#UNIDO, with the support of #BMZ Special initiative “Decent work for a just transition” in Ethiopia, has provided working equipment and tools for SME groups in Oromia.
The provision of working equipment and tools for SME groups in Oromia by UNIDO, with the support of the BMZ Special has far-reaching benefits. This support includes tools and PPE equipment for Vegetable Packhouse SME, and Chemical Spraying Equipment & Tools for Chemical spray service providing groups found under #Meki FCU.
The provision of the Vegetable Pack House equipment and tools will enhance the efficiency of vegetable processing and packaging, reduce post-harvest losses, and promote hygienic practices in the sector. The chemical spraying equipment and tools for chemical spray service groups will aid in pest and disease control, leading to increased crop yields and improved food security.
The CEO of the #Oromia IPDC’s Ms Senait Mebrie expressed her gratitude for UNIDO and said that the support demonstrates the importance of such initiatives in promoting sustainable development in the agro-processing sector. She also mentioned that the support will undoubtedly go a long way in adding value to the sector and promoting food safety.
Mr. Kumasa, Meki Batu FCU Manager has also said that “It’s great to see that #UNIDO #BMZ SI was able to provide such valuable support to Meki FCU and the Primary Cooperative unions. In addition to the equipment support trainings were provided by UNIDO for improving quality management, and the intiative also helped create more job opportunities for people in the community. It’s especially encouraging to see that 201 men (chemical spraying) and 90 women (vegetable pack house) were able to benefit from different capacity building training schemes and working equipment supported by the project. The provision of necessary equipment is also an important aspect of the support provided by UNIDO. Having access to the (basic working equipment’s) tools and resources can make all the difference in the success of a business or cooperative. “
The Meki Batu Union has 8450 farmer members under it within 153 primary cooperative unions. The union has strong market linkages with domestic and local markets, such as Ethiopian Airlines, Arsi and Ambo Universities. They have also applied & registered to join Bulbula IAIP and completed a feasibility study for tomato processing in collaboration with UNILEVER.
Muluneh UNIDO NPC for BMZ SI expressed his gratitude to the Oromia IPDC, Meki Batu Union, and the Ethiopian Horticulture Producers and Exports Association (EHPEA) for their support in realizing the initiatives. It is clear that these partnerships are vital to the success of UNIDO’s ongoing efforts to support economic development and build resilience in rural communities.
He also mentioned that UNIDOs work in the Oromia region with the Hitosa Union to establish a modern poultry farm called Poultry-Preneurship is part of UNIDO’s ongoing efforts to build resilience among vulnerable and marginalized rural women. The initiative provides material support, capacity building training and technical support to the poultry farm under establishment including the additional 25 women organized and linked to the union for poultry business helping them to weather economic and climate change shocks.
In addition to this, UNIDO has also purchased bakery machinery to support an SME in Bulbula IAIP. The SMEs have received capacity building training on various topics to help them succeed in the competitive bakery industry.
During the ceremony, several important points were discussed and highlighted by the attendees and the presence of the Oromia Bureau of Agriculture Deputy Head and Oromia IPDC management members demonstrated the government’s commitment to supporting and promoting sustainable agriculture practices in the region.
The successful handover of equipment is a significant milestone for the Farmer Cooperative Unions and a testament to their hard work and dedication to improving their communities’ livelihoods through agriculture.
#UNIDO, #BMZ SI, #IAIP, #OIPDC