Ethiopia's Agricultural Transformation: How the Netherlands is Playing a Key Role
Imagine a country where agriculture is the backbone of its economy, yet challenges like food insecurity, climate change, and limited market access persist. This is the reality for Ethiopia, a nation brimming with agricultural potential. But here's where it gets inspiring: the Netherlands Agricultural Network (LAN) team at the Embassy of the Netherlands in Addis Ababa is actively working to change this narrative. In 2025, their efforts were nothing short of remarkable, focusing on food security, sustainable practices, and strengthening agricultural trade between Ethiopia and the Netherlands.
From Farm to Fork: Strengthening the Entire Chain
The LAN team tackled critical areas, acting as a catalyst for positive change. They championed agrologistics, a crucial yet often overlooked aspect, by leading the charge within the Embassy. This involved collaborating with various departments to ensure a seamless flow of agricultural goods. A groundbreaking study on cool system development, led by Wageningen University & Research (WUR), paved the way for the establishment of Cool Port Addis (CPA), a game-changer for temperature-sensitive produce. With funding secured from both governments, the team orchestrated agrologistics activities, supported missions, and initiated EU-funded projects under the PADEO program, fostering collaboration between partners and stakeholders.
Biodiversity: The Silent Guardian of Food Security
Recognizing the intrinsic link between biodiversity and food security, the LAN team prioritized strengthening cooperation between Ethiopia and the Netherlands in this area. They developed a strategic framework, a roadmap for joint action, aligning Dutch initiatives with Ethiopia's national agri-biodiversity priorities. This collaborative approach ensures a future where sustainable agriculture, environmental protection, and biodiversity conservation go hand in hand. A prime example is the successful Church Forest reforestation project in the Amhara region, where 3 hectares were restored through land compensation and the planting of native species, thanks to support from ORDA and RVO. Simultaneously, the team initiated efforts to integrate biodiversity considerations into agricultural policies and initiatives, working with the Climate Energy Response Facility (CERF) and the Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute (EBI).
Food Safety: Opening Doors to Global Markets
Access to international markets is vital for Ethiopia's agricultural growth. The LAN team played a pivotal role in helping Ethiopia meet stringent EU food safety and phytosanitary standards, particularly in the horticulture sector. They supported the implementation of a systems approach to manage False Codling Moth (FCM) in rose exports, ensuring Ethiopian flowers continue to grace European markets. Furthermore, they facilitated the adoption of ePhyto, a digital system for exchanging phytosanitary certificates, streamlining trade processes and enhancing transparency. Through capacity building initiatives with Ethiopian authorities, private sector engagement, and collaboration with the EU Twinning program and SNV, the team contributed to significant improvements in food safety, quality, and standards in both horticulture and dairy sectors.
Empowering Sectors: From Horticulture to Livestock
The LAN team's presence was felt across major sector events in 2025. At HortiFlora, organized with the Ethiopian Horticulture Producers Exporters Association (EHPEA), the exhibition reached unprecedented scale, showcasing Ethiopia's potential as a leading horticulture and floriculture hub. Over 30 Dutch companies displayed innovative technologies, while experts from organizations like NVWA, KCB, Flying Swans, and Union Fleurs shared valuable insights on EU regulations, plant protection, and agrologistics. In the livestock sector, the team organized Dutch pavilions at ALEC 2025, featuring over 15 Dutch companies specializing in dairy, poultry, aquaculture, bioenergy, and sustainable livestock solutions. These platforms facilitated business matchmaking and knowledge transfer, empowering Ethiopia's livestock industry.
Turning Waste into Wealth: Innovative Solutions for Food Loss
Food loss and waste (FLW) is a pressing issue in Ethiopia. The LAN team is proactively addressing this challenge by connecting Dutch innovators with Ethiopian partners. They piloted circular solutions that transform agricultural by-products into valuable resources. In collaboration with Spaak Circular Solutions and the TRAIDE Foundation, pilot projects in the Sidama region explored the use of avocado pits and coffee by-products to produce oils, animal feed, and biochar. These initiatives not only reduce environmental impact but also boost farmer income and promote a circular bioeconomy.
Supporting Dutch Agribusiness: Navigating Challenges, Fostering Growth
Despite a challenging business environment, the LAN team remained a vital support system for Dutch companies operating in Ethiopia. They provided guidance on regulatory issues, facilitated dialogue with government institutions, and helped navigate trade and investment hurdles. By connecting Dutch stakeholders with Ethiopian partners in horticulture, dairy, and poultry sectors, the team fostered investment, knowledge exchange, and sustainable agribusiness practices. Notably, they secured funding for a Responsible Business Conduct (RBC) session with the Ethiopian Netherlands Business Association (ENLBA), attended by over 200 participants. This event provided Dutch companies with guidance, best practices, and opportunities to strengthen their RBC efforts, with follow-up support offered to selected companies.
Looking Ahead: A Century of Collaboration
As Ethiopia and the Netherlands celebrate 100 years of trade relations in 2026, the LAN team is gearing up for a trade mission focused on horticulture and agrologistics. This mission aims to showcase Ethiopia's business potential and foster even stronger ties between the two nations. The team remains committed to strengthening Ethiopia's agri-food sector through partnerships, policy engagement, and technical support. By promoting innovation and sustainability, they will continue to support resilient food systems and mutually beneficial cooperation between Ethiopia and the Netherlands.
Food for Thought: The Future of Ethiopian Agriculture
The LAN team's efforts in 2025 demonstrate the power of international collaboration in addressing complex agricultural challenges. But here's the controversial part: can Ethiopia truly achieve sustainable agricultural development without addressing land tenure issues and ensuring equitable access to resources for smallholder farmers? What role should traditional knowledge and practices play in modernizing Ethiopian agriculture? We invite you to share your thoughts and engage in this crucial discussion.
For more information, contact the LAN team in Addis Ababa at ADD-LVVN@minbuza.nl.
