DURAMME – In a bid to meet the increasing demand, the Central Ethiopia State Agriculture Bureau said it has made consolidated efforts to establish the area as a major player in the global rosemary market.
State Deputy Chief Administrator and Bureau Head UsmanSurur told the Ethiopia Press Agency (EPA) that the goal is goal is maximizing production capacity while maintaining high-quality standards thereby positioning the state as a leading supplier of rosemary for the global market.
The area’s high soil fertility, the amenability of its climate towards the cultivation of diverse range of crops and the comparative abundance of water supply make it an ideal place for rosemary production, he added.
Usman, who is also the state’s Agriculture and Rural Development Sector Coordinator, further noted that the exclusive availability of rosemary in the Silti Zone has resulted in a significant amount of revenue of approximately 2.8 million USD in the last fiscal year from export.
Moreover, during the past six months of the current fiscal year, rosemary production has been significantly contributing to the foreign currency earnings, hitting an impressive 3.8 million USD mark.
Noting European customers’ recognition of the quality of the area’s rosemary products, the bureau head mentioned the acquisition of the Global Gap Certificate in Germany. Additionally, over 3,000 farmers have obtained certification that confirms their products’ compliance with international standards.
“The bureau has been working to maintain the progress that has been made so far and outlined plans for further expansion. Plan is also set to expand the rosemary cultivation to Gurage, Hadia, Kambata, Halabana, and other zones and districts of the Central Ethiopia region. In the Gurage Zone alone, approximately 2,000 hectares of land have been developed for rosemary cultivation, showcasing the commitment to scaling up production.”
Apart from its noticeable economic outcomes, rosemary production contributes to environmental sustainability and it has a drought resistant character and conserves water and resists pests and diseases. By doing this, rosemary reduces the need for chemical inputs and promotes organic farming practices as well as contributes to carbon sequestration and climate change mitigation. “These practices align with sustainable agriculture, preserving natural resources and ecosystem integrity.”
The bureau is providing comprehensive training and resources facilitated by agricultural experts in a bid to support local farmers and increase product and productivity.
As Central Ethiopia State continues to invest in the expansion of rosemary production through leveraging its natural resources and favorable climate, it is paving the way for a flourishing spice industry and offering new opportunities for farmers. The state is also determined to become a leading player in the global rosemary market, the deputy chief administrator remarked.
BY FIKADU BELAY
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD WEDNESDAY 17 APRIL 2024
