Addis Ababa, March 27, 2024 9FBC) – A national launching program aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity through the application of lime to acidic soil has reportedly commenced today in Addis Ababa.
The conference was graced by the presence of Deputy Prime Minister Mr. Temesgen Truneh, Minister of Agriculture Girma Amente, Minister of Mines Habtamu Tegegn, as well as other high-ranking government officials and stakeholders.
During his address at the event, Agriculture Minister Girma Amente emphasized that the agricultural sector serves as the primary backbone of the country’s economy. He asserted that there has been substantial progress in production and productivity with the aim of augmenting the sector’s importance.
He specifically identified the widespread prevalence of acidic soil as a major obstacle to productivity in Ethiopia’s highlands and uplands, emphasizing the necessity for a concerted and extensive endeavor to address this issue. Girma highlighted that the soil’s acidity contributes to the deficiency of essential nutrients necessary for crop growth, consequently leading to a substantial decrease in crop yield.
He emphasized that the application of lime to acidic soil has consistently yielded significant improvements in crop production and overall productivity, as evidenced by research institutes, agricultural extension demonstrations, and various projects over the years.
The Minister stressed that addressing acidic soil necessitates cohesive leadership efforts that extend beyond the provision of lime. He stated that the government has prioritized the availability and accessibility of lime, ensuring its inclusion in the agricultural supply chain on par with other essential resources. As per the Agriculture Minister, this forum establishes the groundwork for initiating a transformative shift in production and productivity through the treatment of spreading acidic soil.
Additionally, the forum reportedly deliberated on the implementation document concerning the supply and distribution of agricultural lime.