OCP Africa’s involvement in the Climate Resilient Wheat Value Chain Development Project in Ethiopia
By Edward Makuzva
OCP Africa has joined forces with the Ethiopian Ministry of Agriculture, the African Development Bank, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and the Global Center on Adaptation to launch Ethiopia’s Climate Resilient Wheat Value Chain Development Project.
The project, inaugurated on May 20, saw the presence of HE Dr. Girma Amente, Ethiopia’s Minister of Agriculture.
OCP Africa’s CEO, Dr. Mohamed Anouar Jamali, highlighted the company’s commitment to addressing Ethiopia’s soil challenges, including salinity and acidity.
“OCP Africa’s support for this project will address the unique soil challenges in Ethiopia,” said Dr. Jamali. “By conducting comprehensive assessments of the local soil, climate, and cropping systems, we will develop customized solutions to improve soil health and fertility. This science-based approach, combined with a comprehensive program of capacity building and farmer training in best agricultural practices, will contribute to closing the yield gap in Ethiopia’s wheat value chain.”
The initiative aims to map one million hectares of soil, reach over one million farmers through various programs, and establish four Farmer Hubs across the country. The collaboration with the Ethiopian Ministry of Agriculture has already shown promising outcomes.
Since 2019, OCP Africa has developed and tested customized fertilizer formulas, significantly enhancing productivity on acidic soils. Dr. Jamali noted that large-scale demonstrations, conducted in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture and other regional institutes, have confirmed substantial yield increases using these adapted formulas.
“As OCP Africa embarks on this journey, the commitment remains strong to supporting Ethiopia’s efforts towards a resilient and sustainable agricultural sector,” Dr. Jamali added.
