Addis Ababa: Ethiopia’s remarkable strides in wheat production underscore the nation’s potential to harness and maximize its agricultural development capacity, according to agricultural resource experts.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, over the past six years, Ethiopia has shifted focus in wheat production, moving away from rain-dependent farming to extensive summer cultivation. This shift has led to a significant boost in summer harvests, marking an impressive transformation in the sector.
Ethiopia’s recent ability to not only eliminate its need for imported wheat but also begin exporting its surplus reflects the success of its national economic reform plan. This achievement is a significant marker of the country’s progress in reducing import reliance and generating revenue through exports.
Efforts are also underway to expand technology access, mechanization, and agricultural inputs, aiming to increase yields that enhance food security for citizens. This commitment has gained attention from internatio
nal researchers and policymakers, including those at the World Food Policy Institute and experts on arid regions, who have highlighted Ethiopia’s potential to elevate its agricultural performance.
Speaking to ENA, Dr. Nicholas Minot, one of the experts, emphasized Ethiopia’s potential to supply a variety of high-quality grains, including wheat, to international markets, given its remarkable advancements in the sector. He noted that Ethiopia’s current initiative in wheat production not only strengthens its food security but also plays a vital role in resource development.
The nation’s capacity to cultivate wheat beyond the traditional planting season offers farmers significant economic opportunities, contributing to income growth within the agricultural sector. Recognizing the need for further improvement, the experts advocate for continued investment in agricultural research and expanded mechanization. This approach, as underscored by Dr. Girma Tesfahun, aims to bolster Ethiopia’s agricultural contributions
to economic growth and sustainability across other sectors.
Moreover, Ethiopia’s commitment to increasing agricultural productivity aligns with its efforts to secure food self-sufficiency, reflecting a robust preparedness for ongoing research and innovation in farming practices. In his recent address to the nation’s joint parliamentary assembly, President Taye Atske Selassie highlighted the government’s achievements in agricultural productivity by harvesting 700 million quintals of major crops during the concluded budget year. He commended the country’s impressive achievements in wheat production and noted that this success serves as a model of growth and learning in the agricultural sector.