The RAISE-FS Ethiopia project has resumed its activities in Tigray, Ethiopia, signalling a renewed commitment to addressing the challenges facing the region’s food system. Following a baseline survey and Rapid Food System Appraisal (RFSA) conducted in collaboration with TARI and Mekelle University, the project has gained valuable insights into the dynamics of the food system in Tigray. These findings have laid the groundwork for identifying key leverage points to strengthen the region’s food system.
In line with its dedication to stakeholder engagement, the RAISE-FS Liaison Office in Tigray facilitated an RFSA validation on 14th March 2024, and a 2024 plan validation workshop on 15th March 2024 in Mekelle. The primary objective of these events was to present the RFSA findings and provide an opportunity for local stakeholders to review and validate the results. Additionally, the workshops aimed to validate proposed activities by stakeholders.
The validation workshop represented a significant milestone in the project’s engagement with key actors in the local food system. By bringing together stakeholders from diverse backgrounds, the workshop aimed to ensure that the RFSA findings accurately reflect the realities and dynamics of the Tigray food system and that the planned activities can effectively address the challenges identified by the RFSA. This collaborative approach was crucial for gaining a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the region’s food system and for involving all stakeholders in addressing those issues.
Dr. Eyasu Abrha, the head of Tigray’s BoA, emphasized the substantial challenges facing the agricultural sector in Tigray, including conflict, rainfall scarcity, and locust invasion. These challenges have severely impacted agricultural activities, affecting the livelihoods of farmers and communities in the region. Dr. Eyasu stressed the importance of collaboration and expressed gratitude for the support from partners such as RAISE-FS in addressing these challenges and working towards mitigating the damage inflicted on the agriculture sector.
The RFSA, conducted in partnership with TARI and Mekelle University, served as a foundational step in understanding the dynamics of the local food system. The findings of this appraisal have been instrumental in identifying leverage points to address challenges and capitalize on opportunities for food system transformation. Driven by the commitment to leverage local expertise and insights, the validation workshop aimed to ensure that the RFSA findings accurately reflect the realities and dynamics of the Tigray food system.
The validation workshop also saw active participation from RAISE-FS outcome advisors, who provided technical inputs to strengthen proposed activities and address concerns raised by participants. Dr. Mulugeta Diro, RAISE-FS project deputy manager, reiterated the project’s commitment to prioritizing the region in commodity selection and interventions, considering the unique challenges faced by Tigray. With two remaining years to achieve planned activities, Dr. Mulugeta urged all stakeholders to work collectively towards the stated objectives, emphasizing the potential for a significant impact on the lives of the target community within the remaining period.
The validation workshop represents a pivotal step towards ensuring that the RFSA findings serve as a reliable foundation for future interventions and policies aimed at strengthening the food system in Tigray. By engaging with a diverse range of stakeholders, the project aims to capture a comprehensive picture of the food system and identify key areas for improvement.
In conclusion, the resumption of activities by the RAISE-FS project in Tigray underscores the project’s commitment to collaborative engagement and evidence-based interventions to address the challenges facing the region’s food system. Through continued partnership and stakeholder involvement, the project aims to contribute to sustainable transformation and resilience in Tigray’s food system.
The collaborative spirit and collective commitment demonstrated by stakeholders at the validation workshop underscored the potential for positive change and resilience in the region’s agricultural sector. Building on the insights gained from this workshop, it is imperative to continue working together towards a more sustainable and inclusive food system in Tigray.
RAISE-FS 