Ethiopia’s wheat production has experienced a remarkable surge in the 2023/24 harvesting period, reaching a record 230 million quintals. According to the Office of the Prime Minister (PMO), smallholder farmers cultivated 3.6 million hectares, yielding 123 million quintals, while 2.9 million hectares of irrigated land produced 107.7 million quintals. This impressive growth reflects the combined efforts of government support, improved seed varieties, and enhanced agricultural practices.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed highlighted the importance of expediting the harvest process nationwide due to the abundant yield this season. He also emphasized the need to prepare for the upcoming summer wheat cultivation, underlining the government’s commitment to sustaining this growth. In comparison, during the 2019/2020 period, smallholder farmers produced only 54 million quintals of wheat, demonstrating the remarkable leap in productivity over the past four years.
The surge in wheat production in Ethiopia can be attributed to several key factors:
- Government Policies and Support: The Ethiopian government has implemented supportive policies aimed at increasing agricultural productivity, including subsidies on seeds, fertilizers, and improved access to credit.
- Infrastructure Development: The expansion of irrigation systems has been crucial, with 2.9 million hectares of land now under irrigation, contributing significantly to the increased yield.
- Adoption of Improved Varieties: The use of high-yielding and drought-tolerant wheat varieties has enabled farmers to achieve better productivity even under challenging environmental conditions.
- Extension Services: Technical assistance and extension services provided by government agencies have helped farmers adopt best practices and modern technologies, improving crop management and yields.
This growth is not just a victory for food security within Ethiopia but also an opportunity for the country to become more self-sufficient in wheat production. The Ethiopian government’s focus on sustainable agricultural practices and continued support for farmers is crucial for maintaining this momentum.
Ethiopia’s significant rise in wheat production is a testament to the effectiveness of government policies and farmer initiatives. The expansion of irrigated land, the use of improved seed varieties, and targeted support for smallholder farmers have transformed Ethiopia’s agricultural landscape. As the nation prepares for the summer wheat cultivation, continued investment in agricultural development will be essential to sustain this growth and ensure long-term food security.
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