Ethiopia and Liberia have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding agricultural cooperation as the African Union Commission endorses Ethiopia's transformation as a practical model for continental food security.
Agriculture Minister Addisu Arega said both nations are actively exploring deeper engagement in the agricultural sector. A high-level Liberian delegation led by Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti toured key agricultural sites in Bishoftu near Addis Ababa, including modern irrigation schemes, poultry farms, dairy breeding centers and hatcheries.
Janet Edeme, Head of Rural Development and Agriculture, Food and Security Division at the African Union Commission, told ENA that Ethiopia has significantly increased agricultural production and productivity, particularly in wheat cultivation, while also recording notable gains across key value chains such as coffee and livestock.
"Ethiopia's progress demonstrates how coordinated policies and system wide reforms can deliver tangible results across the agricultural sector," Edeme said in an exclusive interview.
The Liberian delegation observed large-scale farming operations and described Ethiopia's transformation as a compelling model for countries seeking to modernize their agricultural sectors. Minister Addisu led the delegation through key agricultural projects and development clusters, offering firsthand exposure to Ethiopia's integrated farming systems.
"They have seen practical results on the ground and are eager to work with us to share knowledge and experience," he stated.
Liberia is preparing to send researchers and scientists to Ethiopia, laying the foundation for sustained technical cooperation and long-term knowledge exchange. During the visit, the delegation received detailed briefings on the central role of agriculture in Ethiopia's economy, where the sector contributes nearly half of the country's export earnings.
The delegation also toured projects under Ethiopia's "Bounty of the Basket" initiative, including dairy and poultry developments known for creating employment opportunities, particularly for women and youth.
Samuel Kofi Woods, Liberia's National Security Advisor, stressed that while political independence has been achieved, economic independence remains essential to sustaining sovereignty.
"Ethiopia's agricultural progress shows a clear and workable path toward economic independence," he said, underscoring the importance of boosting domestic productivity.
The delegation pointed to Ethiopia's shift from wheat importer to exporter as a major milestone, attributing the achievement to consistent policy focus and investment in the agricultural sector. Deputy Information Minister for Press and Public Affairs Daniel O. Sando noted that Ethiopia's growing presence in agricultural exports offers a practical example for African countries seeking resilience.
