Ethiopia launches safeguard studies for poultry value chain development project

ETHIOPIA – Ethiopia has begun environmental and social safeguard assessments for the proposed Ethiopian Poultry Value Chain Development Project (E-PVDP), a planned initiative to expand the country’s poultry industry while evaluating potential risks associated with its implementation.

The studies are intended to identify potential environmental and social effects arising from project activities and to provide recommendations on measures to manage or reduce those impacts.

As the assessments progress, they will examine areas such as poultry waste handling, natural resource use, environmental protection, occupational health and safety, community well-being, and social participation.

The E-PVDP is designed to support the development of Ethiopia’s poultry value chain by improving activities across the poultry value chain, from production and processing to distribution and marketing.

In addition, the project seeks to increase the supply of eggs and poultry meat in the country as part of broader efforts to improve food and nutrition security.

Authorities also expect the initiative to generate employment opportunities, particularly for women and young people, while supporting enterprises operating across different segments of the poultry sector.

At the same time, the project aims to increase incomes for farmers and other industry participants through higher productivity levels and wider participation in commercial poultry production.

Environmental and Social Assessments

The safeguard studies are expected to help identify risks during the planning phase, enabling project developers to consider measures for environmental protection, water resource management, poultry waste disposal, and workplace safety.

Meanwhile, the social assessment will examine how project activities could affect workers, neighbouring communities, and groups that may be more vulnerable to economic or social disruptions.

The review process will also consider stakeholder engagement mechanisms, access to project benefits, and labour practices throughout the poultry value chain.

Planned Sector Improvements

Once implemented, the project is expected to improve producers’ access to poultry breeds, animal feed, veterinary support services, production technologies, and market networks.

These interventions are intended to help farmers increase production volumes, reduce losses, and respond to growing demand for poultry products within the domestic market.

The initiative also seeks to encourage greater private sector participation through improvements in infrastructure, supply chain systems, and market access arrangements.

Poultry farming remains an important source of food and income for many households across Ethiopia, making the sector a significant contributor to rural livelihoods.

Findings from the safeguard studies are expected to inform future project implementation and guide decisions on environmental and social management as the poultry development programme moves forward.

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