EHPEA, OIPDC forge partnership to boost Ethiopia’s agro-industry

ETHIOPIA – The Ethiopian Horticulture Producer Exporters Association (EHPEA) and the Oromia Industrial Parks Development Corporation (OIPDC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at fostering agricultural growth and investment in Ethiopia.

The collaborative framework works towards strengthening the agro-industry’s capacity, establishing value chain linkages, and promoting agro-industry-related initiatives in the Oromia Region.

The focal point of this partnership revolves around the Bulbula Integrated Agro-Industrial Park (Bulbula IAIP) in the Central Eastern Oromia Region, a crucial development contributing to Ethiopia’s transformation into an industry-led economy.

Covering an expansive area of 271.00 hectares, Bulbula IAIP strategically facilitates improved access to agricultural raw materials, simplifying supply chains for farmers and enhancing market connectivity.

During the signing event, EHPEA members were informed of the development status of Bulbula IAIP.

The park, divided into three phases, has completed all projects, and is set to commence full-scale operations as of January 2021.

Over 40 investors have already joined the park, showcasing its growth potential and economic impact.

EHPEA’s involvement in strategic initiatives extends beyond this partnership. Last month, in response to the global challenge posed by the False Codling Moth (FCM), EHPEA collaborated with the Ethiopian Agriculture Authority (EAA) to address the issue in a recent consultative meeting.

The meeting was particularly timely considering the European Food Safety Authority’s (EFSA) scientific report, prompting the EU Commission to implement stricter measures.

Effective May 1st, 2024, the EU Commission increased the inspection percentage for cut flowers exported from Ethiopia from 5% to 25%.

EHPEA, in alignment with EAA directives, emphasized the need for rose growers to rigorously adhere to FCM protocols.

These measures include establishing a comprehensive crop protection strategy, enhancing farm capacity, and implementing a systemic approach to control FCM.

EAA’s stringent controls will be enforced both on-farm sites and at Bole International Airport, underscoring the importance of proactive measures to mitigate FCM risks.

EHPEA has pledged unwavering support for these efforts, encouraging collaboration among all stakeholders to control FCM effectively.

For all the latest fresh produce industry news updates from Africa, the Middle East, and the World, subscribe to our NEWSLETTER, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn, like us on Facebook, and subscribe to our YouTube channel.