In Ethiopia’s Wolaita region, Ayuda en Acción has launched the Green Gold Project, introducing hybrid avocado and mango cultivation. This initiative aims to improve food security, increase farmer incomes, and build resilience against climate change.
The Green Gold Project targets smallholder farmers in the districts of Boloso Sore, Boloso Bombe, and Damot Woyde, supporting 5,000 farmers and indirectly benefiting 25,000 individuals.
Green Gold Project: an alternative with avocado and mango
Avocados and mangoes in Ethiopia are among the most widely grown fruits in the country. They are valued not only for their income-generating potential but also for their rich nutritional benefits. These fruits are an important part of the rural diet, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats that help combat malnutrition in many communities.
The Wolaita region in southern Ethiopia has a favorable climate that has supported avocado cultivation for decades, mainly with local varieties. However, these traditional varieties often take many years to bear fruit and generally produce lower yields. This has limited farmers’ ability to significantly improve their livelihoods.
To solve these problems, Ayuda en Acción has launched the Green Gold Project in Wolaita. Through this project, hybrid varieties of avocado and mango are being introduced in Ethiopia. But we are not stopping there: we are also providing training in climate-smart agricultural practices.
What began as a small project has become an important force for improving food security, income, and resilience to climate crises in the Wolaita region.
Benefits of Hybrid Varieties
Hybrid avocado and mango trees offer several advantages:
- Faster ripening times;
- Higher fruit yields;
- Enhanced resistance to pests, diseases, and drought.
Nutritionally, hybrid mangoes are rich in vitamins A and C, while hybrid avocados provide heart-healthy fats, fiber, and potassium, contributing to improved health outcomes.
Through the Gold Green Project, we work closely with local farmer organisations, seedling producers, exporters, agro-processors, and training centers to strengthen the entire production and marketing chain.
Farmer Success Stories
Workinesh Kaficho, a mother of four from Kindo Koysha, shares her experience:
“After receiving hybrid seedlings and training, my garden began producing fruit in just 18 months. Now, I can better feed my family, pay for my children’s education, and reinvest in my farm.”
Her husband also invested in farm productivity, inspired by the project’s success. “Now there is always food on our table. People come to learn from our experience,” he says proudly.
Strengthening the Agricultural Value Chain
The project collaborates with the Areka Agricultural Research Center and Selam Seedling Enterprise to rehabilitate older avocado trees using grafting techniques.
Additionally, the project trains rural youth in agriculture and entrepreneurship, equipping them with skills to create sustainable livelihoods.
The Green Gold Project exemplifies how hybrid agriculture can transform communities.
