MIDROC Ethiopia Group has announced a major expansion of its tea investment in collaboration with local farmers in Jimma and Ilubabor. The initiative aims to cultivate premium-grade tea, 20% of which is already reaching international markets.

Speaking at the About Ethiopia Forum organized by the Ethiopian Press Agency, MIDROC CEO Jamal Ahmed revealed that the company is working with 1,000 farmers across 4,000 hectares. In support, the Oromia regional government is allocating an additional 30,000 hectares for tea cultivation.

To boost production and quality, MIDROC plans to build seven large-scale tea processing factories within 20 kilometers of the farms. The group is also providing farmers with technical support, professional training, and seedlings.

Jamal noted that the project could engage up to 40,000 more producers, creating massive employment opportunities. He emphasized the importance of youth skills training to sustain long-term productivity.

So far, MIDROC has created over 74,000 jobs and is urging other private investors to lead in job creation and value-added industries. Jamal called for stronger collaboration between the private sector, universities, and the government to build an entrepreneurial workforce and promote sustainable economic growth.

Source: The Ethiopian Herald