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Agriculture

Unlocking Ethiopia's Livestock and Fisheries Potential

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

As part of its efforts to transform its agricultural sector and ensure food security, the Ethiopian government has launched the 'Bounty of the Basket' (Ye Lemat Tirufat) initiative, a nationwide program aimed at boosting the production of dairy, poultry, eggs, honey, fish, and meat. The initiative, launched in November 2022 by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, has already shown tangible progress, with small-holders now embracing more organized, clustered farming models. The government has also introduced incentives for investors, including duty-free importation of inputs, tax holidays, and support in accessing markets.

Key Takeaways:

  • The 'Bounty of the Basket' initiative is a nationwide program launched in November 2022 by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to boost the production of dairy, poultry, eggs, honey, fish, and meat.
  • The program aims to transform Ethiopia's agricultural sector and enhance its role in ensuring food security, nutrition, and job creation.
  • The government has given high priority to the livestock and fisheries sectors, recognizing their considerable economic and nutritional importance, as well as their potential for job creation.
  • Since the launch of the initiative, tangible progress has been made, with new clusters such as milk villages, honey villages, and poultry hubs being established.
  • The government has introduced a range of incentives for investors, including duty-free importation of inputs, tax holidays ranging from three to five years, and support in accessing markets.
  • The Ethiopian Livestock and Fisheries Investment Handbook has been launched to offer comprehensive information about the sector's opportunities, potential, and incentives to both domestic and foreign investors.
  • The Agricultural Production Contract Proclamation, passed two years ago, is another critical step in linking livestock producers with slaughterhouse companies.

Statistics:

  • Ethiopia ranks fifth in goat and sheep numbers globally.
  • The country has the largest livestock population in Africa.

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