Ethiopia's Economy
Farming and Food Security
How most Ethiopians depend on rain-fed farming, the role of the Productive Safety Net Programme, and efforts to boost wheat output.
Most Ethiopians depend on farming.
Rain-fed farming
- Small farms rely on rain, making droughts dangerous.
- Teff, a grain used for injera, is a staple.
Safety net
The Productive Safety Net Programme (PSNP), launched in 2005, pays food or cash for public works to millions of vulnerable people.
Wheat push
Ethiopia expanded irrigated wheat to cut imports.
Land
Land is owned by the state; farmers have use rights but can’t sell, limiting credit and consolidation.
Challenges
Droughts, conflict and population growth.
The public works
In a drought-hit village, families earn food by building terraces under the safety net programme.
Thinking famine is simply lack of rain
Policies and safety nets matter too.
Key takeaways
- Most Ethiopians farm rain-fed land.
- Teff is a staple.
- The PSNP supports millions.
- State land ownership limits credit.
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