SALALE UNIVERSITY

GENERAL TADESE BIRU CAMPUS

COLLEGE OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITY
DEPARTMENT OF AFAN OROMO,LITERATURE AND COMMUNICATION
COURSE TITLE:GEOGRAPHY
GROUP ASSIGMENT
SECION 3

NAME ID NO

1.DESALEGN DUGUMA S20780/14-0

2. GIRUM AMARE S20789/14-0
3.GASHAW MULUGETA S20786/14-0
4. FURNO GIRMA 20785/14-0
5.KETEMA DERESA S20793/14-0
6. HAWI NUGUSE S20773/14-0
SUBMITTED TO:DR GETACHOW
SUBMISSION DATE: 25/11/2016
FITCHE ,OROMIA
 Settlement Types and Patterns

Introduction of settlement types and patterns

Settlements are permanent or semi-permanent human structures that provide shelter and support
for communities. They can be classified into various types and patterns based on factors such as
location, size, population density, and economic activities. Understanding the different types and
patterns of settlements is essential for urban planners, policymakers, and researchers, as it helps
them design and implement strategies to Improve the quality of life for residents and promote
sustainable development. the types of patterns that can be observed in the establishment and
development of settlements in Ethiopia will depend on a range of factors, including the country’s
growing population, changing economic and social conditions, and the need for access to
essential services and infrastructure. By understanding these patterns, policymakers and other
stakeholders can better support the sustainable development and community resilience of
vulnerable populations in Ethiopia.

Types of Settlement
Settlements are places that are inhabited by people more or less on a permanent basis, as
distinct for example from camps, and where people carry out a variety of activities such as
agriculture, manufacturing and commerce. Settlements can be classified into various types based
on factors such as location, size, population density, and economic activities.
Here are some common types of settlements:

Rural Settlement

Rural settlement in Ethiopia refers to the distribution and organization of settlements and
communities in the country’s rural areas. Ethiopia is a predominantly rural country, with the
majority of the population living in small, dispersed settlements and villages.The history and
development of rural settlement in Ethiopia has been shaped by a combination of historical,
cultural, and environmental factors. For example, many rural communities in Ethiopia were
established along ancient trade routes and migration corridors, which helped to shape the
distribution and organization of settlements over time. Additionally, the country’s diverse ethnic
and cultural groups have played a significant role in shaping the character and organization of
rural settlements.Rural settlement in Ethiopia is characterized by a wide range of different
settlement types and sizes, including small villages, larger towns, and urban centers. The
majority of the country’s rural population lives in small, dispersed settlements, often with limited
access to infrastructure and services.

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These settlements are typically organized around traditional agricultural practices and
community-based social and economic structures.In recent years, rural settlement in Ethiopia has
been influenced by a range of factors, including changes in government policies and urbanization
trends.For example, the growth of industry and services, as well as improvements in
transportation and communication networks, have contributed to the growth of larger towns and
urban centers, drawing people away from smaller, more remote rural settlements.

Temporary / Mobile Settlements

The lowlands in most parts of the Rift Valley and peripheral areas, being generally hot and
dry, are characterized by pastoral herding and mobile settlements. The settlements are
mobile because pastoralists have always been searching for new sites for water and pasture
for their livestock. Temporary settlement refers to the establishment of temporary settlements or
camps, often in response to various factors such as natural disasters, conflicts, or economic
opportunities. Temporary settlements can be established in a range of different locations,
including urban areas, rural areas, and remote or wilderness regions.

In Ethiopia, temporary settlements have been established in response to a range of factors,

including natural disasters such as droughts and floods, as well as conflicts and other crises. For
example, during periods of drought or conflict, people may be forced to flee their homes and
establish temporary settlements in safer or more secure locations.Temporary settlements in
Ethiopia can take a range of different forms, including informal camps established by displaced
populations, as well as more formal settlements established by government or humanitarian
organizations. These settlements can provide a range of essential services, including shelter,
food, water, and healthcare, as well as protection and support for vulnerable populations.

Permanent Settlements

Permanent settlement refers to the establishment of permanent, long-term settlements or

communities, often in response to various factors such as economic opportunities, infrastructure
development, or government policies. Permanent settlements can be established in a range of
different locations, including urban areas, rural areas, and remote or wilderness regions.
Permanent Settlements
Settlements are considered as permanent if there are no frequent changes in their locations.
Most Ethiopian rural highland settlements where crop cultivation is practiced are permanent.
Permanent settlements are of two types. One of them is scattered (also called diffused or
dispersed), while the other one is known as grouped/ clustered or nucleated. In areas of
dispersed settlements homesteads are separated by relatively long distances which could be
associated with individual land tenure and desire of people to live near to their farm
holdings.In Ethiopia, permanent settlement has been driven by a combination of historical,
cultural, and economic factors.

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For example, many permanent settlements in Ethiopia were established along ancient trade
routes and migration corridors, which helped to shape the distribution and organization of
settlements over time.

Island settlement

Island settlement refers to the establishment of settlements or communities on islands or in

coastal areas, often in response to various factors such as economic opportunity, infrastructure
development, or environmental conditions. These settlements can provide essential services and
support for vulnerable populations, as well as promote sustainable development and community
resilience. In Ethiopia, island settlement has been driven by a combination of historical,
economic, and environmental factors, as well as by the country’s growing tourism and fishing
industries. For example, many island settlements in Ethiopia were established in response to a
need for access to marine resources, tourism opportunities, and other economic activities in
specific coastal regions, particularly in the country’s southern and western regions. Island
settlements in Ethiopia can take a range of different forms, including small island communities,
larger island cities, and island extensions of existing formal settlements. These settlements can
provide essential services and support for vulnerable populations, as well as promote sustainable
development and community resilience. However, island settlement can also present a range of
challenges and risks, including overcrowding, inadequate access to services, and increased
vulnerability to disease and other health issues. Additionally, island settlement can be difficult to
sustain over the long term, and may not provide the same level of stability, security, and
economic opportunity as permanent or planned settlements. To address the challenges and
opportunities of island settlement in Ethiopia, the government and other stakeholders have
pursued a range of policies and initiatives, including investments in infrastructure and services,
as well as efforts to promote sustainable development and community resilience. By taking a
more balanced and inclusive approach to urban and rural development, Ethiopia can help to
ensure that the needs and aspirations of vulnerable populations are addressed, while also
promoting long-term stability, security, and prosperity.

urban settlement

Urban settlement refers to the establishment of permanent or temporary settlements in urban or

metropolitan areas. These settlements are often characterized by a high level of infrastructure,
services, and economic opportunity, as well as a diverse and cosmopolitan population. In
Ethiopia, urban settlement has been driven by a combination of historical, cultural, and economic
factors. Urban settlements are characterized by high population density, diverse economic
activities, and a wide range of amenities and services. They can be further classified into
different types, such as:

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Cities: Large urban centers with a diverse range of industries, services, and cultural attractions.

Towns: Smaller urban areas with a more limited range of amenities and services.

Suburbs: Residential areas located on the periphery of cities or towns, characterized by low-
density housing and easy access to urban centers.

Tribal or Indigenous Settlements

These settlements are typically found in remote or underserved areas and are home to indigenous
communities. They often have a strong cultural and spiritual connection to the land and may
have traditional structures and ways of life.

Nomadic Settlements

Nomadic settlements are characterized by a lack of permanent structures and a mobile lifestyle.
They often consist of tents or temporary shelters and are adapted to a nomadic lifestyle, which
may involve herding, hunting, or gathering.

Informal or Slum Settlements

Informal settlements are typically found in urban areas and are characterized by inadequate
infrastructure, overcrowding, and limited access to basic services. They often lack proper
sanitation, housing, and other essential amenities.These are just a few examples of the different
types of settlements found around the world. The specific characteristics and features of
settlements can vary greatly depending on factors such as climate, geography, culture, and
economic activities.

mountain settlement

Mountain settlement refers to the establishment of settlements or communities in mountainous or

highland environments, often in response to various factors such as cultural, social, or
environmental conditions. These settlements can provide essential services and support for
vulnerable populations, as well as promote sustainable development and community resilience.In
Ethiopia, mountain settlement has been driven by a combination of historical, cultural, and
environmental factors, as well as by the country’s diverse ethnic and cultural groups. For
example, many mountain settlements in Ethiopia were established in response to a need for
access to land, water, and other resources in specific mountainous regions, particularly in the
country’s northern and eastern regions. Mountain settlements in Ethiopia can take a range of
different forms, including small mountain communities, larger mountain cities, and mountain
extensions of existing formal settlements. These settlements can provide essential services and
support for vulnerable populations, as well as promote sustainable development and community
resilience.

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 summary of settlement types and patterns

Settlements are permanent or semi structures that provide shelter and support for communities.
They can be classified into various types and patterns based on factors such as location, size,
population density, and economic activities. Some common types and patterns of settlements
include rural settlements, urban settlements (such as cities, towns, and suburbs), tribal or
indigenous settlements, nomadic settlements, and informal or slum settlements. Each type of
settlement has its own unique characteristics and features, shaped by factors such as climate,
geography, culture, and economic activities. Understanding the different types and patterns of
settlements is essential for urban planners, policymakers, and researchers, as it helps them design
and implement strategies to improve the quality of life for residents and promote sustainable
development.

conclusion of settlement types and patterns

In conclusion, settlements play a crucial role in human society by providing shelter, support, and
a sense of community. They can be classified into various types and patterns based on factors
such as location, size, population density, and economic activities. Understanding the different
types and patterns of settlements is essential for urban planners, policymakers, and researchers,
as it helps them design and implement strategies to improve the quality of life for residents and
promote sustainable development. By studying settlement types and patterns, we can gain
insights into human behavior, cultural practices, and the impact of environmental and economic
factors on community development.

Reference

Ministry of Mines. (2014). The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia Ministry Of

Mines and
World Bank Group. Strategic Assessment of the Ethiopian Mineral Sector Final Report.
Ministry of Mines and Energy. (2015). National report on mining. Addis Ababa.
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Ministry of Urban Development & Housing. (2015). National Urban Development Spatial Plan,
National Urban Systems Study - Final Report. Lyon.: Egis International in association
with IAU –Id F & Urban Lyon.
Mohr, P.A. (1960). The Geology of Ethiopia. Addis Ababa: Addis Ababa University College
Press.
Pause wang, a. S. (1990). Ethiopia Rural Development Options.
Tegene Teka , & Tennassie Nicola. (1984). Rural Poverty Alleviation in Ethiopia.
UNIDO. (2018). Industrial Park Development in Ethiopia Case Study Report.
W., F. M. (2016). Understanding Ethiopia: Geology and Scenery. Switzerland: Springer
International Publishing.
Weldesilassie, A. B. (2017). Study on Industrial Park Development: Issues, Practices and
Lessons for Ethiopia. EDRI Research Report 29.
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