Agricultural Sector Productivity Building Capacity to Ensure Food Sovereignty, Says State Minister

Addis Ababa, April 14, 2026 (ENA) — Agriculture State Minister Fikru Regassa said reform initiatives implemented in Ethiopia’s agricultural sector since the launch of the national reform have significantly boosted productivity and strengthened the nation’s capacity to ensure food sovereignty.

Speaking at a forum underway in Adama, Fikru said the reforms have been instrumental in improving agricultural output while supporting national efforts toward self-reliance in food production.

The forum is being held under the theme “Aid to Productivity” in collaboration with the Ethiopian News Agency and the Ministry of Agriculture.

The state minister said that the reformist government has introduced policy measures aimed at improving agricultural productivity within a diversified economic system.

He observed that, within a relatively short timeframe, the initiatives have significantly enhanced the country’s capacity for import substitution across various sectors, while simultaneously boosting the international competitiveness of its exports.

He further recalled that Ethiopia’s agricultural sector has historically been heavily reliant on rainfall, a dependence that has posed serious challenges to food sovereignty for citizens.

He added that climate change and environmental degradation have deepened vulnerabilities in various districts, leaving many communities increasingly dependent on external assistance.

He explained that policy measures rolled out over a short period—together with the Safety Net Development Program—have helped many citizens transition from subsistence farming to more productive livelihoods by boosting agricultural productivity.

He further said that the productivity gains being cultivated across all agricultural sectors are strengthening Ethiopia’s capacity to safeguard its food sovereignty.

Meanwhile, Seife Derbe, CEO of the Ethiopian News Agency, said the media is working actively to advance a critical agenda for democratic development and broader national progress.

The CEO added that Ethiopian News Agency is collaborating closely with the Ministry of Agriculture to support efforts aimed at ensuring food sovereignty.

He noted that Ethiopia is also moving toward a historic victory that will restore dignity by ending poverty and securing food sovereignty for its people.