In a pivotal virtual meeting today, the Council of Ministers convened for its 45th regular session, resulting in the unanimous approval of two significant resolutions aimed at enhancing agricultural practices and establishing a legal framework for ecosystem service fees.
These decisions are expected to foster collaboration among various stakeholders and streamline processes that have long been hindered by inconsistent regulations.
The first resolution addresses the urgent need for reform in agricultural extension services. Historically, these services have been solely government-run, limiting the potential for innovation and responsiveness to the evolving needs of farmers.
Recognising the growing demand for more comprehensive agricultural support, the Council discussed a draft proclamation that would introduce multi-stakeholder agricultural extension services.
This new framework aims to integrate the efforts of non-governmental organisations, the private sector, cooperatives, and professional associations into the agricultural extension landscape.
“By diversifying the sources of agricultural extension services, we can better meet the needs of our farmers and ensure sustainable agricultural practices,” said the Press Secretariate from the Office of the Prime Minister.
The proclamation is designed to establish clear procedures that facilitate collaboration among various entities, ultimately leading to improved productivity and sustainability in the agricultural sector.
Following this discussion, the Council unanimously agreed to forward the draft proclamation to the House of People's Representatives of Ethiopia for further consideration.
This step marks a significant move towards modernising agricultural support systems in the country.
The second resolution focuses on the establishment of a legal framework for ecosystem service fees, a critical issue that has been inconsistently managed across different regions and sectors. Currently, there is no cohesive legal structure governing how these fees are implemented, leading to confusion and inefficiencies.
The Council recognised that as environmental concerns grow more pressing, it is essential to create a comprehensive legal framework that encompasses federal and regional institutions, as well as private and non-governmental organisations.
“Implementing a consistent ecosystem service fee system will not only enhance environmental protection but also promote accountability among all stakeholders involved,” the Press Secretariate added.
The proposed framework aims to ensure that all entities contributing to ecosystem services are recognised and compensated accordingly, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.
After thorough deliberation, the Council decided to forward this draft proclamation to the House of People's Representatives as well.
The approval of both resolutions signifies a proactive approach by the government to address pressing issues in agriculture and environmental management.
As these proposals move forward in the legislative process, they hold the potential to transform how agricultural extension services are delivered and establish a sustainable model for ecosystem management.
The Council’s commitment to engaging multiple stakeholders reflects a broader recognition of the interconnectedness of agriculture and environmental health in promoting national development.