Harnessing Local Agricultural Inputs for Sustainable Production, Commercialization, and Utilization
On May 31, 2024, the UPSCALE partner Andargachew Detebo from the Institute for Sustainable Development (ISD) had the opportunity to participate in the event in Adama, Ethiopia, at the SAA Annual Meeting with the theme “Harnessing Local Agricultural Inputs for Sustainable Production, Commercialization, and Utilization”. This meeting gathered key stakeholders to discuss sustainable agricultural practices. Mr Detebo represented the UPSCALE project and Push-Pull technology, which captured the attention of many attendees.
Government Endorsement
Country Director of SAA Ethiopia, Dr Fantahun Mengistu warmly welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of promoting local agricultural inputs through a regenerative approach. By emphasizing SAA’s long-standing commitment to enhancing agricultural production in Ethiopia, he stated “For the past 30 years, SAA has been at the forefront of supporting agriculture in Ethiopia.” His speech pointed out that leveraging local resources and empowering farmers will achieve sustainable agricultural practices.
Mr Abdulsemed Abdu, representing the State Minister of Agriculture and Horticulture Development, remarked: “SAA has been one of our best partners for the last three decades, and we are confident that they will play a significant role in helping us achieve the goals of Ethiopia’s 10-in-10 national program.” His endorsement highlighted the crucial collaboration between SAA and the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA).
potlight on Innovation
The event showcased various sustainable agricultural practices, including biochar technology, vermicomposting production and supply, and the commercialization of organic inputs. Mr Detebo highlighted the importance of addressing current food security issues, emphasizing that Push-Pull technology aligns with the MoA’s motto, “Beyond Production.” The conference brought together over 100 participants, including 17 scientific experts, 7 organic fertilizer producers, 8 civil society members, policymakers from the MoA, investors, customers, and farmers.
Looking Ahead
The positive feedback from participants and the expressed interest from SASAKAWA Ethiopia to partner with the ISD-UPSCALE project marked the event as a milestone in promoting sustainable agriculture in Ethiopia. Gathering crucial stakeholders and discussing the problems will create the opportunity to, step by step, generate the plans and program which will result in sustainable and safe agricultural production, food safety and household security.
