Addisu Arega appointed as Ethiopia’s new Minister of Agriculture
The appointment follows a major US$69.2 million grant agreement with IFAD to support climate resilience in lowland communities.
ETHIOPIA – Mr. Addisu Arega has officially been named Ethiopia’s new Minister of Agriculture, the Office of the Prime Minister announced on Friday afternoon.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) made the appointment effective immediately.
Mr. Addisu, who previously served as the Coordinator of the Oromia Regional State Rural Cluster with the rank of Deputy Head of State, replaces Mr. Girma Amente.
The leadership change comes during an important period for Ethiopia’s agricultural sector, which is undergoing significant efforts to strengthen resilience in rural areas affected by climate change.
The announcement follows the recent signing of a USD 69.2 million grant agreement between the Government of Ethiopia and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
The funding will support the second phase of the Lowland Livelihoods Resilience Project (LLRP II), aimed at improving the lives of pastoral and agropastoral communities in Ethiopia’s lowland regions.
The grant was signed by Ethiopia’s Minister of Finance, H.E. Ahmed Shide, and IFAD President Mr. Alvaro Lario during the UN Food Systems Summit Stocktaking Moment (UNFSS+4) held in Addis Ababa.
“This partnership marks another step toward building strong rural communities that can withstand the effects of climate change,” said Mr. Lario.
He added that the project will provide long-term support to more than three million people across eight regions.
LLRP II will build on the achievements of the first phase. According to the Ministry of Finance, the project will expand early warning systems, improve sustainable rangeland use, and increase the adoption of farming practices that reduce exposure to climate risks.
The initiative also includes co-financing from the World Bank.
New Minister steps in during crucial period
With Mr. Addisu Arega now leading the Ministry of Agriculture, observers expect a continuation of Ethiopia’s rural development agenda.
His previous experience in coordinating rural efforts at the regional level is expected to support the smooth rollout of national programs like LLRP II.
Mr. Addisu takes over the ministry as Ethiopia moves forward with efforts to link climate resilience and economic development.
These efforts are critical as the country continues to work with partners such as IFAD and the World Bank to improve food systems and community wellbeing.
The coming months will test the strength of these partnerships and how they translate into real benefits for people in vulnerable areas.
For Mr. Addisu, the role comes with high expectations from both the government and development partners.
“This is a time for action and results,” a government official close to the matter said. “The leadership change reflects that.”
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