Addis Abeba – Selecta One, a German-based horticultural company run in the conflict-hit Amhara region, has announced the relocation of its operations to Kenya and Uganda. The company cited “unstable political situation and a tense military environment” as the main reasons for its decision.
The relocation of the Kunzilla property in Kunzilla in the North Acefer district of West Gojam Zone lost more than 1,000 jobs, according to the company.
“The closure of the Ethiopian site is being carefully considered and will ultimately be necessary. The major logistical challenges over the past two years have not been resolved forever under current conditions, despite the greatest efforts,” the company said in a recent announcement. “Most importantly, there was no guarantee that employees would be safe to do as far as necessary.”
Selecta One CEO Ansgar Klemm described the decision in a LinkedIn post as “a bitter medicine that swallows.” “We have to take a painful step. After years of intensive development work, we are forced to close the Kunjira production site,” he emphasized.
Looking back at the company’s efforts, Clem said, “The year we invested countless hours and built up know-how with our dedicated team on earth, and solidly hoped for a better future after the end of the Civil War in November 2022.” However, he added, “Political instability and a tense military environment represent an insurmountable hurdle.”
The CEO further emphasized that under current conditions, “the safety of employees on the ground cannot be guaranteed.” He explained that the relocation will result in more than 1,000 unemployment, directly and indirectly affecting around 10,000 people in the area.
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In August 2023, Addis Standard reported that a conflict in the Amhara region between the federal government and non-state militia Fano caused more than 3,000 permanent jobs to be lost, with an estimated 2.5 billion BIRRs causing damage to the industry. This news article showed that investments in the cultivation and marketing of flowers, vegetables and fruits were particularly affected.
The West Gojam Zone in the Amhara region has experienced intense armed conflict, especially in recent months. These conflicts include the violent conflict of October 2024, marked by the use of heavy weapons.
Another fatal collision occurred this year, erupting in Jimato Enkomma Kebele in the West Gojam Zone, resulting in the deaths of four people, including a 14-year-old boy and a monk. Residents told Addis Standard that the conflict that occurred near the town of Ziga in late January 2025 also caused significant damage to harvested crops stored in the open agricultural sector.
