Agricultural Development Policies and Strategies of Ethiopia

Ethiopia, with its vast agricultural potential and predominantly agrarian economy, has implemented
various agricultural development policies and strategies over the years to enhance food security, increase
productivity, and promote sustainable rural development. These policies and strategies aim to address
challenges such as low agricultural productivity, land degradation, limited access to markets and finance,
and vulnerability to climate change. Some of the key agricultural development policies and strategies of
Ethiopia are: Agricultural Development Led Industrialization (ADLI), Growth and Transformation Plan
(GTP), Productive Safety Net Program (PSNP), Climate-Resilient Green Economy Strategy (CRGE) and
establishment of Agricultural Transformation Agency (ATA). We will discuss about one of the policies
and strategies, ADLI, in this paper. First, let us define and differentiate policies strategies.
Policy is a set of principles, guidelines, or rules that guide decision-making and behavior within a
particular organization, institution, or system. Policies are created to give general guidlinesto achieve
specific objectives, address issues or concerns, and provide a framework for consistent and effective
decision-making. In the context of agricultural development, policy refers to the set of guidelines, rules,
and regulations established by governments or other relevant authorities to govern various aspects of
agricultural practices, production, and trade. Agricultural policies are designed to address specific goals
and challenges related to food production, rural development, environmental sustainability, and economic
stability within the agricultural sector.
On the other hand, srategy refers to a plan or approach designed to achieve a specific goal or set of
objectives. It involves making choices and allocating resources in order to position oneself or an
organization for success in a given context or competitive environment. In the context of agricultural
development, strategy refers to a systematic and coordinated plan of action designed to achieve specific
goals and objectives related to the agricultural sector. Policies and strategies are related concepts in the
context of planning and decision-making, but they have distinct characteristics and purposes. Here are the
similarities and differences between policies and strategies:
Similarities:
1. Both policies and strategies are goal oriented. This means they are developed to achieve specific goals
and objectives. They are designed to guide actions and shape outcomes in a particular domain, such as
agriculture, healthcare, or business.
2. Both Policies and strategies serve as tools for decision-making. They provide frameworks and
guidelines for making choices, setting priorities, and allocating resources effectively.
3. Both policies and strategies require implementation to bring about desired changes or outcomes. They
involve translating the plans into actions, allocating resources, and monitoring progress.
Differences:
1. Scope and Focus: Policies tend to be broader in scope and address overarching principles, guidelines,
and regulations. They provide a framework for decision-making across various areas and sectors.
Strategies, on the other hand, have a narrower focus. They are more specific and concrete, outlining a
plan of action to achieve a particular goal within a defined context.
2. Timeframe: Policies often have a longer timeframe and provide long-term direction and stability. They
can remain in place for years and guide decision-making over an extended period. Strategies, on the other
hand, are more time-bound and have a shorter-term perspective. They outline actions to be taken within a
specific timeframe to achieve desired outcomes.
3. Level of Detail: Policies tend to be more general and high-level, providing principles and guidelines for
decision-making. They may set out objectives, principles, and broad approaches but leave room for
interpretation and flexibility at the implementation level. Strategies, on the other hand, are more detailed
and specific. They outline specific actions, timelines, resources, and responsibilities required to achieve
the desired goals.
4. Hierarchy: Policies and strategies often exist within a hierarchical relationship. Policies provide the
overarching framework within which strategies are developed. Strategies are aligned with and derived
from policies, ensuring consistency and coherence in decision-making.
5. Stakeholder Involvement: Policies typically involve a broader range of stakeholders and may require
consultation, input, and approval from various entities, such as government bodies, regulatory agencies,
and public representatives. Strategies, on the other hand, often involve a narrower set of stakeholders
directly involved in the specific domain or sector being addressed.
In summary, policies provide high-level guidance and principles, while strategies offer detailed plans and
actions to achieve specific goals. Policies have a longer-term perspective and broader scope, while
strategies are more focused and time-bound. Both policies and strategies are essential tools for effective
planning and decision-making in various contexts.
Goals of Agricultural Development policy of Ethiopia
As per the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development Economic Policy and Planning Department
April, 2003, the goals of Agriciltural development policies of Ethiopia are:
1. Ensuring Food Security: Ethiopia has been striving to achieve self-sufficiency in food production and
reduce reliance on imports. The agricultural development policy aims to increase agricultural productivity
and improve access to food for the population.
2. Rural Development and Poverty Reduction: The policy seeks to alleviate poverty and promote rural
development by enhancing agricultural productivity, creating employment opportunities, and improving
rural infrastructure such as irrigation systems, roads, and market access.
3. Sustainable Agriculture: The Ethiopian government recognizes the importance of sustainable
agricultural practices to protect the environment and ensure long-term productivity. The policy
emphasizes the adoption of climate-smart agriculture, agroecology, and conservation practices to mitigate
the impact of climate change and promote sustainable resource management.
4. Market-oriented Agriculture: The policy encourages the commercialization of agriculture and the
development of agribusiness. It aims to enhance farmers' access to markets, promote value addition to
agricultural products, and attract private sector investment in the agricultural sector.
5. Technology and Innovation: The policy emphasizes the adoption and dissemination of improved
agricultural technologies, research and development, and innovation in the agricultural sector. This
includes the promotion of modern farming techniques, access to quality seeds and fertilizers, and the use
of mechanization and information and communication technologies (ICTs) to increase productivity.
6. Institutional and Policy Reforms: The government has been working on improving the governance and
institutional framework in the agricultural sector. This involves strengthening agricultural extension
services, enhancing farmer training and education, improving land tenure systems, and reviewing policies
and regulations to create an enabling environment for agricultural development. These are goals of
Agricultural development policy of Ethiopia. Next we will see ADLI which was one of Agricultural
development policies of Ethiopia.
Agricultural Development Led industrialization (ADLI)