Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – September 24, 2025 – Ethiopia is stepping up its efforts to transform rural livelihoods, and the Ministry of Finance, in partnership with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), is leading the way. Today’s Joint Project Portfolio Review brought together government leaders, development experts, and project teams to assess ongoing initiatives and chart the path for stronger, more resilient rural communities.

The review was opened by H.E. Semereta Sewasew, State Minister of Finance, and IFAD Country Director Mawira Chitima, with participation of high dignitaries from beneficiary sectors and Project Implementation Units staff. H.E. Semereta highlighted IFAD’s pivotal role in boosting financial inclusion, food security, and smallholder empowerment, while mobilizing complementary co-financing under the new IFAD cycle.

H.E. Ato Abdurahman Abdella, State Minister of Irrigation and Lowlands, emphasized how irrigation and climate-smart practices are transforming rural livelihoods. H.E. Dr. Emebet, President of the Development Bank of Ethiopia, also stressed the importance of financial inclusion and sustainable rural financing in empowering rural communities. Mr. Mawira Chitima highlighted IFAD’s focus on innovative solutions, digital technologies, and private sector engagement to build resilient rural economies.

The review showcased Ethiopia’s major rural development initiatives, including the Lowlands Livelihoods Resilience Project (LLRP), reaching five million people in pastoralists and agro-pastoralists; the Participatory Agriculture and Climate Transformation Programme (PACT), supporting 150,000 vulnerable households; the Rural Financial Intermediation Programme III (RUFIP III), offering 13.5 million households access to credit, savings, micro-insurance, and digital financial services; and integrated water resources management projects, improving water availability and governance for rural communities. IFAD's support has reached over 10 million people, with a contribution of $277.4 million and total co-financing of approximately $1.2 billion.

By sharing experiences, insights, and best practices, the Joint Project Portfolio Review strengthens the Ethiopia-IFAD partnership, enhances project implementation, and paves the way for lasting, inclusive, and innovative rural development across the country.