Ethiopian farmers adopt biogas systems to improve yields and household energy
via The Reporter Ethiopia6 min read
Farmers in Ethiopia's Oromia Region, including Abebe Shewa and Shambel Semboka, are adopting biogas systems and regenerative agriculture practices to convert organic waste into fuel and fertilizer. This shift has led to improved crop yields, particularly for vegetables, and enhanced livestock production through the use of bioslurry. The initiative, which integrates waste management, energy production, and agriculture, reduces reliance on chemical fertilizers and traditional cooking methods like firewood and charcoal, thereby decreasing indoor air pollution and saving time for women. The national biogas program, launched on April 21, 2026, by Sistema.bio in partnership with SNV, aims to expand access to clean cooking energy and support sustainable agricultural practices. To date, approximately 150 biodigester systems have been installed, benefiting an estimated 600 people and resulting in an estimated reduction of 3,300 tons of carbon dioxide emissions. The program also generates local employment through installation and maintenance services. Sistema.bio, which has installed about 150,000 units globally, plans to add 30,000 more systems in Africa over the next five years. Peter Simiyau, commercial director at Sistema.bio, highlighted the use of carbon financing mechanisms and digital monitoring to support affordability and track emissions reductions. Marcus Dreng, project manager at Bridge Plus, described biodigesters as a productive input for smallholder farming, creating a c
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by The Reporter Ethiopia.
The National Bank of Ethiopia NBE has postponed its latest foreign-exchange auction, citing unforeseen technical issues. The NBE had previously announced on May 27 that it would conduct two foreign-exchange auctions of USD 100 million each during the fourth quarter of the fiscal year. This amount represents a significant reduction from the previous auction, which offered USD 500 million. The next auction, valued at USD 100 million, was scheduled for June 24, 2026. Demand for foreign currency remains high, with commercial banks submitting bids totaling approximately USD 1 billion in the previous auction, double the amount offered by the central bank, as the Birr continues to weaken against the US Dollar. In that auction, the weighted average exchange rate for successful bids was 159.98 Birr per dollar, with the highest successful bid at 160.90 Birr per dollar and the lowest at 157.30 Birr. Fourteen of the 30 participating commercial banks secured foreign-currency allocations.
Must ReadThe Ethiopian Capital Market Authority ECMA has granted an investment banking license to United Capital Financial Services PLC, a subsidiary of Nigeria-based United Capital Group. This marks the first time a foreign investment bank has established a subsidiary in Ethiopia, signaling increased foreign interest in the country's developing capital market. The license was issued on June 5 and announced on June 9, authorizing the company to provide services under Ethiopia’s investment banking framework. ECMA also approved five board directors and licensed four appointed representatives for the company. This development brings the total number of licensed Capital Market Service Providers in Ethiopia to 18 and raises the number of licensed investment banks to seven. ECMA Director-General Hana Tehelku described United Capital's entry as a significant milestone, reflecting growing confidence in Ethiopia’s financial sector reforms and regulatory framework. She added that it demonstrates recognition of Ethiopia’s market potential and could help deepen market capacity, improve regional integration, and strengthen investor participation. This licensing aligns with Ethiopia's ongoing efforts to operationalize its capital market and attract private investment.
Must ReadThe National Bank of Ethiopia NBE has amended its Franco Valuta Directive, permitting diplomatic missions, foreign investors, and international organizations to import fuel for their own use without relying on the Ethiopian Petroleum Supply Enterprise EPSE. This change allows these entities to use their own foreign exchange for fuel imports, bypassing the need for letters of credit from banks. The volume and value of fuel imported under this scheme will be determined by the approval of the recommending government office. This marks a significant shift, as it is the first time in recent memory that non-governmental entities can independently import and utilize fuel. While the state-owned EPSE will continue to manage fuel imports and supply for most of the market, this new directive aims to facilitate the import of essential commodities without straining national foreign exchange reserves. The directive also extends to other goods and capital items imported by international organizations, NGOs, charities, manufacturers, and exporters.