Despite the revenue from export, 90% of the national demand of edible oil is imported. Among oilseeds, groundnut, sunflower and soybean are the choice of cultivation both in high rainfall Western lowlands and irrigated areas of Awash, Omo and Wabe Shebelle and Dawa Genale valleys.
Why is Ethiopia investing in edible oil?
The country is encouraging investment in the edible oil-manufacturing sector to expand productions and substitute imports with local production. And since last year, Ethiopia has permitted local and foreign companies to import and supply food commodities, including edible oils, to the local market using the companies¡¯ hard currencies.
What oilseeds are used in Ethiopia?
Nine oilseeds namely noug, gomenzer, linseed, soybean, sunflower, castor, sesame, ground nut and cotton are important in Ethiopia for edible oil consumption. During the last 60 years, 156 varieties with their production practices were registered. Sesame contributes significantly to the foreign currency earnings next to coffee.
How can edible oil meet the national demand?
In the short term, sufficient amount of edible oil to meet the national demand can come from maximizing sesame export and production of sunflower, groundnut and soybean as raw material for local industries. In the long term, oil palm production is indispensable to feed the ever-growing population.