Central Ethiopia regional administrator Endashaw Tasew inaugurated the Sibisto small-scale irrigation project in East Gurage Zone. The project, built at a cost of over 56 million birr, aims to enable farmers to work year-round without rain restrictions.
The project in South Sodo Woreda has the capacity to cultivate 175 hectares of land and will directly benefit 700 households.
Endashaw Tasew noted that the area is known for vegetable and fruit cultivation using various water alternatives beyond standard crop farming. He emphasized ongoing efforts to expand irrigation facilities while ensuring youth participation in the sector.
Usman Srur, coordinator of the rural development cluster, stated that the government is implementing development ideas to lift the population out of poverty. The project is expected to help farmers become surplus producers and boost their economic benefits.