Ethiopia’s Ministry of Agriculture on Thursday disclosed that agriculture has registered an average growth rate of 6 percent in the last four years as agricultural productivity increased from 13 to 21 quintals per hectare. The Comprehensive African Agricultural Development Programme (CAADP) calls on African countries to allocate 10 percent of their national budget to agriculture and envisages registering 6 percent annual growth in the sector.
Director of Public Relations with the Ministry, Alemayehu Berhanu said that Ethiopia planned to register 8.6 percent average annual agricultural growth by the end of the first GTP period (Over the last four years).
He added, though this ambitious plan could not be met, the country was able to register an average growth of 6.6 percent, which is well beyond the target set by CAADP.
“The extensive efforts exerted during the First GTP have contributed to an increase in productivity from 13 to 21 quintals per hectare. This improvement is attributed to the intensive training and mobilization of farmers made at the grassroots level.� the director stated.
The Director further noted that the Ministry is striving to realize the potential of producing 50-60 quintals per hectare.
The national crop production has now reached three quintals per person on average, Alemayehu said.
He added if this trend continues, the country will not only ensure reliable food reserve but also have the capacity to create significant national capital.
Source: starafrica
