The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in partnership with the Government of Japan has launched a new initiative to strengthen climate-resilient agriculture and support conflict-affected rural communities in the northern regions of Ethiopia.
The approximately 7.2 million USD will be implemented by FAO, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture in Amhara, Tigray, and Afar regions over four year period, it was learned.
The initiative is aimed to revitalize agricultural livelihood, improve food security, and enhance climate resilience through Farmers Field School (FFS) approach.
By introducing innovative climate-smart agricultural practices that help farmers adapt to extreme weather conditions, restore degraded farmland, and improve crop production, the project will empower farmers.
Speaking on the occasion, Japan Ambassador to Ethiopia, Shibata Hironori, said Japan recognizes that agriculture is one of the most important industries in the county.
Japan’s support in the sector has three major pillars: first, investment in people; second, small-scale farmers’ self-reliance, market-oriented agriculture; and thirdly, rice production.
According to the ambassador, the new project is aligned with these major pillars of the Japan’s assistance.
On her part, FAO Representative in Ethiopia, Farayi Zimudzi, said the project would have a contribution towards the efforts of the Government of Ethiopia in achieving food self-sufficiency.
FAO has been working in partnership with the Government of Ethiopia, focusing on animal health promotion, support to crop production, and income generating activities, she added.
Agriculture Minister Girma Amente, extended his appreciation to FAO, the Government of Japan, and JICA for the support.
According to him, the initiative falls squarely into the government plans and priorities.
“We would like to extend our appreciation to FAO for provision of technical support in areas around food security, nutrition and livelihood improvement.”
Source: FMC
