About
The Ministry
Irrigation has been used to develop large to medium-scale farms in Ethiopia. However, given the possibilities it offers for the country’s agriculture sector and overall economic development, it remains underutilized. Moreover, as Ethiopia has envisioned to become a middle-income country by 2023 E.C, the proper utilization of natural resources and irrigation technology can help in realizing this vision.
Mandate
In collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) and the Ministry of Water and Energy (MoWE), expand irrigation development in pastoral and semi-pastoral areas.
Facilitate the proper utilization of groundwater and surface water resources of the country for irrigation in consultation with the Ministry of Water and Energy.
Develop irrigation projects that are supported by innovative technologies that will enhance productivity and to adopt mechanisms for effective use of water.
Promote irrigation development projects through different means and create conducive conditions for private investors to gain incentives in accordance with the law.
Initiate policies, strategies, and laws with respect to irrigation development, lowlands, and drought-prone areas; prepare detailed programs compatible with the national development plan for their implementation and implement the same upon approval.
Accelerate the expansion of irrigation development to achieve food security and eventually export income.
Message from the Minister
Ethiopia stands at the forefront of a transformative journey, one that seeks to secure our nation’s food sovereignty and achieve self-sufficiency. The establishment of the Ministry of Irrigation and Lowlands (MILLs) signals a bold step forward in our pursuit of these noble objectives.
In Ethiopia, agriculture is the backbone of our economy. However, the potential for optimizing irrigation remains largely untapped, with less than 10% of arable land currently benefiting from such systems. Recognizing the critical importance of these sector, the Ministry of Irrigation and Lowlands (MILLs) has undertaken an ambitious mission to implement innovative, efficient, and sustainable irrigation systems that will revolutionize our agricultural landscape.In addition to enhancing irrigation, developing Ethiopia’s lowlands is one of our top priorities. By implementing targeted development strategies, we can unlock the productivity of lowlands, ensuring they contribute significantly to our national food security and economic resilience.Our ministry is dedicated to fostering innovation, sustainability, and collaboration. Together, we can transform Ethiopia’s agricultural sector, ensuring a prosperous future for all. As we move forward, I would like to invite our governmental counterparts, the private sector, and development partners to join us in these transformative efforts to achieve food sovereignty, and lowland development while advancing several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).Together, let us stride towards a future where every Ethiopian can blossom and thrive.
H.E. Abraham Belay Berhe (PhD)Minister of Irrigation and LowlandsFederal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia
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