By:Goshu Melisew

Ethiopia’s food future is sprouting in the hands of its youth. The Agroecology Startup Competition was held in Addis Ababa. Young innovators showcased bold ideas to secure sustainable food systems. The event was organized by the Ethiopian Sustainable Food Systems and Agroecology Consortium (ESFSAC) in collaboration with the Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA).

Bayush Tsegaye (PhD), Executive Director of ESFSAC, stressed that youth-led agroecology businesses are essential to preserve local seeds, protect soil fertility, andpublic health. “Sustainable food systems can only be achieved by building the knowledge and capacity of our youth. Collaboration and synergy will empower young people, women, and communities at large,” she said.

Million Belay (PhD), General Coordinator of AFSA, reaffirmed the alliance’s strong support for agroecology startups across Africa.

 He emphasized the alliance's commitment to secure a food system that is healthy, unpolluted, and just, while also advocating for the preservation of indigenous seeds and cultural foods through AFSA’s “My Food is Africa” campaign.

For his part Berhanu Adere, Head of Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development at the Ministry of Labour and Skills, highlighted Ethiopia’s determination to support startups. 

He noted that such initiatives are not only crucial for job creation but also for saving foreign currency. 

Congratulating the winners, he encouraged them to scale up their businesses and become role models for other young entrepreneurs.

The top three contestants were awarded reinforcement prizes to strengthen their startups, and they pledged to deliver more innovative solutions to ensure Ethiopia’s future food security.