In June 2026, a participatory commercialization planning meeting for Jimma Dedo sheep was held, followed by a Training of Trainers on entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and business planning from July 29-30 in Jimma university.
Supported by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research and coordinated by ICARDA, these initiatives aim to enhance livestock commercialization through collaboration with government offices, cooperatives, financial institutions, and market actors. Key objectives include:• Developing breed-specific commercialization priorities.
• Strengthening linkages among various stakeholders in the livestock value chain.
• Promoting practical livestock businesses and improving market access.
• Enhancing entrepreneurship and financial skills among farmers and cooperatives.
• Expanding employment opportunities for women and youth in related sectors.
The training equips participants with essential skills in business management, ensuring that genetic improvements lead to sustainable enterprises and increased household incomes. 
The next phase involves cascading this training to local farmers and stakeholders to foster market-oriented livestock ventures. This initiative marks a significant shift from genetics to profitable rural businesses.
We are in the community!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JimmaUniv/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JimmaUniv
Telegram: https://t.me/JimmaUniversityOfficial
E-mail: ero@ju.edu.et