Adama, Ethiopia — October 22, 2025
Ethiopian seed companies gathered for a pivotal field visit and policy dialogue aimed at accelerating the commercialization of TELA maize. The event began with a tour of the Dhera demonstration site, where participants observed the performance of TELA maize varieties under field conditions. This was followed by key stakeholders technical policy dialogue held at Adama Naflet Hotel.

The dialogue brought together senior managers, maize researchers, and regulatory experts from the Ethiopian Agricultural Authority (EAA) and the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR). Mr. Fiseha Teshome of EAA opened the session by emphasizing the importance of regulatory alignment to support innovation in seed systems.

Dr. Tesfaye Disasa, BMSS Project Manager, presented performance data on TELA maize, highlighting its potential to enhance productivity and resilience. Dr. Leta Tulu, also from the BMSS project, shared stewardship and licensing strategies to ensure responsible deployment of the technology.

Importantly, Ethiopia’s TELA maize seed system is expected to follow a distinct model compared to other African countries. It will operate as a public sector–supported private seed supply system, ensuring institutional oversight while enabling private seed companies to deliver quality seed to farmers.

The TELA project has already registered three genetically modified (GM) maize varieties for commercial use. These varieties are specifically adapted to Ethiopia’s lowland moisture-stressed agroecologies and mid-altitude zones with sufficient rainfall—marking a major milestone in biotech crop deployment.

The session was chaired by Dr. Gemechu Keneni, Director of Seed Research and Technology Multiplication at EIAR, who facilitated a forward-looking discussion on seed policy reform and private sector engagement.

This strategic convening marks a significant step toward harmonizing policy and practice for biotech maize adoption in Ethiopia.