The European Union has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with Ethiopian institutions after high-level discussions with Borana University explored new partnerships in veterinary education, research, livestock development, and climate resilience.

The engagements took place during a two-day mission to Borana Zone by the European Union Ambassador to Ethiopia, H.E. Ambassador Sofie From-Emmesberger, on 25–26 June 2026, highlighting the EU's continued support for sustainable development initiatives that improve livelihoods while protecting the region's rich cultural and natural heritage.

The visit brought together university leadership, local authorities, development partners, and community representatives to identify opportunities for expanding cooperation between Ethiopian and European higher education and research institutions, particularly in areas that support pastoral communities.

A key focus of the discussions was strengthening veterinary education and research to improve animal health services, enhance livestock productivity, and build resilient livestock value chains.

The proposed collaboration seeks to equip future veterinary professionals with the knowledge, research capacity, and practical skills required to address emerging livestock health challenges while supporting sustainable pastoral livelihoods.

During the mission, Ambassador From-Emmesberger visited an EU-supported veterinary clinic in Elwaye Woreda, where she observed firsthand how European Union investments are improving access to quality animal health services for pastoral communities.

The clinic provides essential veterinary care that helps prevent livestock diseases, improves herd productivity, and safeguards the livelihoods of families whose incomes depend largely on livestock production.

The investment reflects the EU's broader commitment to strengthening animal health systems as a foundation for food security and economic resilience in Ethiopia's pastoral areas.

The delegation also toured Borana National Park, where discussions highlighted the area's exceptional biodiversity and growing potential for eco-tourism as an engine for sustainable economic development.

Officials noted that conserving natural ecosystems while creating responsible tourism opportunities can generate employment, diversify local economies, and strengthen environmental stewardship.

Another highlight of the visit was the Borana Gada Centre, where the delegation gained deeper insight into the Gada System, the Borana people's centuries-old indigenous governance institution that continues to shape social, cultural, and political life within the community.

The visit underscored the importance of integrating indigenous knowledge and traditional governance systems into modern development approaches that are locally owned and culturally responsive.

Beyond veterinary education, discussions explored opportunities for future collaboration in climate resilience, natural resource management, and livestock value chain development.

Participants emphasised that partnerships between universities, research institutions, governments, and development organisations are essential for generating innovative solutions to the complex challenges facing pastoral communities, including climate change, recurrent drought, animal diseases, and environmental degradation.

The mission also highlighted the value of academic exchange between Ethiopian and European institutions, with both sides expressing interest in expanding joint research, technical cooperation, faculty exchanges, and innovation initiatives that contribute to sustainable development across the Horn of Africa.

The European Union reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside Ethiopian institutions, regional authorities, and local communities to promote inclusive growth, strengthen resilience, and improve livelihoods through long-term partnerships built on shared knowledge and cooperation.

As Ethiopia continues to invest in higher education, scientific research, and sustainable livestock systems, the emerging partnership between the European Union and Borana University is expected to contribute to stronger veterinary services, enhanced research capacity, and more resilient pastoral economies.

The collaboration also reinforces the importance of linking education, innovation, and community development in advancing sustainable solutions for one of Ethiopia's most significant pastoral regions.