To stabilize Ethiopia's economy, the National Coordinator of the Integrated Agro Industry Park Support Project, with the Industry Ministry, Ayalneh Abawa, emphasized the multifaceted importance of integrated agro-industries.
During a live streaming on EBC Addis Ken, Ayalneh Abawa highlighted the government's commitment to addressing the disorganization within the agricultural sector, a challenge that has long hindered growth and development.
Ethiopia's agriculture has faced numerous obstacles, but the government is taking proactive measures to mitigate these issues. "We are striving to curb the problems that have plagued our agricultural sector," Ayalneh stated.
He pointed out that the government has established warehouses and cold storage facilities, which are now available to farmers at affordable prices. This initiative aims to enhance the efficiency of agricultural production and distribution, ultimately benefiting farmers and consumers alike, he added.
The Integrated Agro Industry Park Support Project is designed to create a more organized and productive agricultural landscape.
Abyalneh noted that these efforts are already yielding positive results for farmers, who can now access essential resources to improve their yields and market reach.
According to him, the availability of affordable storage options is particularly crucial in preventing post-harvest losses, which have traditionally been a significant barrier to profitability for Ethiopian farmers.
Sheikh Tofik Kedir, CEO of TK Group Manufacturing and Trade PLC, echoed Ayalneh’s sentiments regarding the government's initiatives.
He praised the extensive efforts made by the government, stating that over 50 per cent of the expansion of the agro-industry park has been funded by public resources.
Tofik encouraged stakeholders to visit the Bole Bulbula Industrial Park to witness firsthand the rapid developments taking place in Ethiopia's agro-industrial sector.
It was noted that as Ethiopia continues to invest in its agricultural infrastructure, the outlook for farmers appears increasingly optimistic.
According to Tofik, the government should continue to double efforts of the “Ethiopia Tamirit” or “ Made In Ethiopia” initiatives and other incentives for the future.
With government support and strategic initiatives in place, the integrated agro-industry is poised to play a pivotal role in driving economic stability and growth in the nation, it was stated in their discussion.
They underscored the commitment to fostering a more organized agricultural framework could ultimately transform the livelihoods of countless farmers across Ethiopia, ensuring a more sustainable future for the country’s agricultural landscape.