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A new chapter of seed self-sufficiency for Benishangul Gumuz Region
The Benishangul-Gumuz Region, a fertile area in Ethiopia renowned for its agricultural potential, particularly in maize production, is taking significant strides toward achieving seed self-sufficiency. Historically, the region has been a key supplier of hybrid maize seed for the nation, with larger companies and public seed enterprises producing seeds in the area. However, the reliance…
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Short term training on seed sector governance for seed professionals
The seed sector plays a pivotal role in shaping the agricultural landscape of Ethiopia. Recognizing the need to address challenges and enhance the capacity of professionals within the seed sector, SWR Ethiopia ESP project collaborated with Haramaya University and organized a short-term training program “Governance for Seed Sector Development.” This targeted training took place from…
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Enhancing capacity and resilience of seed producer cooperatives in Oromia Region
In a commendable effort to address seed insecurity and enhance seed sector development in Ethiopia, the SWR Ethiopia ESP project has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to the seed sector by supporting six Seed Producer Cooperatives (SPCs) in the East Hararghe zone of Oromia region. The project has focused on enhancing the capacity and efficiency of…
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Afar region achieves historic milestone in seed response and development
The Afar Region has reached a significant milestone in its seed production and supply self-sufficiency effort with the official endorsement of its first Seed Response and Seed Development Guideline. This achievement marks a transformative step toward establishing resilient agricultural practices and a robust seed development system in the region. The endorsement event, facilitated by Mercy…
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Strengthening seed labs for better seed certification service
The Ethiopian Seed Partnership (ESP) has been actively working to bolster seed regulatory services across the country. As part of this initiative, ESP has focused on strengthening seed testing laboratories to ensure the delivery of high-quality seeds to farmers. Following an extensive assessment of existing seed laboratories, gaps were identified, including limited technical capacity among…
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ESP internship success story: Aynadis Kifle’s journey from intern to entrepreneur
In this column of our newsletter, we highlight the incredible journey of Aynadiss Kifle, a determined young professional who turned her passion for horticulture into a thriving seed and agro-input business. Aynadiss’ story is a testament to the power of hard work, persistence, and the opportunities provided by programs like the internship program of ESP.…
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Significant step forward in theEthiopia’s variety testing for release and registration
Ethiopia has achieved a significant milestone in its agricultural sector with the implementation of the new Seed Proclamation No. 1288/2023, particularly in the variety release and registration process for wheat and vegetable crops. This marks a major step forward in transforming the system, which was historically fragmented and inefficient due to the involvement of various…
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Seed and Seed System Response Guideline – to alignhumanitarian and development efforts in fragile regions
The seed systems in seed-insecure regions of Ethiopia, such as Tigray, face significant challenges, often exacerbated by humanitarian seed aid that unintentionally disrupts local markets and systems. Recognizing this, Mercy Corps has spearheaded an initiative to develop the Seed and Seed System Response Guideline, a comprehensive framework aimed at fostering market-based seed interventions and strengthening…
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Teaming-up and collaborative strategies to enhanceHDP nexus for sustainable seed systemin fragile and conflict affected states
In an effort to organize the seed sectors of the Somali and Afar Regional States, two separate workshops were held in Jigjiga and Semera towns on May 14 and June 13, 2025, respectively. The primary objective of these workshops is to lay the foundation for coordination mechanisms among humanitarian, development, and peace (HDP) actors within…
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Internship opportunity
Background Stichting Wageningen Research Ethiopia (SWR Ethiopia) is an international NGO registered in Ethiopia with the FDRE Agency for Civil Society Organizations since March 2021. The organization aims to promote more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable food systems in Ethiopia. One of the roles of SWR Ethiopia, through its Ethiopia Seed Partnership (ESP) project, is enhancing…
