PM Abiy Inaugurates Welmel River Irrigation Dev’t Project in Bale Zone

Addis Ababa, October 18, 2025 (ENA)—Inaugurated today by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, the Welmel River Irrigation Development Project in Delo-Mena Woreda of the Bale Zone in Ethiopia’s Oromia Region is designed to enhance agricultural productivity and ensuring food sovereignty through the efficient utilization of the river for irrigation development.

“By establishing a sustainable surface irrigation system, the project seeks to improve the livelihoods and resilience of local communities that have long depended on rain-fed agriculture,” Prime Minister Abiy wrote on his social media channel.

The irrigation development project was initiated by the Ministry of Irrigation and Lowlands, it was learnt.

“Upon full operation, the project will provide reliable irrigation for 9,687.45 hectares of farmland, supporting around 20,000 farming households. This is expected to substantially enhance agricultural productivity, increase resilience to drought, and create new employment opportunities within the community,” the prime minister elaborated.

Beyond these economic impacts, the project contributes to improved food sovereignty by strengthening local water management institutions, promoting community ownership, and ensuring the sustainable use of the Welmel River’s resources, Abiy further stated.