Expanding Our Olive Nursery for a Greener Tomorrow

The Lalibela Olive Tree Project is taking an important step forward with the planned expansion of its olive nursery. This initiative will increase the production of healthy olive seedlings, support sustainable agriculture, and help more farmers participate in olive cultivation across the Lalibela region.

Following the successful cultivation of 3,000 olive trees that now produce fruit annually, the project is preparing for its next phase of growth. Expanding the nursery will provide a reliable supply of quality seedlings for new plantations and strengthen the foundation for Ethiopia’s emerging olive industry.

Producing More Quality Seedlings

The expanded nursery will enable the project to grow thousands of additional olive seedlings each year. These seedlings will be distributed to new plantations and local farmers, supporting the long-term development of olive cultivation in Ethiopia.

High-quality planting materials are essential for establishing productive orchards and ensuring healthy tree growth for generations to come.

Supporting Farmers and Communities

The nursery will also serve as a centre for learning and innovation. Farmers will receive practical training in nursery management, tree planting, orchard care, and sustainable farming practices. These programmes will improve agricultural skills, increase productivity, and create new opportunities for rural families.

As the project grows, more employment opportunities will also be created for local youth and women, contributing to stronger and more resilient communities.

Environmental Benefits

Expanding the nursery means planting more olive trees, which brings significant environmental benefits. Olive trees help restore degraded land, reduce soil erosion, improve soil fertility, increase biodiversity, and absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Through this expansion, the project is making a meaningful contribution to climate change mitigation and environmental conservation in the Lalibela region.

Looking Ahead

The nursery expansion is an important milestone in achieving the long-term vision of the Lalibela Olive Tree Project. It supports future plantation development, prepares the way for olive oil production, and strengthens the project’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and community development.

We invite development partners, embassies, NGOs, research institutions, private organisations, and individual supporters to join us in this important journey. Together, we can cultivate a greener landscape, empower rural communities, and build a sustainable future for Ethiopia.