Ethiopia's Ministry of Agriculture announced plans to cover 21.8 million hectares with seeds during the upcoming Meher farming season, the country's most critical agricultural period that produces 85-95% of food crops.
State Minister of Agriculture Meles Mekonnen (PhD) made the announcement during a briefing on the crop development campaign, emphasizing the government's focus on food security through expanded cultivation. The Meher season runs from May to July for planting, with harvesting occurring from September to February.
The planting target represents part of Ethiopia's broader agricultural expansion strategy. According to New Business Ethiopia, Mekonnen outlined significant progress in wheat development, noting that summer irrigation wheat coverage has grown from 3,500 hectares in 2011 to 4.2 million hectares currently, with production increasing from 100,000 quintals to 175 million quintals over the same period.
Meher wheat development has expanded from 1.75 million hectares in 2011 to over 4.4 million hectares currently, according to the State Minister. The government is also planning to cover 4.2 million hectares for Belg farming, Ethiopia's secondary agricultural season, with 3.8 million hectares already prepared.
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The State Minister stated that movements are being made to increase crop production "under the theme: 'Ensuring national food sovereignty by increasing production and productivity,'" according to New Business Ethiopia.
The Meher season depends on the June-September kiremt rains and is critical for staple crops including teff, maize, wheat, and sorghum. Teff serves as the primary grain for injera, Ethiopia's staple flatbread, while pulses like faba beans and chickpeas provide essential protein sources.
The ambitious planting target comes as Ethiopia pursues agricultural modernization through expanded mechanization, improved seed supply, and increased fertilizer access. The Meher season's success is crucial for Ethiopia's food security, as it accounts for the vast majority of the country's annual crop production. With favorable prospects reported for the 2024-2025 season, the expanded planting area could significantly boost national food production if weather conditions remain supportive.
