by Xinhua writers Habtamu Worku, Liu Fangqiang
ADDIS ABABA, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) — Ethiopian experts have lauded China‘s extraordinary achievement in transforming from ecological fragility to environmental leadership, calling it a practical model for addressing climate change and land degradation.
They argue that China‘s experience, coupled with deepening Sino-Ethiopian cooperation in ecological conservation, offers valuable lessons for Ethiopia as it pursues ambitious environmental goals amid mounting climate challenges.
Aberu Tena, chief executive officer of Green Legacy and Plantation Forest under Ethiopian Forestry Development, told Xinhua that the two countries’ ecological cooperation has matured into a robust and highly effective South-South partnership, “successfully transitioning from high-level agreements to tangible ground-level projects.”
Tena identified technology transfer as a cornerstone of the collaboration, with Ethiopia benefiting from Chinese expertise in combating environmental challenges, particularly desertification. He cited satellite remote sensing for monitoring land degradation, advanced water-saving irrigation methods, and dune stabilization techniques as transformative technologies now in active use.
According to Tena, Chinese experts have conducted training workshops for Ethiopian officials, technicians, and researchers, focusing on building local capacity in sustainable land management. Pilot zones have also been established to adapt China‘s successful ecological restoration schemes, such as the Kubuqi model, to Ethiopia’s diverse highland and lowland conditions.
Tena stressed that the ecological cooperation extends beyond desertification control, forming an integral part of a broader green development relationship with “tangible and transformative outcomes” across sectors vital to Ethiopia’s sustainable future.
Renewable energy is another major success, complementing Ethiopia’s climate-resilient green economy strategy and its goal of carbon-neutral growth. “Chinese financing and technology have been instrumental in developing Ethiopia’s vast renewable energy potential, particularly in hydropower and wind energy,” Tena said.
He also highlighted the flagship Chinese-built Ethiopia-Djibouti Railway as a “green transport corridor” that significantly cuts carbon emissions compared to road freight, demonstrating how economic development and environmental sustainability can advance hand in hand.
Reflecting on China’s “remarkable reversal of desertification” achieved through decades of unwavering, state-led policy, Tena said the experience underscores the importance of sustained political commitment beyond short-term cycles.
He also praised the “well-coordinated and integrated” nature of China’s reforestation and rehabilitation efforts, which “align seamlessly with broader national objectives and are supported by targeted scientific research and interventions.”
Bitew Shibabaw Abate, chief executive officer of Forest Products Utilization and Law Compliance under Ethiopian Forestry Development, described China’s approach as “unique and globally exemplary,” crediting its success to the seamless integration of science, policy, and mass mobilization.
He emphasized the country’s strong reliance on scientific research to develop plant species adapted to local environments and praised Chinese experts for their dedication and openness.
“The enthusiasm of the Chinese researchers, scientists, and experts stationed at different sites, who were eager to share their experiences and practical insights with us, was remarkable,” Shibabaw said.
The expert called for more concrete strategies to elevate the China-Ethiopia ecological partnership, particularly in policy-making, financing, innovation, and environmental governance.
Noting the ecological diversity shared by the two countries, Shibabaw said Ethiopia’s varied landscapes provide “fertile ground” for applying China’s proven conservation, rehabilitation, and reforestation strategies.
“This shared ecological diversity creates a natural laboratory for collaborative problem-solving,” he said.
