Ethiopia fact sheet

Ethiopia, Africa’s second-most populous country, has made significant strides in economic reforms and infrastructure development. About 66% of the country’s population relies on agriculture for employment, and the sector contributes to roughly 34% of Ethiopia’s GDP. However, agricultural productivity remains low, hindered by limited access to inputs, technology, finance, and extension services. Climate-related shocks, including recurring drought and flooding, further compound these issues and contribute to food insecurity and limited access to basic services. Rates of unemployment are persistently high, especially among youth and women.

SNV has been working with the Government of Ethiopia since 1974, offering strategic support in implementing its development priorities. Over the past five years, SNV’s programmes in the agri-food, energy, and water sectors have impacted more than 4.26 million people in the country. These initiatives have contributed to improvement in livelihoods, increased market access, and enhanced the availability of safe and reliable basic services such as water and energy, particularly for vulnerable communities.

All efforts follow a systems approach that connects farmers, entrepreneurs, and service providers to markets and finance, and works with local governments to strengthen institutional capacity. SNV prioritises climate resilience, youth employment, and women’s inclusion—in alignment with the SDGs and Ethiopia’s Ten-Year Development Plan.

Visit the Ethiopia country page.