President Taye Atske-Selassie has reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to pioneering climate-resilient agriculture and irrigation development, setting a bold example for Africa’s food security transformation.

Speaking at the inaugural international irrigation conference, themed “Cultivating Resilience: Global Perspectives on Irrigation Development and Climate Adaptation,” the President emphasized Ethiopia’s proactive strides in leveraging innovative solutions and regional collaboration to secure sustainable agricultural growth.

He highlighted the nation’s ambitious initiatives, such as the Green Legacy and Bounty of Basket programs, which are enhancing food production through advanced irrigation infrastructure. These efforts have revitalized agricultural productivity, empowered pastoral communities, and strengthened agro-industrial development, creating job opportunities across the country. No

“This event is a pivotal moment--a call to action to address the challenges of food security and climate change through strong resolve and innovative solutions,” President Taye stated, underscoring the importance of strategic investment in sustainable agriculture.

With agriculture sustaining 70% of Africa’s population, the President urged the continent to scale up financing, embrace technology-driven irrigation systems, and foster stronger knowledge-sharing networks. He called for enhanced data literacy, creative financing solutions, and collective leadership to drive agricultural resilience across Africa.

Ethiopia’s leadership in irrigation development aligns with broader continental efforts to mitigate climate change impacts on agriculture. Irrigation and Lowlands Minister Abreham Belay (PhD) echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that erratic rainfall and climate shocks threaten millions of livelihoods. He stressed the need for inclusive policies, technological innovation, and multi-stakeholder collaboration to expand irrigation and ensure long-term agricultural sustainability.

“These projects are not merely feats of construction, but lifelines for our citizens, demonstrating the transformative power of infrastructure when properly aligned with a clear vision for food security and resilience," he added. 

Meanwhile, African Union Commission Deputy Commissioner for Agriculture, Josefa Leonel Correla Sacko, highlighted Africa’s heavy reliance on rain-fed agriculture and the urgent need to expand irrigation, as currently, only 6% of the continent’s arable land is irrigated. She commended Ethiopia’s leadership in reshaping this narrative through impactful policies and infrastructure investments.

The conference served as a call to action for African nations to unite in strengthening agricultural resilience. With Ethiopia leading by example, the continent moves closer to securing a prosperous, food-secure, and climate-adaptive future.