Berlin - Germany and Israel have launched a joint irrigation project in the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa, the German Environment Ministry announced Wednesday.

The German government is investing 1.5 million euros (2.1 million dollars) in the project, which aims to provide efficient and environmentally sustainable irrigation to Ethiopian farmers.

German Environment Minister Sigmar Gabriel said the project helped to modernize farming practices in Ethiopia.

"This generally encourages the economic development of the country, secures the livelihood of farms and supports climate change adaptation," Gabriel said.

The project, funded by Germany and Israel, will offer advice and assistance to 320 farms in up to 16 water catchment areas.

This is to include help in choosing the best irrigation systems, financing infrastructure changes and advice on how to market produce.

The initiative results from an agreement signed last year between the German environment minister and former Israeli foreign minister Tzipi Livni. (dpa)