Ethiopia's Farming Bottlenecks: 40 Analytical Studies Complete

The Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Institute (ATI) has completed 40 analytical studies targeting systemic bottlenecks in Ethiopia’s agricultural sector, providing a data-driven roadmap toward the country’s 2030 agricultural vision, according to its latest annual report. “These studies mark a year of consolidation, scale, and resilience,” said ATI chief executive Mandefro Nigussie. “By pinpointing systemic constraints and piloting solutions, we are laying the foundation for a modern, market-oriented, and inclusive agricultural sector.” The research, conducted by ATI’s Analytics Team, combined local diagnostics with international benchmarking to produce actionable insights on institutional reform, rural development, and resource management. The studies informed the creation of a National Rural Transformation Roadmap, drawing lessons from China, Vietnam, and South Korea, aimed at eliminating duplication and improving coordination across government and regional agencies. In parallel, ATI played a central role in facilitating the approval and nationwide socialisation of the revised Agricultural and Rural Development Policy. “We advanced key reforms such as pluralistic agricultural extension, commercialization of public agricultural research, cooperative societies reform, and digital agriculture systems,” Mandefro added. A diagnostic study of rangelands affecting over 10 million pastoralists led to the establishment of the National Rangeland Monitoring System (NRMS), which integrates satellite and ground data to provide real-time monitoring and early warnings in climate-sensitive areas. Regional roadmaps for Amhara and Oromia identified priority interventions that have already strengthened planning and execution of local initiatives. A comprehensive assessment of land, water, agroecology, and human capital indicates that Ethiopia could emerge as a leading global producer of wheat, maize, coffee, and dairy within two to three decades if policies are aligned effectively. The studies have been paired with practical pilot initiatives. Evidence from the research guided the launch of the Agricultural Commercialization Clusters Phase II (ACCII), reaching 6.5 million farmers across nine regions, and supported the adoption of the Pluralistic Agricultural Extension Proclamation, decentralising and modernising advisory services for smallholders. The studies also underpin the “Digital Stack” and “Enabling Environment” pillars of Ethiopia’s Digital Agriculture Roadmap, providing a foundation for modernization rooted in data rather than conjecture.