Stakeholders Convene in Hawassa to Strengthen Gender and Climate Action in Ethiopia’s Coffee Sector

Key stakeholders from across Sidama and Harrar Regions gathered at Lewi Resort in Hawassa on November 5 for a pivotal workshop aimed at enhancing the intersection of gender and climate action within the nation’s coffee sector. The event brought together representatives from Dilla University, extension workers, coffee experts from various districts of the Sidama and Harrar regions, cooperative representatives, coffee breeders, gender focal persons, and coffee agronomy experts.

The workshop’s primary objectives were to conduct a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis of the intersection of gender and climate change in Ethiopia’s coffee sector, engage pertinent stakeholders in the analysis, and identify actionable insights for improving gendered climate action plans and strategies.

The event commenced with a presentation by the project team outlining the project’s goals and objectives, providing background and rationale, and discussing the expected impact and benefits. This set the stage for a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the sector.

A one-hour preliminary review presented by a consultant offered an in-depth overview of Ethiopia’s coffee sector, highlighting gender dynamics in the coffee value chain, the impacts of climate change on coffee farming, and existing initiatives and policies. This presentation underscored the urgent need for integrated strategies that address both gender disparities and climate vulnerabilities.

Participants then engaged in a participatory SWOT analysis, working in four groups over one and a half hours to dissect the complex interplay between gender issues, climate change, and the coffee industry. This collaborative effort allowed stakeholders to share diverse experiences and insights.

“Bringing together experts from different fields has provided us with a holistic view of the challenges we face,” said a gender focal person from the Sidama region. “It’s crucial that we incorporate gender perspectives into climate action to ensure equitable and sustainable development.”

“Acknowledging the strengths and opportunities we’ve identified empowers us to create effective strategies,” remarked a coffee agronomy expert from the Harrar region. “Our goal is to implement solutions that are both climate-resilient and gender-inclusive.”

The workshop concluded with a general discussion and wrap-up session, during which participants provided valuable feedback. This input will be instrumental in strengthening the Gender and Climate Action Plan, ensuring that it reflects the insights and needs of those directly involved in the coffee sector.

“This workshop has been invaluable for collecting expert feedback,” noted the project coordinator from OSSREA. “The collaborative efforts here will significantly contribute to developing more effective and inclusive policies.”

The event highlighted the importance of multi-stakeholder engagement in addressing the intertwined challenges of gender inequality and climate change. By fostering open dialogue and collective strategy development, the workshop set a foundation for meaningful progress in Ethiopia’s coffee sector.

About the Project

The initiative aims to bolster Ethiopia’s coffee industry by integrating gender considerations into climate action strategies. By engaging stakeholders from various sectors, the project seeks to create sustainable solutions that promote both environmental resilience and gender equity.