Semera, September 20, 2026 (Ministry of Agriculture) The 2nd Ethiopian International Date Palm Festival began today in Semera, the capital of the Afar Region.
Taking place from September 20 to 22, 2026, the festival is organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Khalifa International Award for Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation, and the Afar National Regional State.
To accelerate investment, innovation, and sustainable development in Ethiopia’s growing date palm sector, the event brings together local and international date producers, investors, researchers, development partners, and policy makers.
H.E Awal Arba, President of the Afar Region, stated that efforts are underway to boost productivity in the region by expanding research work and building the capacity of the farming community.
Wondale Habtamu (PhD), Deputy Director General of the Ethiopian Agriculture Authority, noted that Ethiopia possesses a suitable ecosystem for date production, particularly in its lowland areas. Dr. Wondale explained that the festival will create significant momentum in accelerating investment, innovation, and sustainable development within the country’s growing date sector.
H.E. Mohamed Salem Al Rashdi, UAE Ambassador to Ethiopia, noted on his part that the festival serves as a testament to the growing, multifaceted relationship between Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates. He added that the UAE will continue to strengthen its partnership by providing professional and varied support to boost date production and productivity in Ethiopia.
Prof. Abdelouahhab Alboukhari Zaid, Secretary General of the Khalifa International Award for Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation, stated that the festival aims to serve beyond a local event as a hub for knowledge exchange and cooperation across Africa.
In this 2nd Ethiopian International Date Palm Festival, research papers will be presented, field visits conducted, and a date palm product exhibition held.
