Council Refers Proclamations on Extension Services, Ecosystem Payments to HPR

Addis Ababa, May 21, 2025 (ENA)—The Council of Ministers has referred two draft proclamations regarding agricultural extension services and ecosystem service payments to the House of People's Representatives (HPR).

In its 45th regular session convened virtually today, the council first discussed the Draft Proclamation on Multi-Stakeholder Agricultural Extension Services and Administration.

The proposed legislation aims to revolutionize the delivery of agricultural extension services in Ethiopia which used to be exclusively provided by the government.  

In response to the evolving demands of the agricultural sector, the draft proclamation seeks to establish a framework that encourages participation from non-governmental organizations, the private sector, cooperatives, and professional associations.

 

Following extensive deliberation, the council unanimously agreed to refer the draft proclamation to the House of People’s Representatives for further review.

 Next, the council delved into the Draft Proclamation on Ecosystem Service Payments, which introduces a much-needed legal framework for the implementation of ecosystem service fees.

 Currently, the absence of such a framework has led to inconsistencies in how these payments are applied across various institutions.

 

 The draft proclamation endeavors to foster coordinated participation among federal and regional bodies, as well as private and non-governmental actors, it was learned.

 After an in-depth discussion, the council also decided to refer this draft proclamation to the House of People’s Representatives.