Addis ababa: Gadi Muga, a resident of Hamer Woreda in Ethiopia’s Southern region, once struggled with the ravages of extreme climate conditions, including floods and droughts, which made it difficult to sustain her family through traditional agriculture. Her story is not unique, as many in her village and across Ethiopia have faced similar challenges due to unpredictable weather patterns.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, in response to these challenges, the Ethiopian government under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has initiated a climate-resilient farming agenda over the past six years. This includes a significant move towards irrigation-based agriculture to reduce dependency on rain-fed farming, which is vulnerable to climate shocks. This strategic shift is exemplified by the Kuma Irrigation Project, which has transformed the agricultural landscape near Gadi’s village.
Gadi and other local farmers have embraced these developments, moving from subsistence farming to cultivating cash crops and engaging in cluster farming, which allows for multiple harvests each year. Ekale Nater, Head of the Irrigation and Lowlands Development Bureau for the South Ethiopia Region, highlighted that 238 irrigation projects are underway, covering 32,000 hectares, representing a broader movement towards sustainable agriculture.
Ethiopia’s agriculture sector, a major contributor to the national economy, is at the forefront of the country’s climate strategy. Chief Advisor to the Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Getachew Diriba, noted the historical vulnerability of Ethiopian farmers to climate extremes and acknowledged the advancements made towards resilience and sustainability.
The UN Food Systems Senior Program Coordinator, Dr. Khalid Eltaweel, emphasized the visible impact of global climate change on Ethiopia’s agriculture, despite the country’s minimal contribution to the problem. Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Girma Amente, detailed the success of shifting to irrigated agriculture, particularly for staple crops like wheat, which has reduced import needs and led to surplus production.
Modernization efforts in Ethiopia’s agriculture include cluster farming, mechanization, and digital platforms for farmers. The Green Legacy Initiative has also significantly increased forest coverage, earning global recognition.
Ethiopia’s international collaboration efforts in combating climate change are underway, with assistance from UN agencies and exploration of climate finance options. Ethiopia continues to be a model for effective international cooperation in tackling global environmental challenges.