Aisha emphasized the integral role of these research insights in formulating the upcoming irrigation road map. Currently, only 1.3 million hectares of the available cultivable land in Ethiopia are being utilized for irrigation purposes. Furthermore, traditional irrigation systems still dominate the cultivation landscape, encompassing approximately 70% of the land currently under irrigation. State Minister for Irrigation and Lowlands, Birhanu Megersa, stated that the recently published study will establish a crucial foundation for future irrigation standards and development programs. Prior to this initiative, Ethiopia used to import 17 million quintals of wheat annually, amounting to $700 million.

Source: Ethiopian News July 25, 2023 13:56 UTC