December 12, 2024 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), in partnership with the Ethiopian Forestry Development (EFD), has launched a $10 million initiative to bolster climate resilience and sustainable development in Ethiopia. The project, titled “Promoting Adaptation and Resilience Through Innovation and Entrepreneurship for Green Jobs and Livelihood Improvement in Ethiopia,” is funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Least Developed Countries Fund (LDCF) and was approved by the GEF Council in 2024 to prepare a full sized project preparation.
At the project’s inception/preparation launch, H.E. Mr. Kebede Yimam, Director General of Ethiopian Forestry Development, emphasized the government’s readiness to implement the initiative in collaboration with UNIDO. The project focuses on lowland and pastoral communities in the Somali, Oromia, Tigray and Southern Ethiopia regions, supporting gum and resin production, animal feed, and food trees to foster economic empowerment and climate adaptation.
UNIDO Ethiopia’s Deputy Country Representative Mr. Asegid Adane highlighted the organization’s role in enhancing value addition and facilitating international market linkages for selected agricultural products in the target areas. The initiative aims to align interventions with global best practices, ensuring solutions address local challenges posed by a changing climate.
During the launch meeting, stakeholders received two detailed presentations. Ms. Yvonne Lokko, the project manager, outlined the project’s background and shared an overview of the approved Project Initiation Form (PIF). Additionally, an international consultant hired by UNIDO provided insights into the project’s methodology and approach, ensuring a strategic framework for its implementation.
This initiative is part of a larger regional effort under the PARS global programme, which addresses climate challenges through innovation. By creating a supportive policy environment, offering technical assistance, and improving access to financing, the program underscores the role of micro, small, and medium-scale enterprises (MSMEs) in driving climate solutions.
The project marks a significant milestone in Ethiopia’s journey toward sustainable development. By integrating innovation and entrepreneurship, it seeks to create green jobs and strengthen local economies.