Denmark renews commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s climate resilience

ADDIS ABABA-Denmark has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s climate resilience efforts at the “Building Resilience to Climate Change in Ethiopia” conference held on Tuesday.

Danish Ambassador SuneKrogstrup emphasized that since 2012, Denmark has played a crucial role in advancing Ethiopia’s climate-resilient green economy, focusing  on initiatives designed to adapt to and mitigate climate impacts.

Ambassador Krogstrup highlighted Denmark’s involvement in key programs that promote the sustainability of safety net initiatives, deliver humanitarian aid, and enhance climate adaptation strategies. A significant aspect of their support is the promotion of plant-smart agriculture, aimed at modernizing farming practices by reducing reliance on traditional methods, minimizing post-harvest losses, and increasing mechanization. This initiative has successfully improved wheat productivity, helping Ethiopia meet its national demand for this essential crop.

Ethiopia, located in the Horn of Africa, faces significant climate challenges, including severe droughts, floods, and land degradation, which threaten food security for over 78% of its population that relies on agriculture. In response, the Ethiopian government has prioritized climate resilience as a cornerstone of its development strategy, actively working to identify and address climate-related hazards.

Denmark has partnered with Ethiopia on research initiatives aimed at developing effective strategies to mitigate climate change impacts. Ambassador Krogstrup stressed the urgency of the situation, noting that climate change poses significant risks, leading to increased humanitarian needs, job scarcity, and disruptions in food production. Additionally, the country has faced landslides exacerbated by climate conditions, complicating its challenges further.

Danish bilateral cooperation primarily focuses on modernizing the agricultural sector by supporting smallholder farmers. This initiative aims to enhance food security and resilience, particularly for displaced populations and host communities, while fostering climate-resilient livelihoods in forested areas. Furthermore, Denmark remains committed to strengthening governance and promoting human rights in Ethiopia, ensuring a holistic approach to development in the face of ongoing climate challenges.

BY TSEGAYE TILAHUN

THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER 2024

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