ATI Celebrates Dev’t Partners for 15 Years of Supporting Ethiopia’s Agricultural Growth

Addis Ababa, May 9, 2026 — The Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Institute has recognized its development partners for their contributions to transforming Ethiopia’s agriculture sector over the past 15 years.

At a recognition dinner held Thursday at the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel, government officials, international partners, and farmers gathered to reflect on years of collaboration that have helped improve agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods across the country.

Speaking at the event, Semereta Sewasew said Ethiopia’s agricultural progress has been driven by partnerships built on more than just financial support.

 

“Your contributions have gone beyond financing by strengthening institutions, fostering innovation, and advancing sustainable and inclusive growth for millions of Ethiopians,” she said.

She added that agriculture continues to play a vital role in Ethiopia’s economy, supporting livelihoods, strengthening food security, creating jobs, and boosting exports.

ATI Director General Mandefro Nigussie said the institute’s achievements would not have been possible without consistent support from development partners.

 

According to him, ATI has reached nearly five million smallholder farmers and launched more than 60 innovative projects aimed at improving Ethiopia’s food systems and agricultural value chains.

The event also featured an exhibition highlighting farmers whose lives have improved through ATI-led initiatives.

During the ceremony, ATI awarded recognition certificates to 14 development partners for their role in supporting Ethiopia’s agricultural transformation efforts.

 

Seven organizations received special recognition for what ATI described as exceptional contributions, including the World Bank, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Mastercard Foundation, the embassies of Denmark and Netherlands, Agence Française de Développement, and Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet.

Closing the event, Semereta said Ethiopia still faces challenges including climate change and market uncertainty, but stressed the importance of continued collaboration to ensure sustainable growth and better livelihoods for farmers.

Formerly known as the Agricultural Transformation Agency, ATI works to accelerate agricultural growth while improving the income and resilience of smallholder farmers across Ethiopia.