Ethiopia Accelerates Agricultural Mechanization Under ‘Medemer’ Strategy: Minister Addisu

Addis Ababa, March 22, 2026 (ENA) —Agricultural mechanization has become a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s ‘Medemer’ state strategy, signaling a decisive shift toward a technology-driven farming economy, according to the Ministry of Agriculture.

On Sunday, the Ministry distributed mechanization equipment valued at 2.32 billion Birr to all regional states and the Dire Dawa City Administration, marking one of the largest coordinated efforts to modernize Ethiopia’s agricultural sector.

 

The package includes 63 tractors, 71 walking tractors, 150 rice threshers, four egg incubators and hatchers, five groundwater pumps, 460 solar-powered pumping units, 15 field vehicles, 243 motorcycles, and 980 computers, reflecting a comprehensive approach to upgrading both field operations and administrative capacity.

Addisu Arega, Minister of Agriculture, said the initiative is part of a broader agenda to transform Ethiopian farming from subsistence-based methods into a modern, efficient, and competitive sector.

 

"Advancing agricultural mechanization is a top priority of the Medemer government," Minister Arega stated during the handover ceremony.

He added that expanding access to modern equipment is essential to move beyond traditional farming practices.

The initiative, supported by the Government of South Korea and key development programs, leverages partnerships with the Food Systems Resilience Program, Sustainable Land Management Program, Emergency Locust Response Project, Productive Safety Net Program, and the Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Institute.

According to the minister, modern equipment will boost productivity, improve product quality, strengthen Ethiopia’s competitiveness in international markets, and enhance food security nationwide.

 

He emphasized that agriculture remains a primary livelihood for millions, particularly youth and women, making mechanization crucial for inclusive development.

Replacing labor-intensive methods like oxen-drawn ploughing with modern technology is expected to reduce workload, increase efficiency, and minimize post-harvest losses.

Beyond mechanization, the Ministry is prioritizing irrigation expansion, livestock breed improvement, biotechnology adoption, poultry distribution, and enhancements in animal health and feed systems.

 

Minister Addisu  urged regional administrations to use the distributed equipment effectively, with strong oversight and accountability, to maximize its impact on agricultural production and productivity.