In today’s interconnected world, food safety is not just a public health priority; it is a cornerstone of economic growth, community well-being, and sustainable development. Recognizing this, SWR Ethiopia RAISE-FS project has facilitated “Governance from Farm to Fork” food safety course which significantly contributed in empowering professionals to reimagine food safety systems through innovation, collaboration, … Continue reading From training to action: How RAISE-FS alumni are transforming food safety practices in Ethiopia
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Re-shaping the future of agrologistics: Paving the way for food system transformation in Ethiopia
Ethiopia, a country endowed with vast agricultural potential, finds itself at a pivotal moment in its efforts to transform its food systems. Despite its fertile lands and a substantial agricultural workforce, the nation faces persistent challenges in agrologistics; challenges that hinder its ability to fully capitalize on its agricultural resources. Resolving these inefficiencies is critical … Continue reading Re-shaping the future of agrologistics: Paving the way for food system transformation in Ethiopia
RAISE-FS working document on One Health shared with stakeholders
Ethiopia’s One Health initiative, which acknowledges the interconnectedness of human, animal, plant, and environmental health, has encountered several challenges since its launch in 2015. An evaluation conducted in the regions of Amhara, Oromia, Tigray, and Sidama highlighted significant gaps in policy enforcement, sectoral integration, and data sharing. The primary issues identified include weak legal frameworks, … Continue reading RAISE-FS working document on One Health shared with stakeholders
Transforming challenges into opportunities with integrated farming
In the heart of Amhara region Bahir Dar, a small family business has transformed into a thriving, sustainable agribusiness through the power of innovation, hard work, and strategic support. Tiruwork and Hailemariam Poultry Business Enterprise, which started as a modest poultry and egg production operation in 2020/21, has grown into a diversified enterprise that integrates … Continue reading Transforming challenges into opportunities with integrated farming
Stakeholders take steps to strengthen agricultural messaging in mainstream media in Amhara region
Regional authorities and key stakeholders in the Amhara region have established a coordination council to strengthen agricultural messaging in mainstream media, marking an important shift from discussion to coordinated action. The council is expected to help bridge gaps between agricultural research, extension services, and the media by creating an institutional platform to sustain collaboration and … Continue reading Stakeholders take steps to strengthen agricultural messaging in mainstream media in Amhara region
Policy dialogue to enhance agricultural messaging in Ethiopia
A high-level policy dialogue aimed at improving agricultural messaging in Ethiopia was organized by Wageningen Research (SWR) Ethiopia in collaboration with the Agricultural Transformation Institute (ATI). The event, held in Addis Ababa on 24th of March 2026, brought together policymakers, researchers, farmers, media practitioners, and development partners to discuss the findings of a comprehensive study … Continue reading Policy dialogue to enhance agricultural messaging in Ethiopia
Advancing Agrologistics for Resilient and Sustainable Food Systems: RAISE-FS LOGIC Kicks Off in Ethiopia
The agricultural sector plays a pivotal role in ensuring food security, fostering economic growth, and enhancing livelihoods. Recognizing the critical need for efficient agrologistics in transforming food systems, the project "Advancing Agrologistics for Resilient, Inclusive and Sustainable Food Systems (RAISE-FS LOGIC)" was officially launched with a planning workshop involving key stakeholders. This two-year initiative, funded … Continue reading Advancing Agrologistics for Resilient and Sustainable Food Systems: RAISE-FS LOGIC Kicks Off in Ethiopia
Tigray’s potato seed system: Innovation, collaboration, and impact
Potatoes are a vital source of food and income for smallholder farmers in Tigray region, Ethiopia. However, productivity in the region has lagged behind national averages. To address this, the RAISE-FS project, in collaboration with its implementing partners, has introduced potato innovation bundles in Tigray’s Tsaeda Emba and Atsbi woredas to demonstrate evidence of innovation … Continue reading Tigray’s potato seed system: Innovation, collaboration, and impact
Where culture meets action: Marking 2026 International Women’s Day at SWR Ethiopia
At SWR Ethiopia, International Women’s Day (IWD) is more than a moment of celebration it is a deliberate effort to reflect on progress, challenge norms, and strengthen an organizational culture that promotes gender equality and inclusion. Each year, the day serves as both a recognition of achievements and a renewed commitment to creating a workplace … Continue reading Where culture meets action: Marking 2026 International Women’s Day at SWR Ethiopia
Advice from a changemaker: Dr. Bosena’s tips for aspiring women in research
This International Women’s Day, celebrated under the theme "GiveToGain," we honor the remarkable journey of Dr. Bosena Tegegne, an Associate Professor in Agricultural Economics. Through her dedication and contributions, she has inspired change, empowered communities, and paved the way for a brighter future in agriculture. Childhood dream As a child, Dr. Bosena dreamed of becoming … Continue reading Advice from a changemaker: Dr. Bosena’s tips for aspiring women in research
Celebrating Truayinet Mekuriaw: An exemplary woman in agricultural research
On this International Women’s Day, celebrated under the theme "GiveToGain," we take pride in highlighting the inspiring journey of Truayinet Mekuriaw, a dedicated agricultural researcher and advocate for gender equality. Truayinet Mekuriaw holds a B.Sc. in Rural Development and Agricultural Extension from Haramaya University and an M.Sc. in Rural Development from Hawassa University. Her professional … Continue reading Celebrating Truayinet Mekuriaw: An exemplary woman in agricultural research
Atsede Solomon Retta: A journey of passion, perseverance, and impact in agricultural research
From childhood dreams to agricultural innovation Growing up inspired by her determined mother, Atsede's childhood dream was to become a doctor. However, as she became more aware of the challenges of rural poverty and hunger in Ethiopia, her vision shifted toward creating solutions for these pressing issues. Her passion for improving access to food, education, … Continue reading Atsede Solomon Retta: A journey of passion, perseverance, and impact in agricultural research
From research to regulation: Strengthening pesticide governance in Tigray Region
Effective pesticide management is essential for ensuring sustainable agricultural practices and safeguarding public health. In the Tigray region of Ethiopia, the urgent need for improved pesticide governance has come to light through a study conducted by Sticthing Wageningen Research Ethiopia RAISE-FS project in collaboration with Mekelle University. This research, focusing on pesticide life cycle management, … Continue reading From research to regulation: Strengthening pesticide governance in Tigray Region
Catalysing food system transformation in Ethiopia: Insights from the RAISE-FS expert workshop
An expert workshop entitled “Expert Workshop on Food System Transformation for Ethiopia – experiences from RAISE-FS” was organized on February 5th, 2026. The main aim of the Expert workshop was to create a space for key high-level Experts from relevant public organizations (MoA, MoTRI, MoPD), Knowledge Institutes (HLIs and ARIs), private actors, and development partners … Continue reading Catalysing food system transformation in Ethiopia: Insights from the RAISE-FS expert workshop
Revitalizing lentil production in Gumbichu woreda, Oromia region
In a collaborative effort to revive Ethiopia's once-thriving lentil production, the SWR Ethiopia’sRAISE-FS project has been working jointly with the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR) and Bishoftu Agricultural Research Centre (BARC) to scale up lentil innovation bundles in Gumbichu woreda. This initiative, in partnership with local stakeholders, aims to tackle the pressing challenges that … Continue reading Revitalizing lentil production in Gumbichu woreda, Oromia region
Transforming waste into wealth: The innovative journey of Bereketab Kataro
In a world grappling with environmental degradation and the harmful effects of plastic pollution, innovative solutions are the need of the hour. One such inspiring story comes from Ethiopia, where a young innovator, Bereketab Kataro, is turning banana farm waste into eco-friendly paper bags. Bereketab is not only making strides in sustainable development but also … Continue reading Transforming waste into wealth: The innovative journey of Bereketab Kataro
Breaking new ground: Testing the ABCD[E] framework for food systems resilience in Ethiopia
In a landmark effort to bolster food systems resilience, researchers under the SWR Ethiopia RAISE-FS project, in collaboration with Wageningen Social & Economic Research, have successfully applied the ABCD[E] framework in Ethiopia’s potato sector. This marks the first real-world implementation of the ABCD[E] framework, which stands for Agency, Buffering, Connectivity, Diversity, and Enablers. The study, … Continue reading Breaking new ground: Testing the ABCD[E] framework for food systems resilience in Ethiopia
Gender transformation success celebrated in Kersa woreda, Oromia region
Kersa woreda celebrated significant achievements in improving gender equality through the implementation of Social Analysis and Action (SAA) tools. This initiative, a collaborative effort by the SWR Ethiopia RAISE-FS project and Haramaya University, alongside local stakeholders, aims to challenge traditional gender norms and promote equitable relationships within households and communities. Recognizing progress and key contributors … Continue reading Gender transformation success celebrated in Kersa woreda, Oromia region
Validation workshop highlights progress and challenges in one health adoption and integration in Ethiopia
To promote One Health (OH) approach adoption and integration in Ethiopia, the SWR Ethiopia RAISE-FS project facilitated a validation workshop for a comprehensive study titled “Assessment of One Health Policy Adoption and Integration in Ethiopia.” The study, commissioned and technically supported by the project, was conducted across four regions: Amhara, Oromia, South, and Tigray. The … Continue reading Validation workshop highlights progress and challenges in one health adoption and integration in Ethiopia
Transforming vulnerability into resilience: The role of poultry production in Atsbi and Enderta woredas
In the face of adversity, finding sustainable solutions to improve livelihoods and empower marginalized communities is a challenge worth due attention. In the Tigray region of northern Ethiopia, where crises like armed conflict, recurrent drought, and locust invasions have devastated food systems and livelihoods, poultry production has emerged as an opportunity to empower rural livelihoods. … Continue reading Transforming vulnerability into resilience: The role of poultry production in Atsbi and Enderta woredas
Training on basic nutrition and hands-on food oat recipe preparation for farmers
In a significant step towards enhancing nutrition and dietary diversity in rural Ethiopia, the SWR Ethiopia RAISE-FS Project, in collaboration with the Sirinka Agricultural Research Center (SARC), organised an engaging hands-on training session on basic nutrition and food oat recipe preparation. The training aimed to raise farmers awareness on nutrition and practical ways to incorporate … Continue reading Training on basic nutrition and hands-on food oat recipe preparation for farmers
Consultative workshop on leafy vegetables and root crops production and food recipe manual
The SWR Ethiopia RAISE-FS project, in collaboration with the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR) and the Melkassa Agricultural Research Centre, successfully organized a consultative workshop at Adama city, on December 4, 2025. The workshop focused on reviewing and refining a production and food recipe manual tailored for selected leafy vegetables and root crops. This … Continue reading Consultative workshop on leafy vegetables and root crops production and food recipe manual
Sirinka ARC showcases agricultural innovations in Angot woreda, North Wollo Zone
Sirinka Agricultural Research Center (SARC), in partnership with SWR Ethiopia’s RAISE-FS project, organised a field day in Angot woreda to showcase successful agricultural innovations aimed at transforming the food and farming systems in the drought-prone highlands of North Wollo zone, such as Angot and Gazo woredas. Over 85 participants attended the event, including 60 farmers … Continue reading Sirinka ARC showcases agricultural innovations in Angot woreda, North Wollo Zone
Empowering media voices: Training journalists to drive change in food safety and nutrition
To raise public awareness on food safety and nutrition, SWR Ethiopia’s RAISE-FS project, in partnership with Bahir Dar University, recently held a three-day training programme for 15 media professionals from different media in the Amhara region. The programme aimed to equip journalists with the information, knowledge and resources needed to promote safer food systems and … Continue reading Empowering media voices: Training journalists to drive change in food safety and nutrition
Second food safety technical working group meeting advances collaborative efforts in Bahir Dar
On October 27, 2025, SWR Ethiopia's RAISE-FS project, in partnership with Bahir Dar University and the Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority (EFDA), Bahir Dar Branch, held the second meeting of the Food Safety Technical Working Group in Bahir Dar. This important gathering brought together 27 stakeholders from diverse sectors to discuss and tackle pressing food … Continue reading Second food safety technical working group meeting advances collaborative efforts in Bahir Dar
Breaking bottlenecks in soybean consumption: Cooking demonstration in Sidama Region, Ethiopia
In a significant effort to enhance soybean consumption and promote its integration into local diets, a cooking demonstration was recently conducted in the Sidama region of southern Ethiopia. This event, organized by the SWR Ethiopia RAISE-FS project in collaboration with Hawassa University, took place in the Hawassa Zuria district and brought together over 160 participants. … Continue reading Breaking bottlenecks in soybean consumption: Cooking demonstration in Sidama Region, Ethiopia
Scaling soya bean in Southern Ethiopia: Bridging knowledge gaps with gender focused training on soybean agronomy and nutrition
Southern Ethiopia’s Sidama region is fast becoming a hub for soybean production and marketing, offering immense potential for economic growth and improved livelihoods. In line with this promising development, the SWR Ethiopia RAISE-FS project, in partnership with Hawassa University, has been spearheading efforts to scale up soybean innovations over the past four years. A key … Continue reading Scaling soya bean in Southern Ethiopia: Bridging knowledge gaps with gender focused training on soybean agronomy and nutrition
Joint efforts to tackle food insecurity through localized solutions: the role of sustainable home gardening
In the southern part of Ethiopia, Silti and Boloso Bombe woredas, which are agriculture-dominated and food-insecure areas, are grappling with the challenges of erratic rainfall, small landholdings, poor soil fertility, and limited farming practices. These woredas, characterized by low dietary diversity, high child malnutrition rates, and limited off-farm income opportunities, have long been reliant on … Continue reading Joint efforts to tackle food insecurity through localized solutions: the role of sustainable home gardening
Addressing financial barriers to engage youth and women in a goat fattening business model
Haramaya University, in collaboration with SWR Ethiopia RAISE-FS project, is promoting a goat fattening business model to benefit youth and women in Babile and Kersa woredas of Oromia region. Launched earlier this year, the initiative is already showing promising progress. One of the major challenges in promoting this business model has been access to finance. … Continue reading Addressing financial barriers to engage youth and women in a goat fattening business model
Scaling the seed potato business model to address seed shortage: evidence from Kofale woreda, Oromia
A business model to address the shortage of seed potato of improved varieties has been tested and validated in Kofale woreda. To facilitate the scaling of the demonstrated evidence, a field day was jointly organized by the SWR Ethiopia RAISE-FS project in collaboration with Kulumsa Agricultural Research Centre (KARC) and the Kofale woreda Agricultural Office … Continue reading Scaling the seed potato business model to address seed shortage: evidence from Kofale woreda, Oromia
Enhancing farmers’ nutrition awareness using cooking demonstrations in Tigray
In an effort to combat malnutrition and improve household nutrition, the Mekelle Agricultural Research Centre (MARC) of Tigray Agricultural Research Institute (TARI), in collaboration with the SWR Ethiopia RAISE-FS project, has conducted cooking demonstrations as part of a home garden initiative. The activity focused on empowering resource-poor farming households to grow and utilize nutrient-rich vegetables, … Continue reading Enhancing farmers’ nutrition awareness using cooking demonstrations in Tigray
Scaling the intercropping technique as a key strategy for sustainable and resilient farming systems: evidence from Waghimra zone, Amhara region
Scaling intercropping of pearl millet with lowland pulses has shown noticeable improvements in smallholder farming systems. This innovation helps to improve food security, soil health, and household income. It provides a promising and transformative pathway for communities in dryland agro-ecological areas like the Waghimra zone, which face climate and resource constraints. Field day showcases intercropping … Continue reading Scaling the intercropping technique as a key strategy for sustainable and resilient farming systems: evidence from Waghimra zone, Amhara region
Strengthening the oilseeds sector: A collaborative push forward
In a significant step toward revitalising the oilseeds sector in Amhara region, a regional multi-stakeholder meeting was convened in Bahir Dar, bringing together a broad mix of key actors. Representatives from government organisations, financial institutions, processors, seed multipliers, seed enterprises, research institutes, traders, exporters, farmer organisations, universities, and administrators came together and discuss how to … Continue reading Strengthening the oilseeds sector: A collaborative push forward
The maize-common bean inter-cropping technique helping farmers get additional benefits in Silti woreda
Efficient agricultural planning and informed decision making are key elements for sustainability and resilience of agricultural production. To support this process Innovation Recommendation Mapping (IRM) was developed by Wageningen University & Research and experts from Ethiopia. IRM allows users to generate maps that show in which locations ‘best fit innovations’ can be scaled and what … Continue reading The maize-common bean inter-cropping technique helping farmers get additional benefits in Silti woreda
Promoting soya bean consumption in Mirab Armachiho woreda
As part of the SWR-Ethiopia RAISE-FS project initiative, Bahir Dar University (BDU) and Gondar Agricultural Research Centre (GARC) jointly organized a week-long Social and Behavioural Change Communication (SBCC) training in Mirab Armachiho woreda from July 20–25, 2025. The initiative aimed to promote soybean consumption as a means to improve nutritional outcomes and food security in … Continue reading Promoting soya bean consumption in Mirab Armachiho woreda
SWR Ethiopia and Wollo University join forces for the TRANSFORM Project
On July 23rd, 2025, a collaboration agreement was signed between SWR Ethiopia and Wollo University to implement the TRANSFORM project in South Wollo Zone. The signing ceremony took place at the Swiss Inn Hotel in Addis Ababa, attended by notable figures including Dr. Dawit Alemu, SWR Ethiopia Country Representative; Dr. Tewodros Tefera, SWR Ethiopia TRANSFORM … Continue reading SWR Ethiopia and Wollo University join forces for the TRANSFORM Project
Unlocking the potential of soybean in Southern Ethiopia: Key take aways from soybean innovation platform
South Ethiopia is emerging as a region with immense potential for soybean production and marketing. Recognizing this opportunity, SWR Ethiopia, in partnership with Hawassa University, has been actively working to validate soybean innovations and foster collaboration among stakeholders in the soybean value chain. In a significant step towards this goal, a soybean innovation platform workshop … Continue reading Unlocking the potential of soybean in Southern Ethiopia: Key take aways from soybean innovation platform
Transforming healthier lives through home gardens andsocial behaviour change communication
SWR Ethiopia’s RAISE-FS project is making strides in dietary diversity and improved nutrition, with a focus on empowering communities to grow safe and nutritious food by promoting home gardens and Social and Behavioural Change Communication (SBCC) interventions using the Ethiopian Food Based Dietary Guideline (EFBDG). In Angot, one of the food-insecure woredas in the North … Continue reading Transforming healthier lives through home gardens andsocial behaviour change communication
From data to dialogue: Co-created stories of shifting norms
How a participatory approach helped communities and experts reflect, learn, and transform together Between June 8th and 14th, RAISE-FS teams from four regions convened in Gumer woreda, located in the Central Ethiopia Region, to mark the conclusion of a year-long pilot of the Social Analysis and Action (SAA) approach. This gathering was not merely a … Continue reading From data to dialogue: Co-created stories of shifting norms
Hydroponic fodder production: A promising alternative to rising poultry feed costs
The Ethiopian poultry sector, grappling with escalating feed costs, is turning to an innovative solution: hydroponic fodder production. This sustainable alternative promises to alleviate the financial strain on farmers by providing an affordable and nutrient-rich feed option. The soaring prices of conventional feed ingredients such as maize and soya bean have placed a heavy burden … Continue reading Hydroponic fodder production: A promising alternative to rising poultry feed costs
Empowering Ethiopian professionals through international capacity building trainings
In an era where global food systems face unprecedented challenges, from climate change to population growth, the need for skilled professionals to lead sustainable and innovative solutions has never been more critical. Ethiopia, a nation with a rich agricultural heritage and immense potential, is taking significant strides by adopting a food system transformation approach as … Continue reading Empowering Ethiopian professionals through international capacity building trainings
Ethiopia’s spice industry has immense potential for development
Ethiopia, a land known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse agriculture, holds an untapped treasure trove in its spice sector. According to a recent working paper by RAISE-FS (link), the country has over 50 spice varieties registered for the major 10 types of spices, including korarima, cumin, pepper, and fenugreek. Despite Ethiopia’s favourable agroecological … Continue reading Ethiopia’s spice industry has immense potential for development
From farm-to-fork: Strengthening Ethiopia’s food safety governance
In an effort to enhance food safety in Ethiopia, the "Governance from Farm to Fork for Food Safety" blended course has successfully concluded its three-month journey on May 16, 2025. This program, co-organized by Wageningen Social & Economic Research and the SWR Ethiopia RAISE-FS project, brought together 39 participants from diverse sectors, including national and … Continue reading From farm-to-fork: Strengthening Ethiopia’s food safety governance
National Nutrition-Sensitive Agri-Food System Forum update
RAISE-FS contributes to strengthening national nutrition-sensitive agri-food systemsThe Food and Nutrition Office (FNO) at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture (MoA), in partnership with the SWR Ethiopia RAISE-FS project, successfully hosted the 6th quarterly meeting of the National Nutrition-Sensitive Agri-Food System (NSAFS) forum in March 2025. The event took place at Nexus Inn Hotel and brought … Continue reading National Nutrition-Sensitive Agri-Food System Forum update
Food safety stakeholders validate key safety guidelines
The Ethiopian Agriculture Authority (EAA), in collaboration with SWR Ethiopia RAISE-FS project, hosted a validation workshop on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), Good Handling Practices (GHP), Good Manufacturing Practices guidelines for sesame, hot pepper, and poultry that improve the quality and safety along vale chains. The event aimed to address critical food safety challenges impacting Ethiopia's … Continue reading Food safety stakeholders validate key safety guidelines
Ethiopia’s coffee sector faces EUDR compliance challenges as stakeholders validate key assessment
The Ethiopian coffee sector, a vital pillar of the nation’s economy, is navigating a critical juncture as it prepares to comply with the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). The regulation, which takes effect in December 2025, aims to halt the import of commodities linked to deforestation into the EU. Given that coffee accounts for one-third … Continue reading Ethiopia’s coffee sector faces EUDR compliance challenges as stakeholders validate key assessment
From scepticism to success: an inspirational journey with intercropping, a promising technology for dryland areas
In one of Ethiopia’s dryland areas Zequala woreda, where rainfall is unpredictable, 54-year-old farmer Assefa Gulash was once not very happy with the performance of his sorghum and teff crops. In the 2024 cropping season, however, Assefa’s fields tell a different story- intercropping of pearl millet and mung beans. Gazing proudly at the pile of … Continue reading From scepticism to success: an inspirational journey with intercropping, a promising technology for dryland areas
Food security challenges and the role ofpost-harvest losses
Ethiopia struggles with food insecurity worsened by substantial postharvest losses in its agriculture value chains. Recent estimates reveal significant loss rates of up to 30% for grains, 50% for fruits and vegetables, and 40% for red meat and milk. These losses exacerbate food insecurity in a country where millions already struggle to access adequate nutrition. … Continue reading Food security challenges and the role ofpost-harvest losses
Onion seed production initiative is showing promising results in Sire woreda
A collaborative effort between the Melkassa Agricultural Research Centre (MARC), the RAISE-FS Project, and local stakeholders is transforming agricultural practices in Sire woreda, with a focus on onion seed production. A recent field visit to the farm of Mr. Fetene Haylu Abate in Gassala Shashe kebele revealed the significant impact of this initiative on local … Continue reading Onion seed production initiative is showing promising results in Sire woreda
Driving change for healthy diets and sustainable livelihoods
The RAISEFS project is making strides in promoting healthier diets and sustainable livelihoods across Central Ethiopia, Oromia, and Tigray regions. By implementing the Ethiopian Food-Based Dietary Guidelines (FBDGs) one key message at a time, this initiative is creating a ripple effect of positive change. The six key messages—dietary diversity, legume consumption, fruits and vegetables, animal-source … Continue reading Driving change for healthy diets and sustainable livelihoods
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