Category: Our News

The Ethiopian Horticulture Producer Exporters Association (EHPEA) recently hosted an event to introduce its services to potential members and stakeholders in the horticulture value chain. The goal? To help businesses like yours reach international standards and thrive in the global market.

Established in 2002, EHPEA is a leading business membership organization dedicated to promoting the interests of Ethiopian horticulture producers and exporters of cut flowers, fruits, vegetables, herbs, cuttings, and vegetable seeds. With 126 current members, EHPEA has been instrumental in the growth of Ethiopia’s horticulture industry, representing its members both locally and internationally.

What does EHPEA membership offer?

Becoming an EHPEA member unlocks a range of valuable benefits designed to boost your business:

• Networking Opportunities: Connect with key players across the horticulture industry, from growers and exporters to other vital stakeholders.

• Industry Insights: Stay ahead of the curve with access to the latest market trends, best practices, and regulatory updates.

• Advocacy and Representation: Have your voice heard and participate in shaping policies that impact the horticulture sector.

• Business Development Opportunities: Explore potential partnerships and collaborations with fellow members.

• Access to Training and Resources: Enhance your business skills and knowledge through workshops, seminars, and other valuable resources.

Real Results from EHPEA Members

Existing EHPEA members shared powerful testimonials at the event, highlighting the tangible benefits they’ve experienced:

• Policy Advocacy: EHPEA champions members’ interests at the policy level.

• Market Linkages: Connecting members with valuable market opportunities.

• Comprehensive Training: Providing training on crucial topics such as environmental management, occupational safety and health (OSH), chemical handling, and corporate social responsibility (CSR).

• Certification Support: Guiding members through the certification process, from Bronze to Gold, including pre-audits, document preparation, and follow-up, helping them achieve international competitiveness.

Ready to take your horticulture business to the next level? Join EHPEA today and unlock the potential for growth and success in the global market. Contact us to learn more about membership opportunities.

A valuable training session focused on False Codling Moth (FCM) was recently held for key personnel at farms in the Bahir Dar cluster, including Tana Flora, Ethio Agri-Ceft, and Elite Agro by EHPEA Bahirdar branch office. The training brought together farm managers, production managers, protection managers, and supervisors to enhance their knowledge and skills in managing this important pest.

The session covered a range of critical topics, including:

•  Understanding FCM and its life cycle

•  The global significance and distribution of FCM

•  Identification of major FCM host plants

•  Effective FCM management strategies at national and regional levels

Participants also engaged in a discussion of current and future FCM management practices. Farms are currently implementing practices like light traps, burning Agrobacterium (likely referring to infected plant material), sanitation, and host plant removal. Looking ahead, plans are in place to enhance these efforts with double-door systems, improved greenhouse plastic maintenance, pheromone traps, and the development of farm-specific FCM protocols. The session was highly interactive, and we are confident that these measures will significantly improve FCM management in the region.

Ethiopia has taken a significant step towards improving its horticulture sector with the launch of the LOCALGAP certification initiative. This groundbreaking effort focuses on promoting Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) in the fruit and vegetable industry, aiming to:

 * Enhance agricultural methods: Ensuring safe and sustainable farming practices.

 * Boost local food security: Providing access to nutritious produce for Ethiopian consumers.

 * Open new markets: Facilitating entry into both domestic and international markets.

The LOCALGAP standard was developed through a collaborative effort between the Ethiopian Horticulture Producer Exporters Association (EHPEA), the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA), and the Ethiopian Agricultural Authority (EAA).

Key Highlights:

 * Government Support: H.E. Dr. Meles Mekonnen, State Minister of Agriculture and Horticulture Development, emphasized the importance of LOCALGAP for public health and enhancing consumer confidence in local produce.

 * Market Access: Mr. Tewdros Zewdie highlighted the crucial role of LOCALGAP in gaining access to international markets.

 * Farmer Empowerment: Ato Wondale emphasized the importance of registration, certification, and standardization for improving farmer livelihoods and boosting sector productivity.

The first draft of the LOCALGAP standard has been presented and is currently undergoing review based on valuable feedback from stakeholders.

This initiative marks a significant milestone in the Ethiopian horticulture sector, paving the way for a more sustainable, productive, and competitive industry.

A consultative workshop held in Adama on December 31, 2024, marked a significant step forward in the development of the COMESA East Africa Horticulture Accelerator (CEHA) Roadmap for Ethiopia.

The workshop provided a valuable platform for government officials and key stakeholders in the horticulture sector to contribute to the refinement of the draft roadmap.

The CEHA national chapters will play a crucial role in amplifying stakeholder voices and driving local impact on sustainability and competitiveness. Mr. Tewodros Zewide, Executive Director of EHPEA, highlighted the roadmap’s objective to “harmonize policies and enhance free trade activities,” guided by the CEHA principle of being private-sector-led, public-sector-enabled, and donor-catalyzed.

H.E. Dr. Meles Mekonnen, State Minister of Agriculture, emphasized the platform’s support for Ethiopia’s efforts to build an inclusive and sustainable horticulture sector, fostering national, regional, and international food trade through effective collaboration, particularly within COMESA member countries in East Africa.

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has officially authorized the importation of fresh leaves and stems of rosemary and tarragon from Ethiopia into the continental United States.

This decision follows a thorough pest risk analysis, which was made available for public review and comment. Based on these findings, APHIS has determined that specific phytosanitary measures will effectively prevent the introduction and spread of plant pests and noxious weeds associated with these imports.

Imports of fresh rosemary and tarragon from Ethiopia are permitted to begin on December 20, 2024.

This development opens new avenues for trade between the United States and Ethiopia, benefiting both countries.

Currently, over 40 varieties are already being exported to the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and the UK.

The Ethiopian Agriculture Authority(EAA) and Ethiopian Horticulture Producer Exporters Association( EHPEA) hosted a validation workshop today at Capital Hotel on draft SYSTEMS APPROACH to contain False Codling Moth(FCM), a priority and quarantine pest of the European Union(EU).

EAA, EHPEA and growers have been deploying utmost efforts by working in unison to build capacity with regard to identification and management of FCM in the last two years, according to Ambassador Deriba Kuma, Director General of EAA.

Ambassador Deriba underscored the need to comply with the requirements of EU with regard to phytosanitary issues as floriculture industry is the second largest strategic export commodity of Ethiopia.

The director general stated that the concerted efforts have resulted in maximum self- policing at farms level which significantly led to declining trend of interceptions at EU borders.

Mr. Wondale Habtamu, Deputy Director General of EAA and Ethiopia’s NPPO on his part reiterated the readiness of his authority to take bold measures on non -complaint farms as far as the implementation of Systems Approach for FCM is concerned.

Participants drawn from cut flower farms from all clusters, research and academia and development partners were in attendance at the validation workshop.

The Ethiopian Horticulture Producer Exporters Association (EHPEA) made a strong presence at the International Floriculture Trade Fair (IFTF) this year in the Netherlands. With a record-breaking number of participants from around the world, IFTF 2024 solidified its position as the premier global platform for the floriculture industry.

EHPEA member farms, including Tinaw Flowers, Tana Flora, Ethio Agriceft, Roshrana, Friendship Flowers, Rainbow Colors, and Adam Horticulture, participated in the Ethiopian Pavilion showcasing their sustainable floriculture production. This provided a valuable opportunity for these farms to connect with international buyers, suppliers, and existing customers.

In addition to showcasing products, EHPEA used the platform to promote the upcoming 9th edition of HortiFlora Expo, scheduled for March 25-27, 2025, in Addis Ababa. This event is a key highlight of the Ethiopian floriculture calendar.

This year’s IFTF witnessed increased participation from African and South American countries. Uganda, for instance, made its debut with six growers in its national pavilion. Ethiopia and Kenya, key players in the global floriculture market, expanded their presence with multiple pavilions and individual exhibitors. South America, particularly Colombia and Ecuador, was well-represented, highlighting the region’s significant role in the international floral trade.

The Ethiopian Embassy in Doha recognized Ethiopian Horticulture Producer Exporters Association (EHPEA) for its outstanding contribution to the Doha International Horticultural Expo 2023.

EHPEA showcased the best of Ethiopia’s Horticulture industry and connected with key players in the Qatari market.

The Ethiopia Pavilion offered a captivating blend of culture, heritage, and innovation, highlighting the diversity of the country’s 80 ethnic groups.

Let’s celebrate the beauty and diversity of Ethiopia!

The Ethiopian Horticulture Producer Exporters Association (EHPEA) successfully conducted capacity-building training sessions in two rounds, held from September 19-20 and November 23-24, 2024, in Holeta and Bishoftu. The training focused on Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) and social dialogue, with a strong emphasis on mainstreaming Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) and gender equality.

The two-day workshop aimed to equip participants with a comprehensive understanding of labor and fundamental human rights. By fostering dialogue and promoting a cohesive workplace culture, the training aimed to create an environment conducive to enhanced productivity and employee well-being.

Representatives from various member farms, OSH officers, gender focal points, and trade unions from horticulture farms in Holeta, Sebeta, Bishoftu, Koka, and Batu actively participated in the training.

Key Training Objectives:

Strengthen participants’ understanding of labor and fundamental human rights.

Promote effective collective bargaining and social dialogue processes.

Mainstream OSH and gender equality considerations in workplace practices.

Foster a positive and inclusive workplace culture.

The capacity-building training was a valuable initiative by EHPEA in promoting responsible and sustainable practices within the Ethiopian horticulture sector. By investing in the development of its workforce, EHPEA is contributing to a more equitable and productive industry.