A HISTORICAL SURVEY OF HAMARESSA FLOUR AND EDIBLE OIL FACTORY FROM 1937 TO 2000

Abstract

This study is a historical survey of Hamaressa Flour and Edible Oil Factory from 1937 to 2000. The year 1937 the historic date of the foundation of Hamaressa Edible Oil Factory, while the year 2000 was also the transfer of the factory from the state to privatization. The aim of this study was to examine the foundation, evolution and development of Hamaressa Flour and Edible Oil Factory after its foundation. Therefore, the main themes were the production and distribution, supplies of raw materials, market and the main problems of the factory, change and continuity of the factory during it early periods. The study used both primary and secondary sources. The researcher have attempted to utilize the available archival materials, informants, published an unpublished works. These sources are found in Harar(including in the archive of Hamaressa Flour and Edible Oil Factory), Haramaya University, in Addis Ababa University. Based on relevant archival and oral sources, this thesis focused on reconstructing the history of Hamaressa Flour and Edible Oil Factory from 1937 to 2000. The major historical events that were discussed in this thesis were organized chronologically and thematically. The researcher attempted to assess how this factory was established, its production and distribution in its periods. It tried to examine the contribution and impact of the factory on the surrounding communities.