National Agroecology Strategy for Food System Transformation in Ethiopia (2026 to 2040)

The agricultural sector remains the backbone of Ethiopia’s economy and the primary source of livelihood for the majority of our rural population. Yet, despite its central role, agricultural production has long been dominated by smallholder and predominantly rain-fed systems, making it highly vulnerable to climate variability and extremes. At the same time, land degradation,
biodiversity loss, declining soil fertility and increasing population pressure continue to undermine productivity, resilience and rural livelihoods. Addressing these interconnected challenges requires a transformative approach that strengthens food and nutrition security while restoring and safeguarding our natural resource base.
In line with Ethiopia’s national development priorities and our broader commitments to sustainable and climate-resilient growth, the Ministry of Agriculture is mandated to lead efforts that enhance the productivity of land and water resources, reduce environmental degradation, and support inclusive rural development. Agroecology is well positioned to advance these objectives. It offers a comprehensive and science-informed approach that integrates ecological principles with local knowledge, strengthens diversified and resilient farming and pastoral systems, improves soil health and water management, supports biodiversity, and enhances the sustainability and profitability of food systems. Globally, agroecology is increasingly recognized as a pathway to reconcile productivity with environmental stewardship, and to deliver multiple benefits for communities, landscapes and national development.
Ethiopia has a rich heritage of practices aligned with agroecological principles – such as integrated crop–livestock systems, soil and water conservation, community-based watershed management, indigenous and farmer-led innovation, and diverse agroforestry and rangeland management systems. Building on these experiences, and responding to emerging national needs and global opportunities, the Government of Ethiopia has taken important steps to promote sustainable land management, landscape restoration and climate-smart agriculture. The Ethiopian National Agroecology Strategy (NAES) and its Implementation Matrix provide a coherent national framework to consolidate these efforts, guide coordinated investment, and support systematic scaling of agroecological approaches across Ethiopia’s diverse livelihoods.
Developed through an inclusive, year-long process led by the Ministry of Agriculture, and enriched by extensive national and regional consultations, the NAES reflects the shared vision and collective commitment of government institutions, research and higher learning organizations, civil society, development partners and the private sector. The Strategy sets clear directions and priorities to strengthen enabling policies, build institutional and human capacity, foster innovation and evidence systems, improve market incentives, and ensure inclusive governance and accountability so that agroecology translates into practical, locally adapted solutions and measurable outcomes.