UNFSS+4 delegates commend Ethiopia’s agricultural research and climate-smart innovations

Addis Ababa, July 27, 2025 (FMC) — Participants of the 2nd UN Food Systems Summit Stocktaking Moment (UNFSS+4), taking place in Addis Ababa, have lauded Ethiopia’s efforts in agricultural research and innovation after visiting the Melkassa Agricultural Research Center and the Dina Food Processing Plant.

The delegates, who came from various regions of the world, witnessed firsthand the country’s initiatives aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and ensuring food security through science-based, climate-resilient solutions.

At the Melkassa Agricultural Research Center — one of 22 centers under the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR) — researchers are developing technologies suited for tropical and sub-tropical fruit crops like mango, banana, and citrus, as well as warm-season vegetables and lowland pulse crops.

Director General of the Center, Niguse Dechassa, emphasized the role of collaboration in transforming food systems and noted that the work at Melkassa is aligned with global efforts to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“As we gather here at Melkassa in the context of the UN Food Systems Summit, we are not only recognizing the importance of sustainable food systems but also celebrating the power of innovation in shaping a resilient agricultural future,” Niguse said.

Delegates expressed appreciation for Ethiopia’s focused approach to climate-smart agriculture, stating that the work being done at Melkassa offers valuable lessons for countries confronting the twin challenges of food insecurity and climate change.

The UNFSS+4 summit, co-hosted by Ethiopia and Italy, is being held from July 27–29, 2025, and brings together policymakers, researchers, and development partners to assess global progress in transforming food systems.