Technical assistance project launched to rebuild Ethiopia’s livestock sector

Following our success earlier this year in securing the European Union (EU)-funded Technical Assistance for the Restoration of Livestock Assets and Systems in Conflict and Drought-Affected Areas of Ethiopia (TA-RESTORE), two members of Landell Mills’ Frameworks division recently visited Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to meet the in-country team and officially launch the project.

Across the three-year duration of the TA-RESTORE project, Landell Mills will provide the European Union Delegation (EUD) to Ethiopia with technical assistance in planning, monitoring and coordination; and the four implementing partners with technical advice. The project has an overall aim to support sustainable recovery and improved productivity of Ethiopia's livestock sector; and to ensure significant support for Ethiopia’s recovery from conflict and drought, fostering resilience and growth in its vital livestock sector.

During their visit to Ethiopia, the representatives from Landell Mills visited the EUD to Ethiopia and engaged with key stakeholders, as well as aligning on the project's initial steps with the project team. They also visited the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) offices in Addis Ababa, where the in-country expert team will be based when providing technical assistance under the project.

The trip provided an important opportunity to strengthen relationships, ensure a smooth transition into project implementation and reinforce our commitment to rebuilding sustainable livestock systems in affected regions. As the TA-RESTORE project unfolds, the team is committed to supporting sustainable livestock development and resilience-building efforts that will benefit communities impacted by conflict and climate challenges.

The representatives from Landell Mills also attended the RESTORE Stakeholders’ Coordination Workshop, which was organised by Landell Mills in collaboration with the EU and the project implementing partners. The workshop aimed to foster a unified approach, ensuring coordination among stakeholders to maximise the project's impact. The Stakeholders’ Coordination Workshop:

• familiarised stakeholders with the project's goals, scope and implementation methodology.
• provided a platform for discussions on effective project execution and collaboration.
• defined clear roles and responsibilities among implementing partners and key stakeholders.
• strengthened coordination to ensure shared ownership and sustainable impact.

The workshop gathered over 40 stakeholders, including representatives from the EUD, the RESTORE implementing partners (the ILRI and the Ethiopian Veterinary Association (EVA)), regional governments (from Afar, Amhara, Oromia, Somali, South Ethiopia and South West Ethiopia), the Technical Assistance Team (TAT), and various government and non-government institutions involved in livestock development.

Jointly led by the RESTORE TAT and Landell Mills HQ coordinators, the workshop reinforced the importance of synergy, expertise sharing and effective communication to drive meaningful change. Discussions emphasised the need for alignment in activities and collaboration across all involved entities to ensure the project's success.

The TA-RESTORE project represents a significant step towards restoring and strengthening Ethiopia’s livestock sector, particularly in regions affected by conflict and drought. With strong stakeholder engagement and a clear roadmap, we are confident that this initiative will contribute to long-term resilience and sustainable development.