The National Conference on Eritrean Agricultural Studies 2026 opened today, 20 August, at the National Confederation of Eritrean Workers Hall in Asmara under the theme “Advancing Sustainable Agri-food Systems for National Economic Growth.”

At the opening ceremony, attended by Ministers, senior Government and PFDJ officials, experts, farmers’ representatives, food processors and partners, Dr. Efrem Gebremeskel, Chairman of the Conference Coordinating Committee, said that the conference had been organized to provide a platform for sharing research findings, examining current agricultural challenges and opportunities, discussing innovative approaches, and identifying practical directions for the sustainable transformation of Eritrea’s agricultural sector.

Representing the Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Tekleab Misgina, Director General of Regulatory Services, said that the inspiration for holding the conference stemmed from the International Conference on Eritrean Studies held in January 2025. He noted that the event signifies a renewed commitment to transforming Eritrean agriculture and consolidating its role as the cornerstone of the country’s economic prosperity.

Noting that the conference provides an opportunity for open dialogue, knowledge-sharing and collaborative planning, Mr. Tekleab said that the contributions and active participation of all partners are essential in shaping the future of Eritrean agriculture.

During the two-day conference, 77 research papers will be presented on topics including Agricultural Extension and Farmers’ Adoption; Agricultural Digitalization; Value Chains and Agribusiness; Food Safety, Security and Nutrition; Agricultural Biotechnology and Laboratory Services; Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation; Genetic Resources and Biodiversity Conservation; and Agricultural Policy, Regulatory Frameworks and Governance.