National Potato Research and Development Workshop

The Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR), together with the Irish Potato Research & Development Association (IPRADA) and several development partners, organized a National Potato Research and Development Workshop in Addis Ababa from March 17–19, 2026.

This three‑day event brought together researchers, policymakers, private sector representatives, and farmers to exchange knowledge and strengthen collaboration across Ethiopia’s potato sector. The workshop served as a platform to review progress made in potato research over the past two decades and to identify strategies for future growth.

Opening remarks highlighted the importance of potato as a strategic crop for Ethiopia’s food system. Speakers emphasized its potential to deliver high yields in a short time, making it vital for food security and affordable nutrition. Leaders from EIAR and IPRADA stressed the need for continued investment in research, innovation, and market development to enhance productivity and resilience.

Keynote presentations explored themes such as the role of potato in national transformation, inclusive value chain development, and private sector engagement. Contributions from international partners, including the Embassy of Ireland, SNV, and GIZ, underscored the global relevance of potato research and its impact on livelihoods.

The program featured more than 65 oral presentations and 19 poster sessions, alongside exhibitions of potato‑based products. Private sector actors, including PepsiCo, showcased innovations in value addition and market expansion.

Overall, the workshop reinforced the importance of collaboration, evidence‑based dialogue, and inclusive approaches to accelerate the transformation of Ethiopia’s potato industry.

Celebrating Potato Day in Ethiopia

On May 28, 2026, the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR), in partnership with the Irish Potato Research and Development Association (IPRADA), marked the 3rd International Day of Potato (IDP) in Addis Ababa. The celebration was held under the global theme “Where Potatoes Grow, Livelihoods Flourish” and brought together researchers, policymakers, private sector representatives, and stakeholders from across the potato value chain.

The United Nations General Assembly officially recognized May 30 as the International Day of Potato in 2023, building on the legacy of the International Year of Potato (2008). This observance highlights the crop’s role in tackling hunger, improving nutrition, and contributing to the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Potato is one of Ethiopia’s most important highland crops, supporting smallholder farmers and strengthening rural economies. The event emphasized its contribution to food security, climate resilience, and sustainable agrifood systems.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Fikadu Gurumu, Director of EIAR’s Crop Research Directorate, noted that this year’s theme reflects the potato’s global importance in improving livelihoods and building resilient food systems. He stressed the crop’s potential to drive Ethiopia’s agricultural transformation and economic growth.

Gebremedhin Woldegiorgis, Manager of IPRADA, presented “Why the International Day of Potato Matters”, highlighting the crop’s role in poverty reduction, resilience building, and inclusive agrifood systems worldwide. He also connected potato development to the SDGs and called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders.

Technical presentations covered topics such as potato’s nutritional value, its role in climate‑smart agriculture, and the current state of potato marketing in Ethiopia. Adey Melese from EIAR’s Food Science and Nutrition Directorate emphasized the crop’s contribution to household food security, while Dr. Tadele Mamo and colleagues discussed market opportunities and challenges.

The private sector also participated actively. Lolichips shared insights on sourcing quality raw materials for processing and showcased a range of potato‑based products, demonstrating the growing potential of value addition and agro‑processing in Ethiopia.

The celebration concluded with a strong commitment from institutions and stakeholders to continue investing in research, innovation, and collaboration. Participants reaffirmed that potato is not only a strategic crop for food and nutrition security but also a driver of economic growth, employment, and sustainable agricultural development.

Signing Ceremony of Founding Members to Establish Irish Potato Coalition in Ethiopia (IPC/E) as Local Organization

Signing Ceremony of Founding Members to Establish Irish Potato Coalition in Ethiopia (IPC/E) as Local Organization