ETHIOPIA – Zuqualla Horti PLC, a leading agricultural company in Ethiopia, has launched an innovative hydroponic strawberry farm, boosting the country’s fruit production and sustainability.

The farm, situated in Koka, features a cutting-edge gutter system aimed at increasing strawberry yields while promoting eco-friendly farming practices.

This groundbreaking project was made possible through collaboration with FlevoPlants, Meteor Systems, and Resilience. Together, they introduced advanced hydroponic technology that allows for more efficient strawberry cultivation.

According to Zuqualla Horti PLC, the new gutter system is designed to optimize productivity while significantly reducing water usage.

“The technology we are using is a game-changer for Ethiopian agriculture,” said a representative from Zuqualla. “By incorporating hydroponics, we not only improve crop yields but also lessen the environmental impact through reduced water and pesticide usage.”

The introduction of the hydroponic gutter system is expected to greatly benefit Ethiopia’s economy by increasing the country’s soft fruit exports.

The system’s innovative design improves labor conditions by raising the plants, making it easier for workers to manage them. This results in higher efficiency and greater comfort for the labor force.

“One of the key advantages of this system is its labor-friendly design, which has improved working conditions for our staff,” Zuqualla stated.

“It’s not just about technology—it’s about creating better environments for everyone involved in the process.”

As the hydroponic system improves both productivity and working conditions, the initiative is poised to make a lasting impact on Ethiopia’s agricultural sector.

The country is increasingly becoming a hub for agricultural innovation, thanks in part to partnerships with nations like the Netherlands, which has played a significant role in facilitating projects like this one.

Hydroponics, a soil-free method of growing crops, is becoming increasingly popular worldwide. In fact, the global hydroponics market, valued at around USD 9.5 billion in 2020, is expected to reach USD 17.9 billion by 2026, according to market research.

With its ability to use up to 90% less water than traditional soil farming, hydroponics is especially valuable in regions facing water scarcity.

In Africa, hydroponic farming is gaining traction. For instance, Hydroponics Africa has already deployed over 365 greenhouse units, saved significant amounts of water and supporting increased crop yields.

One World Bank report further notes that hydroponic systems can boost yields by 30-50% compared to traditional methods.

With Zuqualla leading the way, the future of farming in Ethiopia looks promising, both for its people and the environment.

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