The International Day of Plant Health was observed on 12th May, 2023 at the national level in the premises of the Ministry of Agriculture under the theme “Plant Health for Environmental Protection”.

Mr. Tekleab Misghina, General Director of Regulations and Inspection at the Ministry of Agriculture indicating that the International Day of Plant Health is being observed for the second time at the international and national level said that plants and environment have strong bondage.

Noting that human activities and climate change are creating pressure on the health of plants, agriculture, and the food system, Mr. Tekleab called for a coordinated global effort to address the challenges.

Mr. Tekleab also said that the Ministry of Agriculture is closely working with the International Plant Health Society and International Plant Protection Convention in controlling pests that are causing plant diseases.

Mr. Seid Nuredin, head of Seeds Resource Control, on his part, said that the objective of the International Day of Plant Health is to raise the awareness of the public, eradicate hunger and poverty as well as protection of biodiversity and the environment.

Mr. Seid also said that the Ministry of Agriculture in partnership with Government institutions and stakeholders is working in controlling desert locusts and other pests as well as encouraging farmers to use organic fertilizers and pesticides.

International Day of Plant Health is being observed for the first time at the international and national levels.