The Southern Ethiopia Region Industrial Parks Development Corporation (SERIPC) announced the launch of avocado oil production for export at the Dila Agricultural Industrial Park.
A new agro-processing factory in the park built with a Birr 60 million investment, will process avocados for international markets. The factory can process 50,000 avocados daily, yielding over 2,500 liters of oil. The factory has created permanent jobs for 50 people and works with 15,000 farmers through 17 associations. The corporation estimates the park has the potential to create over 100,000 jobs across various industries when fully operational.
SERIPC expects the first avocado oil to be exported to the United States in June. This venture is expected to contribute to Ethiopia’s foreign exchange earnings.
Local farmer associations, such as the Hanjinso Fruit and Vegetable Association with its 62 avocado farmers, are already supplying the factory. The association sees the potential to significantly increase production in the future.
The park’s infrastructure provides access to resources and technology for residents. The corporation also highlighted plans to utilize avocado by-products for animal feed production, minimizing waste.
Source (including image): Ethiopian News Agency
