In a pioneering initiative aimed at enhancing food security and economic resilience, the Ethiopian government is leading the expansion of wheat cluster farming.
The Ministry of Agriculture of FDRE asserts that the government has been diligently focusing on wheat production, productivity, and competitiveness beyond mere food self-sufficiency.
In an exclusive interview with EBC Amharic, the State of the Ministry of Agriculture, Dr. Melese Mekonnen, announced that the introduction of wheat cluster farming, an integrated farming system that fosters collaboration among farmers, has proven to be productive.
It has not only improved sustainability but also reduced the country's reliance on imports, which cost Ethiopia approximately 700 to 800 USD annually.
State Minister Melese further declared that this innovative approach is not only revolutionizing local agriculture but is also being recognized as a potential model for other nations facing similar challenges.
The State Minister further conveyed that as Ethiopia showcases the successes of its wheat cluster farming initiative, neighboring countries are taking notice.
Agricultural experts from Kenya, Sudan, and Somalia have visited Ethiopian farms to gain firsthand knowledge of the cluster model, the State Minister highlighted.
Local farmers residing in the Oromia Region, particularly in the North Shewa Zone, have expressed their satisfaction with the benefits of participating in cluster farming activities in the region.
They are delighted that the government's support for increased wheat production not only enhances their food security but also stimulates local economies.
With surplus wheat available, communities are discovering new opportunities for processing and distribution, which in turn create jobs and foster entrepreneurship. Ethiopia, renowned for its diverse agricultural landscape, has encountered significant challenges in achieving self-sufficiency in staple crops. With a population exceeding 120 million and a growing demand for wheat, the government has acknowledged the pressing need for a strategic overhaul.