The Sidama Regional Industrial Parks Development Corporation has announced that six new companies will begin operations at the Yirgalem Integrated Agro-Industrial Park within the next two months. The new ventures will focus on processing various agricultural products, including milk, avocado, honey, and coffee, sourced from local farmers. These processed goods will be supplied to both domestic and international markets.
Iyasu Nejo (PhD), the park’s Deputy Executive Director, confirmed the development, noting that the addition of these six companies will bring the total number of active businesses at the park to nine. This expansion is expected to create new markets for agricultural products and provide job opportunities for both farmers and the youth.
Currently, the park is home to three local and foreign investors who are already engaged in various agricultural sectors. Over the past four years, these companies have generated USD 16.72 million in export revenue. Since the park’s inception, 120,000 jobs have been created.
The park offers a range of services to its businesses, including a treatment facility that mitigates the environmental impact of industrial waste. It also provides essential infrastructure such as electricity, water, and a service center to support the companies.
Spanning 294.5 hectares, the Yirgalem Integrated Agro-Industrial Park can accommodate up to 151 factories.
Source: Addis Zemen
Image source: Ministry of Industry
