US Agricultural Agency Opens Office in Ethiopia to Boost Production, Productivity

Addis  Ababa  April  24/ 2019 The largest US global company solely dedicated to agriculture, Corteva Agriscience, aims to support the Government of Ethiopia in making the agriculture sector more efficient and  innovative so that output is maximized and farmers are more successful, Africa and Middle East Company President of Bajwa said.

Corteva Agriscience, which targets to increase production and productivity, was officially inaugurated here today.

Speaking during the occasion, U.S Ambassador to Ethiopia Michael Raynor said the world-class capacity of Corteva Agriscience brings increasing agricultural output for the benefit of both producers and consumers.

Raynor noted that Corteva's engagement will bring continued gain in meeting Ethiopia's food security and humanitarian needs while supporting many Ethiopians on their path to self-reliance.

According to him, the company's commitment to Ethiopia's agriculture development also means commitment to job creation, broader economic agenda and lasting prosperity.

He further stated that the company's commitment to Ethiopia is the latest example of growing interest from U.S. businesses in this country.

“At this particular moment, when the future of Ethiopia has never been full of promise and potential, I am very excited to see what the ever-growing collaboration of U.S., Ethiopia, and high-quality U.S. firms like Corteva will bring,” Raynor underlined.

Agricultural Transformation Agency Senior Production and Productivity Director, Chimdo Anchala said agricultural production is much less than expected despite the a great potential of the country. 

 Chimdo  pointed out that advancement in seed technology and seed industry remain to be the major challenges in Ethiopia as the majority of Ethiopian farmers are still forced to use local and traditional varieties.

Corteva will play critical role in improving production and productivity, he underscored.