Surface runoff and soil erosion were studied in the Keleta Watershed in Ethiopia using the SWAT model. The model accurately predicted surface runoff and soil erosion rates. Areas with clay soils, agriculture, and steep slopes had high runoff. Soil loss was estimated at 4.3 tons per hectare per year, with most areas at low or moderate risk. Only a small portion of the watershed had high erosion rates. Soil loss was linked to rainfall and runoff. The study shows that the SWAT model is useful for assessing soil erosion and planning land management in Ethiopia.