The Ethiopia office of the Sasakawa Africa Association (SAA) and the Food and Land Use Coalition (FOLU) jointly hosted a high-level convergence forum in Hawassa last December under the theme “Regenerative and Nature-Positive Agriculture for Climate-Resilient Food Systems”.

The forum brought together government institutions, research organizations, private sector actors, and development partners to explore pathways for scaling regenerative agriculture (RA) and strengthening Ethiopia’s food system resilience in the face of climate change and land degradation.

Addressing Land Degradation and Scaling Regenerative Solutions

During the event, various emerging issues drew significant attention. The MoA presented on the state of land degradation and its implications for national food security, while the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR) focused on watershed development strategie. The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) addressed opportunities within the circular bioeconomy. SAA shared practical experience in promoting Regenerative Agriculture (RA), demonstrating how soil restoration, biofertilizer use, and climate-smart farming practices can improve productivity while protecting natural resources. FOLU and RAISE-FS presented updates on Ethiopia’s national RA strategy, outlining policy alignment and scaling priorities.

Private Sector Innovations in Regenerative Agriculture

The forum also highlighted the critical role of private sector engagement in advancing sustainable agriculture. Menagesha Integrated Organic Farm (MIOF) PLC presented the vital role of Phosphate-Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB) and legume seedling provision in advancing RA, while MAKOBU PLC discussed Conservation Agriculture (CA) approaches tailored to commercial agribusinesses.

SAA’s efforts in promoting biofertilizers was recognized as instrumental in raising awareness, stimulating demand for eco-friendly inputs, and integrating sustainable practices into RA.

Linking Regenerative Agriculture and Renewable Energy

The discussions also emphasized the integration of renewable energy solutions within climate-resilient food systems. SNV presented on the nexus between RA and renewable energy, highlighting biogas and bio-slurry technologies that support clean energy access while enriching soils. Additionally, CropLife addressed pesticide safety and responsible input use, while Canadian Foodgrains Bank (CFGB) shared experiences with Conservation Agriculture Plus (CA+) and Nature+ approaches in strengthening resilience.

Strengthening Partnerships for Climate-Resilient Food Systems

The forum generated dynamic discussions on scaling sustainable agricultural innovations and reinforcing multi-stakeholder collaboration.  Participants reaffirmed the urgency of exploring sustainable solutions to counter mounting climate and environmental pressures, emphasizing that agricultural productivity must advance in harmony with ecological integrity.

The convergence concluded with a strong call for strengthened partnerships, policy alignment, and coordinated action to accelerate the transition toward regenerative, nature positive, and climate-resilient food systems in Ethiopia.