The Southern Ethiopia Region is embarking on a significant agricultural initiative, aiming to cover over 856 hectares of land with rice cultivation this season, according to the Regional Agriculture Bureau.
This bold move is part of a broader strategy to boost food security, enhance local economies, and introduce modern farming techniques to local communities.
The official launch of the regional rice seed program took place in Damot Pulasa District, Wolaita Zone, marking a pivotal moment for the region's agricultural sector.
The ceremony was attended by Merhun Fikru (PhD), Deputy Chief of Staff of the Southern Ethiopia Region, Dilla Cluster Coordinator, and Head of the Agriculture Bureau.
Merhun emphasized that the ambitious plan to cultivate over 856 hectares with rice seeds is already underway, reflecting the region’s commitment to agricultural innovation and self-sufficiency.
He also highlighted the success of previous efforts, noting that 564 hectares of rice fields have already been sown in areas with favourable climates.
Encouraged by these positive results, the region is now intensifying its expansion work. “We are focusing on identifying suitable areas for rice production and sharing best practices to ensure that producers benefit fully from this initiative,” the Head stated.
Rice cultivation is being recognized as a critical component in the region’s fight against food insecurity and as a potential driver of economic growth. The program’s launch in the Wolaita Zone is coupled with extensive awareness campaigns among farmers, with a specific target to cultivate 50 hectares of rice fields in the zone this year alone.
For his part, Wolaita Zone Chief Administrator, Petros Woldemariam, underscored the importance of adopting new technologies to increase both the production and productivity of local farmers. “We are committed to integrating innovative agricultural techniques that will transform the sector and improve livelihoods,” he said.
Further detailing the implementation, Daniel Dale (PhD), Deputy Administrator of the Zone and Head of the Agriculture Division, explained that rice seed adaptation efforts have commenced this year in Damot Pulasa District. In Damot Pulasa Woreda specifically, adaptation is underway on 20 hectares, with plans to extend these efforts to additional Woredas as the season progresses.
Local farmers, including Tamrat Ayele and Abraham Baza, expressed their enthusiasm for the opportunity to cultivate rice; a crop previously unfamiliar in their area; using modern technology. “We are excited and ready to work hard to increase rice production and productivity,” they shared, while also calling for continued professional support to ensure the success of the initiative.
It was noted that as the Southern Ethiopia Region rolls out this ambitious rice cultivation program, stakeholders remain optimistic that it will not only strengthen food security but also set a new standard for agricultural development in the area.