Ethiopia, the second fastest growing country in Africa, is also one of the most biodiverse. With a wide range of sea levels (from 125 to 4,533 meters), the landscape provides enabling environments for a wide range of crop production. While the country is ecologically rich, it is also experiencing some of the worst impacts of climate change, further worsened by deforestation, extractive industries, and poor agricultural practices. As an example of the impacts of climate change, in 2022, Ethiopia faced its driest period in over 70 years, leading to food insecurity, disrupted livelihoods, and increased poverty. As of 2024, 70% of the country’s labor force was employed by the agriculture sector, making climate adaptation and mitigation measures imperative for this growing nation.

The South Ethiopia Regional State (formerly SNNPR), located in southwestern Ethiopia and bordered by Kenya and South Sudan, is home to more than 50 indigenous ethnic groups. Here, Nuru Ethiopia has been working since 2012, equipping rural farmer-owned agribusinesses to adapt to climate change, build their professionalism, and thrive with quality market linkages. As of March 2025, Nuru Ethiopia has delivered Business Development Services (BDS) to 214 agribusinesses, equipping agribusiness members to increase their incomes by 162%. Members increase their yields and incomes through climate-smart agriculture (CSA) that equips them to adapt to today’s climate challenges while mitigating the challenges of tomorrow. Nuru Ethiopia-supported agribusinesses also participate in conservation activities, like reforestation. Currently, in partnership with Swiss Re Foundation, Nuru Ethiopia is planting 300,000 trees in South Ethiopia Regional State.