Growing Hope: Ato Temesgen Abate's Impact on Dairy Production in Ethiopia

Ato Temesgen Abate serves as the Community Dairy Cattle Breed Improvement Sector Manager for Project Mercy’s Dairy Farming Program in ChaCha. Our breeding center was established to help smallholder farmers increase their milk production by improving access to Jersey cattle. Rather than breeding and raising all the animals at the center, which takes a long time, our goal is to accelerate impact by training local breeding experts who can provide services directly in the community. This approach makes it easier for farmers to access improved breeds without waiting for center-raised cows to be distributed.

One of the challenges we face is maintaining productivity and consistency in the breed, especially as it expands. To address this, we are using a decentralized model, supporting trained breeders with the equipment and resources they need to offer reliable, high-quality services in their own communities. Since 2020, our efforts have reached more than 45,000 households across 20 kebeles, with five more kebeles now part of our expansion. So far, 58 breeding professionals have been trained by Project Mercy in partnership with Ethiopian and local governmental agencies. Of these, 40 are active in providing services and tracking results, and 18 are based in expansion areas. Together, they have delivered nearly 9,000 breeding services, leading to the birth of around 1,750 calves. We expect that number to grow to 3,600 calves by the end of the project in 2028.

In Ethiopia, Holstein and Jersey breeds are the most sought after for their milk production. While Holsteins produce more milk overall, Jersey cattle are better suited to our local climate and terrain. They require less feed and space, are more resistant to disease, and adapt well to our grazing conditions. They also produce milk that is rich in fat and protein, which is especially important in rural areas where milk is often used for butter and cheese, and where refrigeration or transport is limited. For many farmers, this has led to more consistent income and improved livelihoods.

Before joining Project Mercy, Ato Temesgen worked for many years in a government office. There were times when we wanted to do more but were limited by funding. He explained that in this role, he feels he is able to directly serve the community and see the results of the work.

"I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute in this way," Ato Temesgen said.

Looking ahead, we want to ensure the quality and sustainability of the breeding services we provide. One of the priorities is having enough liquid nitrogen to safely store and transport genetic material. To manage this ourselves, we need support to properly store and handle it. In addition, ongoing investment in calf care, feed, and animal health training will help farmers raise stronger animals and get the full benefit of improved breeds.

We also see a role for government to play in supporting this work, especially in policies that promote access to improved livestock and services. Project Mercy is one of the only organizations working nationally to improve dairy breeds, train technicians, support vulnerable women through heifer distribution, and boost household income through dairy. With continued partnership and the right support, we believe this model can bring long-term change to rural communities across Ethiopia.

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