The Ethiopian Horticulture Producer Exporters Association (EHPEA) has been awarded a Certificate by one of its members in recognition primarily of its dedicated catalytic role in advancing sustainable horticulture in the country.
As EHPEA remains committed to supporting its members and promoting the industry‘s sustainability through various strategic interventions, Red Fox Ethiopia Plc (Dümmen Orange) has recognized the Association for its pivotal role in promoting, implementing and driving the adoption of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices across farms, while providing invaluable technical support and capacity-building training.
Red Fox Ethiopia Plc presented the Certificate to EHPEA during a ceremony the Company organize in Koka yesterday to inaugurate its dedicated, the first in Ethiopia, mass rearing facility of beneficial insects in Koka, East Shoa Zone of Oromia Regional State.
The Company has deeply appreciated EHPEA’s exceptional technical support and impactful training programs that continue to empower horticultural community in the country.
The EHPEA Executive Director Tewodros Zewdie says the Association has, over the last ten years, been working with its partners spearheading several mapping and research studies on pests, the major threat to the horticulture industry.
Tangible and encouraging results have been gained due to the course undertaken to promote improved pest control system and ensure industry sustainability, says Tewodros.
Through the Association’s specialized TVET, more than 32,500 industry workers have been trained in mapping, mass rearing and packaging beneficial insects, and over 95% of flower farms are now implementing IPM model, says the Executive Director.
Emphasizing on the need to expand the initiative at other farms, Tewodros hails the pioneering facility of Red Fox Ethiopia as it will have multifaceted contributions to the country’s horticulture, notably in reducing reliance on chemical pesticides and curbing residues on export cuttings, and thereby enhancing Ethiopia’s competitiveness in the global markets.
