Prime Minister Abiy Highlights Irrigation Expansion as Catalyst for Ethiopia’s Food Sovereignty

Addis Ababa, February 22, 2026 (ENA) –Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to accelerating irrigation development as a central pillar of Ethiopia’s drive toward food sovereignty.

In a social media message shared on his social media channels, the Prime Minister emphasized that expanding the use of available surface and groundwater resources remains a top priority in transforming the country’s agricultural sector.

According to him, areas that once lay unproductive are now being converted into thriving hubs of agricultural activity through strategic irrigation initiatives.

Citing the Bilate River area as a notable example, PM Abiy highlighted the rapid progress of large-scale fruit development projects underway with strong participation from private investors.

These projects, the Premier noted, are reshaping the local agricultural landscape and creating new economic opportunities for surrounding communities.

“The area where the Bilate River is located is a notable example,” the Prime Minister stated.

“Extensive fruit development projects are being carried out with the participation of private investors. This will greatly support the efforts being made to ensure food sovereignty,” he further elaborated.