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The forum opened with a warm welcome from Dr. Solomon, the Dean of Jimma Agriculture, who set the tone for the event with his insightful remarks on the critical importance of integrating gender perspectives into climate adaptation strategies within the coffee farming sector. This was followed by an opening remark from Ato Sefissa Ababu, Director in charge of the Director General Office of the Ethiopian Coffee and Tea Authority (ECTA), who underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing the challenges posed by climate change.
Dr. Truphena, Executive Director of OSSREA, also delivered a powerful welcome address and keynote speech, emphasizing the necessity of gender-responsive approaches to climate adaptation in ensuring the sustainability of coffee farming. Her remarks were well-received and set a strong foundation for the discussions that followed.
The forum featured a series of compelling presentations and panel discussions that captivated the participants. Dr. Fekadu’s keynote presentation on the intersection of gender and climate change in coffee farming was well-received, sparking active engagement and discussion among the attendees. Dr. Tadesse’s presentation on “Climate Change and Coffee: Current Trends and Future Projections” was also well-received. The participants, demonstrating their deep interest and commitment, were highly active throughout the event, contributing to vibrant discussions that enriched the forum’s outcomes.
In addition to the presentations, panel discussions provided a platform for participants to share their experiences, challenges, and solutions related to gender-responsive climate adaptation in the coffee sector. The diversity of perspectives and the depth of knowledge shared during these sessions highlighted the critical importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration in addressing the complex challenges posed by climate change.
The success of the Jimma Forum is a testament to the commitment and collaboration of all involved. The organizers would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to all the participants, presenters, and panelists for their invaluable contributions. The event has laid a strong foundation for continued collaboration and action in developing gender-responsive strategies to ensure the resilience and sustainability of coffee farming in Ethiopia.
As the forum concluded, there was a unanimous agreement on the need for continued dialogue and cooperation among stakeholders to effectively address the intersection of gender and climate change in the coffee farming sector. The outcomes of this forum will undoubtedly contribute to shaping future policies and practices that are both inclusive and sustainable.
Jimma, Ethiopia – The recently concluded forum on Gender-Responsive Climate Adaptation Strategies in Coffee Farming, held in Jimma, was hailed as a remarkable success. The event, co-organized by OSSREA and Jimma University, brought together over 55 participants, including key stakeholders from academia, research institutions, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations.