Supporting the avocado value chain – the example of Ethiopia

As part of the MAHEBER programme, COLEAD continues to support the sustainable strengthening of the horticultural sector in Ethiopia through complementary actions that combine improved production practices with the structuring of sustainability approaches within companies.

In Addis Ababa, a collective face-to-face training was recently organised on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the avocado value chain, with a particular focus on an emerging pest: the Persea mite (Oligonychus perseae).

In the context of rapid expansion of avocado production for both domestic and export markets, this initiative aimed to strengthen the capacities of producers and field teams in early detection, monitoring and sustainable management of major avocado pests and diseases. Participants worked in particular on orchard scouting, the analysis of existing practices, the use of economic thresholds for decision-making, and the design of IPM strategies adapted to local conditions.

In parallel, COLEAD is supporting Ethiopian service providers in the use of its Sustainability Self-Assessment Tool (SAS). This tool enables horticultural companies to assess and improve their practices in areas such as labour conditions, environmental management, crop production, operational management and financial systems. Aligned with international labour standards, the SAS also represents a key preparatory step for social and sustainability audits.

Within the MAHEBER programme, the SAS therefore serves as a basis for the development of tailored support plans, enabling companies – both small and large – to monitor their progress, identify areas for continuous improvement and better respond to the growing requirements of markets, buyers and certification schemes.

By combining strengthened technical capacities at field level with structured sustainability approaches, these actions contribute to more resilient, more responsible and more competitive avocado production systems, in line with COLEAD’s ambition to support sustainable and inclusive horticultural value chains.

This activity is implemented by COLEAD and supported by the MAHEBER Program (Mobilizing Actors in Horticulture for Entrepreneurship and Boosting Ethiopian Resilience), funded by the European Union through the EU Delegation in Ethiopia. This communication has been produced with the financial support of the EU. Its contents are the sole responsibility of COLEAD and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the EU.