UNOPS hands over surveying drones to support smart farming in Ethiopia

ETHIOPIA – The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) has handed over nine surveying drones to Ethiopia’s Ministry of Irrigation and Lowlands to support smart farming and improve food production across the country. 

The handover ceremony took place on October 7 in Addis Ababa and was attended by His Excellency Dr. Abraham Belay, Minister of Irrigation and Lowlands.

The drones are built with advanced sensors that help farmers estimate crop yields before harvest. By providing early forecasts, they give farmers time to plan better for markets and household needs. 

The same technology can detect early signs of pests and diseases, reducing losses that often come when problems are noticed too late.

Officials noted that the drones will also strengthen irrigation and soil management. By tracking water distribution and fertilizer use, the devices can help prevent waste, protect plants from damage, and improve overall harvests. 

The high-quality images produced can be turned into vegetation maps that guide farmers and experts in making better choices about crop rotation and land use.

Beyond crops, the drones offer additional uses in rural areas. They can support forestry and wetland management, and even allow farmers to remotely monitor livestock. With this feature, communities can check on cattle to ensure they graze safely and access water without always being physically present.

“These drones will give the Ministry of Irrigation and Lowlands powerful tools to better serve farmers across Ethiopia,” said Ms. Worknesh Mekonnen, UNOPS Director for the Horn of Africa Multi Country Office and Djibouti, and Representative to the African Union. 

“By helping the Ministry monitor crops, water use, and livestock more effectively, the drones will support smarter decisions that directly benefit rural communities. Our partnership is about providing the Ministry with the necessary support in key areas, enabling it to play a stronger role in advancing Ethiopia’s national strategy for enhanced productivity, food security, and sustainable development.”

Expanding partnerships

Ethiopia has been increasing its focus on technology-driven farming solutions in recent years. The government has identified agriculture as a key sector for growth and resilience, and international partners have stepped in to support these goals. UN agencies, non-profits, and private sector actors are working closely with Ethiopian institutions to improve farming practices and secure food for the future.

The drone handover is one of several steps in this wider effort. Recently, Ethiopia also partnered with the African Development Bank to expand irrigation projects aimed at reaching more rural communities. 

Combined with the drone technology, these initiatives show the government’s commitment to bringing modern tools into farming and ensuring that smallholder farmers remain central to the country’s development agenda.

With these advances, Ethiopian farmers are expected to gain not only stronger harvests but also more reliable ways to safeguard their livelihoods in the face of changing climate conditions.

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