June 3/2024

Today, H.E. Dr. Abraham Belay, Minister of Irrigation and Lowlands, and H.E. Dr. Birhanu Lenjiso, State Minister of Irrigation Development Sector, welcomed Mr. Giovanni Munoz, Chief of the East and Southern Africa Service, Farayi Zimudzi, FAO Representative in Ethiopia, and delegates to discuss ongoing areas of engagement. Key topics included receiving technical support for our upcoming flagship projects and developing irrigation codes and standards. Excitingly, #FAO has agreed to consider supporting the integration of GIS-based MIS systems into our flagship programs, enhancing our data management capabilities. The delegates also explored other collaboration areas, such as support for irrigation design, construction, operation, and maintenance, as well as assistance with irrigation investment analysis and tariff settings.

This partnership with FAO marks a significant milestone in our efforts to enhance agricultural infrastructure and sustainability.

We are thrilled to announce our partnership with #UNOPs. This historic agreement was entered into by H.E. Aisha Mohammed Mussa (Eng.), (Minister of Irrigation and Lowlands), and Mrs. Worknesh Mekonnen (Director, Ethiopia Multi-Country Office and UNOPs Representative to AU). This collaboration will pave the way for transformative development in the Ethiopian Lowlands, unlocking the untapped resources and ushering in a new era of prosperity and opportunity. Both teams will work hand in hand to mobilize resources for technical assistance, conducting comprehensive feasibility studies, pilots, and scaleups. These initiatives are crucial in identifying and capitalizing on the vast potential of the Ethiopian Lowlands. Both #MILLs and UNOPS share a common vision that the Ethiopian Lowlands are lands of immense opportunity, not scarcity.

Together, we are determined to harness these abundant resources and drive forward the development of our lowlands, with a special focus on irrigation to ensure a flourishing future for our communities.

June 26, 2023, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – In a significant milestone towards achieving a sustainable and climate-resilient future, the Ministry of Irrigation and Lowlands, Ethiopia (MILLs) has joined forces with renowned international non-profit organization, Heifer International. Ethiopia, with its diverse landscape and rich agricultural heritage, recognizes the need for robust initiatives that not only boost productivity but also enhance the resilience of communities in the face of a changing climate. This collaboration with Heifer International marks a new chapter in Ethiopia’s journey towards self-sufficiency and sustainable development.

During the event held at MILLs, an MOU was signed between H.E. Eng. Aisha Mohammed Mussa, Minister of Irrigation and Lowlands and Surita Sandosham, President & CEO of Hiefer International, marking the beginning of this exciting partnership.

Representatives from both parties shared their respective perspectives:
“As we embark on the critical journey towards a sustainable and climate-resilient Ethiopia, our alliance with Heifer International represents a significant benchmark. Jointly, we are committed to developing a comprehensive lowland and pastoral development strategy, reinforcing the effectiveness of our dairy value chains, and driving commercially viable irrigation programs led by the private sector. This partnership goes beyond traditional collaboration; it serves as a beacon of transformative progress, illuminating our steadfast pursuit for a food-sovereign Ethiopia”
H.E. Eng. Aisha Mohammed Mussa

”What differentiates Heifer is our core values that prioritize the smallholder farmer and our dedication to delivering sustainable and marketable solutions tailored to their needs. Our focus is on sustainability and scalability, ensuring long-term impact. We fully embrace the holistic approach advocated by the Minister and remain committed to its implementation.”
Surita Sandosham President and CEO of Heifer International