Embrapa Soils researcher Wenceslau Teixeira participated in the Project Workshop "Feasibility study for the use of biochar systems to improve the soil and nutrient management in agriculture in Ethiopia", in Jimma (Ethiopia), on June 13 - 16, 2016. Wenceslau presented a lecture that focused on results and methodologies to assess water retention and water availability in anthropic soils and biochar-added soils. The results from over a decade of studies by Embrapa were the basis for discussion and generated suggestions for planned research in the African country. The program included a visit to the University of Jimma's facilities for biochar production and a visit to family farmers in the region. Contacts with Ethiopian universities were made for further cooperation and to strengthen the partnership with the German institutions involved in the project. The scientist travelled upon an invitation from the Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources (Bundesanstalt für Geowissenschaften und Rohstoffe - BGR) in Hannover, Germany. Translation: Mariana de Lima Medeiros