EHPEA trains flower farms to combat False Codling Moth threat

ETHIOPIA – The Ethiopian Horticulture Producer Exporters Association (EHPEA) is intensifying its efforts to protect the country’s flower industry from the devastating False Codling Moth (FCM).

EHPEA has launched a comprehensive training program aimed at farm managers and crop protection staff to equip them with essential skills and knowledge.

The training sessions cover several critical areas, including the national importance of controlling FCM, identification of the pest, understanding its biology and lifecycle, and implementing effective management strategies.

Participants also learn how to apply the national FCM protocol, ensuring a unified approach across the industry.

FCM is a serious pest that attacks over 70 different crops, including roses, which are a significant export product for Ethiopia.

The European Union (EU) classifies FCM as a quarantine pest, which mandates that 25% of Ethiopian roses be inspected before entering the EU market.

This stringent inspection requirement poses a potential threat to trade between Ethiopia and the Netherlands, a major importer of Ethiopian flowers.

The flower industry is a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s economy. Over the past year, flower exports generated USD 432 million USD, contributing 20% to the nation’s GDP and providing employment for more than 200,000 people.

Given its economic significance, protecting the flower industry from pests like FCM is crucial for sustaining the livelihoods of many Ethiopians.

The efforts to combat FCM have been bolstered by strong collaboration between EHPEA, member farms, and the Ethiopian Agricultural Authority (EAA).

This cooperative approach has been effective in keeping FCM interceptions to a minimum, with only three incidents reported in the past year.

This low interception rate highlights the commitment and effectiveness of Ethiopia’s flower industry in addressing this emerging threat.

By equipping farm staff with the necessary tools and knowledge, EHPEA is ensuring that Ethiopia’s flower industry can continue to thrive despite the challenges posed by pests like the False Codling Moth.

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