Addis Ababa: September 30, 2026 (Ministry of Agriculture) โ The Governments of Ethiopia ๐ช๐น and Japan ๐ฏ๐ต have signed a JPY 360 million (approximately ETB 375 million) grant agreement aimed at accelerating the modernization of Ethiopiaโs rice sector through the provision of agricultural machinery and equipment.
The agreement was signed by H.E. Ahmed Shide, Minister of Finance of Ethiopia, H.E. Ambassador Shibata Hironori, representing the Government of Japan, and Mr. Hiroyuki Yakushi, Chief Representative of the JICA Ethiopia Office. The grant will finance the procurement of combine harvesters, tractors, rice-milling machines, and land-preparation equipment to strengthen rice production, improve processing efficiency, and reduce post-harvest losses.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, H.E. Ahmed Shide emphasized that agriculture remains central to Ethiopiaโs economic transformation, food security, and rural development. He said the government is prioritizing modern, technology-driven agriculture to increase productivity, improve farmersโ incomes, and reduce dependence on food imports.
Ambassador Shibata Hironori reaffirmed Japanโs commitment to supporting Ethiopiaโs agricultural development and food security efforts, noting that the grant reflects the strong and longstanding partnership between the two countries.
JICA Ethiopia Chief Representative Hiroyuki Yakushi highlighted JICAโs continued support for Ethiopiaโs agricultural transformation, particularly in rice sector development, and expressed confidence that the project would contribute to sustainable growth and improved livelihoods for farmers.
Representing the Ministry of Agriculture, Abera Lema, Advisor to the state minister for Agricultural Input and Investment sector, welcomed the support, noting that low levels of mechanization remain a major challenge to agricultural productivity. He said the grant aligns with Ethiopiaโs agricultural transformation priorities and will help improve productivity, reduce inefficiencies, and strengthen food security.
The two governments reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the efficient and transparent implementation of the grant, underscoring their shared vision of advancing sustainable agricultural development and inclusive economic growth in Ethiopia.
