Ethiopia’s Institute of Biodiversity (EBI) is strengthening conservation initiatives to protect the diverse flora and fauna of countries, including endemic species. With over 92,000 plants genetic samples stored in the Central Gene Bank of Addis Ababa, the institute has adopted both ex-sit and on-site strategies to protect species of nutrition, medicinal and economic significance. Field gene banks have also been established for species that are not suitable for cold storage, such as Choche and Bedessa coffee and Goba medicinal plants.
Ethiopia is recognized as a global genetic centre for major crops such as Teff, Noog and Ethiopian mustard, hosting extensive genetic diversity in grains and legumes. The country also has a range of over 284 mammal species, 861 bird species, reptiles, amphibians and fish. Most of them are endemic. EBI initiatives include legal protection of endangered plant species, collaboration with local and international organizations, and promotion of climate-dependent crops. These activities form part of a wide range of efforts to support agriculture sustainability and support Ethiopia’s biological heritage, and prepare the Institute to mark the International Day of Biodiversity 2025.
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Source: ENA
