Ethiopia Launches National Coffee Stakeholder Platform to Drive Sector Transformation
Ethiopia has inaugurated a National Coffee Stakeholder Engagement Platform, a landmark initiative designed to unify efforts across the coffee industry and bolster the country’s global standing as a premier coffee origin. The official launch, held at the Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa, marks the formation of the platform’s Steering Committee, bringing together farmers, exporters, government agencies, development partners, and private sector actors.
The initiative aims to streamline coordination across the coffee value chain, enhance productivity and quality, address persistent challenges, and improve transparency and efficiency at all levels—from farm to export.
Dr. Adugna Debela, Director-General of the Ethiopian Coffee and Tea Authority (ECTA), emphasized the platform’s critical role in mobilizing resources and aligning efforts. “This platform will not only address sectoral challenges and harness opportunities, but also ensure that progress is monitored, bottlenecks are identified early, and no region or actor is left behind,” he stated. “The Steering Committee is not just an administrative body—it is pivotal to shaping the future of Ethiopian coffee.”
Dr. Adugna added that the platform represents a shared national commitment to unlocking the full value of Ethiopia’s coffee, ensuring that its unique heritage and quality are translated into global competitiveness and sustainable income for producers.
H.E. Semereta Sewasew, State Minister of Finance and Chairperson of the Steering Committee, acknowledged the progress made in recent years, including record-breaking export figures, but noted that the sector continues to face serious headwinds. “Climate change, global market volatility, and regulatory challenges remain real threats,” she said, while praising the resilience of Ethiopian producers and the efforts of the ECTA.
UNDP Resident Representative Samuel G. Doe also addressed the gathering, stressing the significance of the platform in strengthening the sector and creating more equitable and sustainable opportunities. “The establishment of the Steering Committee is crucial for fostering collaboration, innovation, and resilience in Ethiopia’s coffee sector,” he said.
The National Coffee Stakeholder Engagement Platform is expected to provide a coordinated framework for aligning national policies, investments, and initiatives with the needs of stakeholders at every level of the value chain. By doing so, it seeks to elevate Ethiopia’s position in the global coffee market while ensuring inclusive growth and long-term sustainability.
