ETHIOPIA – Tewodros Zewdie, Executive Director of the Ethiopian Horticulture Exporters and Producers Association (EHPEA), sees a bright future for Ethiopia’s horticulture industry.
Ethiopia offers a unique environment for horticultural production and export, thanks to abundant sunshine, ample labor, and low energy costs.
“Ethiopia stands out as a unique country for the production and export of horticultural crops, boasting both competitive and comparative advantages,” Tewodros Zewdie told Ethiopian Herald in an executive interview.
Ethiopia’s strategic location near the Middle East and Europe, combined with the expansive reach of Ethiopian Airlines, enhances its export capabilities. The country’s rich water resources and diverse agro-ecology also contribute to its strength in horticulture.
“Ethiopia is very rich both in surface and ground water that is why it is dubbed as ‘The Water Tower of East Africa,” Zewdie noted.
Ethiopia ranks as the second-largest exporter of cut flowers in Africa, following Kenya. The horticulture sector has grown rapidly over the past 15 to 20 years, offering significant potential for fruit and vegetable production. The sector employs nearly 200,000 people, with women making up over 75% of the workforce.
“One of the advantages of the horticulture sector is its ability to create jobs for skilled and non-skilled compatriots, especially youth,” Zewdie explained.
The sector faces challenges such as infrastructure issues, power outages, and the need for better access to finance and inputs. The EHPEA works closely with the government to address these challenges and improve conditions for investors.
“We are closely collaborating with government institutions to address infrastructure issues, such as access roads and electricity connectivity,” said Zewdie.
The use of chemicals in the horticulture industry has raised concerns about environmental impact. However, Zewdie emphasized that all chemicals used are regulated internationally and nationally. There is also a growing shift towards using biological agents and integrated pest management to reduce traditional pesticide use.
“There is a noticeable shift in the Rift Valley towards biological control agents and integrated pest management,” he added.
Ethiopia’s horticulture industry is expanding its export destinations, including Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. However, there is still much untapped potential.
To maximize this potential, the EHPEA is advocating for a proactive approach, including the establishment of horticultural parks and better collaboration between academic institutions and the private sector. “Reviewing the input system in the country is essential, as we currently rely on importing inputs from other countries,” Zewdie mentioned.
The EHPEA also focuses on capacity building, providing training for thousands of workers to meet international standards. Quality compliance is a priority, and the association works with various institutions to ensure high standards in production. “We are building the capacity of our members on quality issues,” said Zewdie.
By addressing current challenges and leveraging its natural advantages, Ethiopia can solidify its position as a leading player in the global horticulture market. “I believe that the future of Ethiopia lies in horticulture,” Zewdie affirmed.
Recent developments and strategic initiatives
Ethiopia launched a 10-year National Horticulture Development and Marketing strategy in 2017 aimed at positioning the country as a major horticulture exporter. This strategy seeks to address existing gaps and enhance the sector’s growth.
Additionally, the Ministry of Agriculture reported that horticulture exports generated over $650 million in revenue during the last fiscal year, with a target of USD 731.38 million for the upcoming period.
The floriculture sector, with 74 active flower farms, is particularly noteworthy, making Ethiopia the second-largest flower producer in Africa.
The country also has 19 operators in large-scale fruit production and 31 vegetable-exporting farms. These numbers highlight the vast potential for further development within the sector.
The Ethiopian horticulture industry is not only a source of economic growth but also a testament to the country’s potential in the global market. As the sector continues to evolve, it promises a bright future for both the industry and the nation.
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