POLICY ADVOCACY

EHPEA’s Progress in Improving the Ethiopian Horticulture Sector

The Ethiopian Horticulture Producer Exporters Association (EHPEA) has made significant strides in improving the business climate for the horticulture sector. Key achievements include:

• Land Lease Issues Resolved: Successful negotiations have addressed pending land lease agreements for farms in Batu and Bishoftu.
• Tax-Related Challenges Addressed: EHPEA has facilitated discussions to resolve tax-related issues, including unjustified tax claims and the application of the 65/35 principle.
• Incentive Package Revised: The incentive package for the importation of capital goods has been updated to align with the current economic landscape.
• Public-Private Partnerships Strengthened: Four public-private partnership dialogue forums have been organized to address sector challenges and opportunities.
• Cluster-Based Meetings and Training: EHPEA has conducted cluster-based meetings to resolve issues like salary increments and internal disputes and provided capacity-building training to task force members.
• Studies and Assessments Conducted: EHPEA has conducted studies on tax-related challenges, input-output coefficients, export earnings retention, and cluster-specific needs.
• Advocacy and Lobbying: EHPEA has advocated for various issues, including the revision of wall and roof taxes, access to finance, and improved peace and security in farming regions.

These efforts have contributed to a more favorable business environment for horticulture farms in Ethiopia and have positioned the sector for sustainable growth.

CAPACITY BUILDING

The Ethiopian Horticulture Producer Exporters Association (EHPEA) has made significant progress in enhancing its training services to support the sector’s growth and sustainability. Key achievements include:

EHPEA Strengthens Training Services for Horticulture Sector

• Legal Framework Development: EHPEA is developing a robust legal framework for its TVET center, including Articles of Association, bylaws, and operating procedures.
• Curriculum Expansion: Four new units of competence have been developed, covering essential skills in quality standards, nursery activities, and postharvest handling.
• E-Learning Platform Development: EHPEA has developed e-learning modules on farm operations and established a comprehensive e-learning and knowledge management system.
• Trainer Certification: Four trainers have achieved Level One Certification of Competence in Basic Horticulture Crop Production.
• License Renewal: EHPEA successfully renewed its training center license for two years.
• Training Program Delivery: EHPEA has conducted various training programs on safe pesticide use, pesticide storekeeping, farm safety, environment committees, crop scouting, and FCM management.

These initiatives have equipped horticulture farms with essential skills, knowledge, and techniques, fostering a more sustainable and competitive sector.

EHPEA’s Gender and Sustainable Development Initiatives

EHPEA has successfully implemented various gender-related training programs and initiatives to promote sustainable development and create equitable workplaces within the horticulture sector.

Key accomplishments include:

• Gender Transformative Training: Conducted training for 18 participants from eight farms on integrating gender-transformative practices into farm operations.
• Gender Auditing and Budgeting: Trained 16 management teams on gender-responsive budgeting and auditing, empowering them to create equitable workplace environments.
• Workplace Sexual Harassment Prevention: Delivered training to 148 gender committee members on preventing workplace sexual harassment and GBV.
• Conflict Management and Grievance Handling: Trained 70 participants on effective conflict resolution and grievance handling mechanisms.
• Committee Awareness Creation: Conducted follow-up visits to assess the impact of committee awareness creation programs.
• Gender-Related Training for Men: Provided training to 145 male employees on challenging harmful gender norms and promoting gender equality.
• VAWG Training: Trained 130 gender committee members on violence against women and girls (VAWG).
• HR and Conflict Management Training: Trained HR managers and farm managers on relevant topics.
• Corporate Due Diligence Workshop: Organized a workshop on the German Act on Corporate Due Diligence and the EU regulation.
• Experience Sharing: Conducted experience-sharing sessions on SRHR, GE, and OSH practices.

These initiatives have contributed to creating more inclusive and equitable workplaces, promoting gender equality, and advancing sustainable development within the horticulture sector.

PROMOTION OF THE SECTOR AND MARKET LINKAGE

EHPEA Drives Horticulture Sector Growth Through Strategic Initiatives

The Ethiopian Horticulture Producers and Exporters Association (EHPEA) has been instrumental in promoting investment and exports within the Ethiopian horticulture sector. Here’s a concise overview of their achievements:

• International Representation: The Ethiopian Horticulture Producers and Exporters Association (EHPEA) has successfully promoted Ethiopian horticulture products on the international market through active participation in four trade fairs. These events provided a platform for EHPEA to connect with over 246 potential buyers, fostering business opportunities and expanding the sector’s reach.

By showcasing Ethiopia’s diverse range of horticulture products, EHPEA has strengthened the country’s reputation as a reliable and competitive supplier.

• Experience Sharing Events: EHPEA facilitated knowledge sharing through events like the “FCM experience sharing program” which empowered flower farms to combat False Codling Moth (FCM). Additionally, a media tour program raised awareness about advancements in Ethiopian horticulture.
• Promotional Materials: EHPEA published informative booklets and folders highlighting investment opportunities and sector updates. They also distributed New Year giveaways and maintained a strong social media presence to promote the sector.

These initiatives have significantly contributed to:

• Promoted Ethiopian Horticulture Brand: By showcasing Ethiopia’s potential, EHPEA promoted the country horticulture sector globally.
• Export Market Growth: Participation in international fairs and buyer connections have expanded export opportunities for member farms.
• Knowledge Sharing and Capacity Building: Educational events and media outreach have empowered stakeholders and improved farming practices.
• Sector Visibility: EHPEA’s promotional efforts have enhanced the global recognition of Ethiopian horticulture.

In conclusion, EHPEA’s commitment to promoting investment, exports, and knowledge sharing has positioned Ethiopia’s horticulture sector for sustainable growth and international success.