ADDIS ABABA – Ethiopia is set to host the inaugural international conference on irrigation and climate resilience from February 12-14, 2025, at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum.
The Ministry of Irrigation and Lowlands (MILLs) is actively preparing for this groundbreaking conference, themed “Cultivating Resilience: Global Perspectives on Irrigation Development and Climate Adaptation.”
This international gathering will bring together experts, policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders from across Africa and the globe. The conference aims to address and share insights on irrigation-related challenges through global collaboration and knowledge exchange, discuss emerging trends, and showcase successful interventions in this critical area.
In a briefing yesterday, MILLs Minister Abraham Belay (PhD) emphasized the significant strides made by the ministry in irrigation development across various lowland areas. These efforts have had a profound positive impact on the livelihoods of farmers and pastoralists, contributing significantly to the country’s socioeconomic development.
Recognizing the pivotal role of agriculture in Ethiopia’s economic stability and the nation’s vast agricultural potential, Minister Belay highlighted the government’s strong emphasis on developing robust, adaptive, and sustainable irrigation systems. He further elaborated on the ministry’s ongoing implementation of various irrigation expansion activities, aligned with national food security and economic resilience initiatives.
MILLs State Minister Tesfaye Yigezu emphasized that this conference will provide a valuable platform for sharing best global experiences and practices to enhance irrigation strategies, improve water use efficiency, and build resilience against the adverse effects of climate change.
Furthermore, the conference will explore innovative financing mechanisms that prioritize inclusivity by ensuring the active participation of women, youth, and marginalized communities in irrigation development efforts.
Beyond addressing pressing challenges faced by pastoralists, State Minister Tesfaye emphasized that the conference will contribute to mitigating macroeconomic breakdowns, promoting job creation, and empowering women through robust irrigation systems.
Additionally, this international event will create a valuable opportunity to enhance Ethiopia’s global image, promote tourism, hospitality, and cultural exchange.
BY ASHENAFI ANIMUT
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD WEDNESDAY 1 JANUARY 2025
