The International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) was one of the organizations invited to take part in Earth Day 2024, which was organized by the US Embassy on 3 April 2024, in Addis Ababa under the theme “Planet vs. Plastic.” This is because of its strong commitment to creating sustainable jobs for youth and preserving environmental health through the introduction and advancement of insect-based technologies. Visitors were attracted to the exhibits of our research team and young entrepreneurs from Oromia, South and Central Ethiopia, which included high-quality honey, Eri-silkworm eggs, worms, and moths to demonstrate the rearing cycle and fabrics, and Black Soldier Fly products (dried larvae and frass fertilizer) that enlightened them about the importance of beekeeping, sericulture, and other insect-based businesses on our planet and sustainable means of subsistence. The event was attended by almost a thousand people from more than 25 nations, including development partners, high-ranking government officials, and diplomats.

The exhibition was officially launched by H.E. Ervin Massinga, the US ambassador to Ethiopia, who gave a welcome speech and important words endorsing Earth Day and the occasion. The ambassador commended every participant for their enthusiastic engagement, eye-catching displays, and priceless items that perfectly complemented the event’s theme.

United States Ambassador to Ethiopia, H.E. Ervin Massinga in discussion with Dr Shifa Ballo, Sericulture Manager and the partnering youth sericulture enterprise members, when he visited the icipe stand at the Earth Day 2024.

In the picture: Dr. Workneh Ayalew explains to the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Ethiopia’s Mission Director, H.E. Scott Hocklander, regarding ICIPE’s extensive knowledge and experience in insect science, especially beekeeping, sericulture, and black soldier fly, to develop and market innovative, high-quality products that are sustainable and environmentally friendly.

Many attendees, including Dr Workneh Ayalew, Coordinator of the MOYTESH Programme, gave insightful presentations for the audience and shared heartwarming anecdotes about their organizations, varied endeavours, and the products on exhibit. Dr Workneh noted that over the past years, various insect-based projects implemented in Ethiopia by icipe, the Mastercard Foundation, and other partners created dignified and fulfilling jobs, which served as a transformative force in reshaping our ideology of employment opportunity into a more sustainable and vibrant economy.  Honeybees and other beneficial insects are so much more than just benefiting human beings; they are also vital to the health of our planet and play a significant role in alleviating poverty and the effects of climate change. Besides, our Programmes accelerated the country’s silk and honey production, enabling the youth and women to run apiculture and sericulture businesses that contribute to the livelihood of the community and the entire country.