Addis Ababa: The Minister of Agriculture has emphasized the pivotal role of agriculture in fortifying the nation’s economic sovereignty, highlighting its substantial contribution to the country’s self-sufficiency and economic resilience.
As the nation commemorates Sovereignty Day today government officials underscore the multifaceted nature of national independence.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, in his social media post this morning, emphasized that safeguarding sovereignty is paramount to national existence. He elaborated that sovereignty transcends territorial boundaries, encompassing a holistic approach to national autonomy.
The Prime Minister delineated key pillars of sovereignty, including food security, technological advancement, and fiscal independence.
He posited that achieving these objectives necessitates a novel form of patriotism, one that recognizes the interconnectedness of various aspects of national sovereignty.
State Minister of Agriculture, Fikru Regassa, in an interview with ENA, elucidat
ed the agricultural sector’s crucial role in bolstering economic sovereignty.
He highlighted the sector’s significant strides in enhancing productivity and efficiency, citing reforms implemented by the government.
Fikru emphasized that food security extends beyond mere self-sufficiency, encompassing the provision of affordable, nutritionally balanced sustenance for the populace.
He lauded recent initiatives aimed at diversifying crop production, notably the successful cultivation of wheat and other highland crops in lowland areas during the rainy season, marking a paradigm shift in agricultural practices.
The minister also underscored the transformative impact of technological integration in agriculture, emphasizing its role in modernizing the sector.
He stressed the importance of addressing environmental challenges to ensure long-term economic sovereignty, advocating for a balance between agricultural productivity and ecological sustainability.
Recognizing the country’s reliance on imported agricultura
l products, Minister Fikru emphasized the need to expand domestic production across various agricultural and livestock sectors.
The State Minister cited the success in wheat production as a model to be replicated, aiming to reduce import dependence and boost export capabilities.
The government’s focus on value addition to domestically produced agricultural goods was highlighted as a strategy to enhance export revenues and strengthen the country’s position in international markets.
This comprehensive approach to agriculture, as outlined by the state minister, underscores its critical role in fortifying national economic sovereignty and fostering sustainable development.
Source: Ethiopian News Agency