Ethiopia has launched a groundbreaking project aimed at restoring soil health and enhancing agricultural productivity across the country. Dubbed Transform Soil Fertility Management in Ethiopia (TRANSFORM), the initiative was unveiled in Addis Ababa today and is set to run from 2025 to 2028.
The project’s primary goal is to rehabilitate 65,000 hectares of farmland and support 100,000 smallholder farmers, empowering them to improve food security and combat land degradation.
Funded by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the European Union, TRANSFORM targets critical issues such as nutrient depletion, soil erosion, and the impacts of climate change on farming practices. The initiative will focus on the Amhara, Oromia, and Central Ethiopia regional states, areas that have been severely affected by soil degradation.
During the launch event, Mr. Eyasu Elias, State Minister at the Ministry of Agriculture, emphasized the importance of agriculture to Ethiopia’s economy, noting that it is vital for food security, employment, and overall economic development. He called for a collaborative approach to address the urgent challenges posed by soil degradation.
The Netherlands, a key partner in the initiative, was represented by Ms. Paula Schindeler, Deputy Ambassador and Head of Development Cooperation. Schindeler highlighted the strong historical partnership between the Netherlands and Ethiopia, noting the Netherlands’ long-term commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s development, particularly in agriculture and climate resilience.
She underscored that the TRANSFORM project’s focus on mobilizing smallholder farmers, especially women and youth, will be crucial in building resilience against extreme weather events.
The project will adopt the Integrated Farm Planning (PIP) approach, empowering local farmers to take ownership of land management and conservation practices. This holistic approach aims to not only restore soil fertility but also equip farmers with the tools and knowledge to sustainably manage their land and enhance productivity. The project will also promote regenerative agricultural practices, reducing Ethiopia’s reliance on imported fertilizers and supporting long-term environmental sustainability.
TRANSFORM is implemented in collaboration with several partners, including Wageningen University & Research, ISRIC – World Soil Information, and SOS Sahel Ethiopia.
