To assess the progress and status of the planned activities for the 2023 RAISE-FS project, the Oromial Liaison Office organized a bi-annual project review meeting. Held on August 19, 2023, at Adama’s Hillside Hotel, this one-day workshop brought together various stakeholders, including implementing partners, centre representatives, finance persons, MEL experts, and project advisors. The primary objective of the meeting was to review the activities undertaken so far, address challenges faced, and facilitate experience sharing among partners.
Dr. Tesfaye Letta, the Oromia liaison office team leader, set the tone for the meeting with his opening speech. He emphasized the importance of reviewing the planned activities across implementing partners and promoting knowledge sharing among them. Centre representatives and RAISE-FS project focal persons then presented the progress of activities within each of the three food system typologies.
Debreziet Agricultural Research Centre, focusing on commercial food systems, reported that almost all activities are being implemented successfully. However, they faced challenges related to access to finance for one specific activity on business models. Despite this setback, the centre is employing preparatory work like selecting participant women and youth and organizing them in groups.
Holeta Agricultural Research Centre, responsible for high-potential food systems, shared that all activities were progressing well except for the pilot and demonstration of potato mini tuber production, which had not yet started at the farmers’ field level.
Melkassa Agricultural Research Centre, focusing on food insecure food systems, reported that all planned activities for 2023 were underway and progressing well.
Haramaya University’s focal person for the RAISE-FS project, Dr. Bulti Tesso on his part explained a total of 14 research activities planned are being implemented in three woredas. With a direct reach to 204 farmers, including 74 youth and 130 adult farmers, the project was deemed to be progressing smoothly. Field trial management was also on track as per the plan.
Participants unanimously agreed that the workshop provided a valuable opportunity for understanding the current status and progress of the RAISE-FS project. The opportunity to learn from one another was highly appreciated by all. The project outcome advisors also acknowledged gaining more insights from this meeting and gaining clarity on previously unclear reports received from implementing partners. Participants suggested that this type of platform be organized regularly.
The meeting also delved into financial matters, including reporting, budget utilization, challenges faced, and on-time budget settlements. Mr. Tolessa, RAISE-FS Oromia liaison office finance officer, presented the financial guidelines of SWR Ethiopia to the participants, sparking detailed discussions on these guidelines. The aim was to suggest solutions and recommendations to address any finance-related issues in the remaining budget year.
In conclusion, by assessing progress, addressing challenges, and sharing experiences, stakeholders were able to ensure the successful accomplishment of project activities. The recommendations made during this meeting will play a vital role in steering the project towards its envisaged outcomes. With continued collaboration and knowledge sharing, the RAISE-FS project is poised to make a significant impact on food systems in Oromia and beyond.
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