AU Official Says Ethiopia Sets New Benchmark for Africa in Digital Agriculture

Addis Ababa, December 12, 2025— Ethiopia’s rapid progress in digitalizing its agricultural sector is setting a new standard for African nations, African Union Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Environment (ARBE), Moses Vilakati, told ENA.

In an exclusive interview, the Commissioner emphasized that digital agriculture is essential for transforming Africa’s farming systems and ensuring long-term food security.

By integrating tools such as digital soil mapping, data-driven farm management, and precision resource use, countries can boost productivity, increase crop yields, and reduce environmental pressure through more efficient use of water and fertilizers.

Vilakati praised Ethiopia’s momentum in adopting these technologies, describing the country’s digital agricultural transition as “impressive” and instrumental in its journey toward food self-sufficiency.

Supported by strong government commitment and capacity-building through technical and vocational training programs, Ethiopia is modernizing its farming practices and achieving significant gains, particularly in wheat production.

“Ethiopia's progress in digitalizing its agricultural processes is remarkable and stands as a model for other nations,” he stated.

Currently, Ethiopia has launched the second phase of its flagship Agricultural Commercialization Clusters program, known as ACCII (Agricultural Commercialization through Climate-Smart and Inclusive Innovations).

 The program integrates a significant digital agriculture component to modernize the sector and improve market access for smallholder farmers

The Commissioner highlighted that the country’s experience demonstrates how digital tools can strengthen food security, enhance sustainability, and reshape traditional agriculture, positioning Ethiopia as a benchmark for other African nations striving for similar transformation.

He added, “Agricultural transformation is enabling Ethiopia to become self-reliant, especially evident in the surge of wheat production.

This is exactly the kind of progress Africa needs,” noting that the continent now looks to Ethiopia as an inspiring example of success.