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AFRICA RISING

Africa Research in Sustainable Intensification for

the Next Generation africa-rising.net

INTENSIFICATION OF FARMING SYSTEMS IN THE HIGHLANDS OF ETHIOPIA

[TYPE TEXT]

Technical Report for CIP-led Activities

1 October–31 December 2013

Contact Information:

International Potato Center (CIP), Ethiopia

c/o ILRI, PO Box 5689 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Tel.: +251 11 617 2291

Cell: +251 920 054561

[TYPE TEXT]

Technical Report for CIP-led Activities

1 October–31 December 2013

Principal Authors: Britta Kowalski, Solomon Gebreselassie, Gebrehiwot Hailemariam, Abiyot Aragaw, Temesgen Alene and Steffen Schulz

TECHNICAL REPORT FOR CIP-LED ACTIVITIES (1 OCT.–31 DEC. 2013) i

Contents

1. Purpose, Objectives, and Planned Outputs………………………………………………………1

2. Partners ………………………………………………………………………………………………1

3. Achievements against Plan………………………………………………………………………….2

3.1 DEMONSTRATION OF BEST-BET TECHNOLOGIES……………………………………………………2 3.2 PARTICIPATORY ACTION PLANNING………………………………………………………………..2 3.3 VALUE CHAIN ANALYSIS…………………………………………………………………………….3 3.4 SEEDLING NURSERIES………………………………………………………………………………..3 3.5 PLANNING ACTIVITIES FOR NEXT 18-MONTH PHASE FROM 1 JANUARY 2014……………………….3

4. Summary of Achieved Outputs…………………………………………………………………….3

5. Key Deliverable Deviation…………………………………………………………………………..4

6. List of Geo-tagged Locations/Sites where Activities Took Place……………………………..4

7. Support of Africa Rising……………………………………………………………………………..4

8. Scalability………………………………………………………………………………………………5

9. Lessons learned……………………………………………………………………………………….5

10. Success Stories………………………………………………………………………………………..6

Annex 1: Summary of the results of field demonstration evaluations by crop and region....A-1

Annex 2: Detailed Evaluation Report of On-farm Demonstration Plots ……………………...A-3

TECHNICAL REPORT FOR CIP-LED ACTIVITIES (1 OCT.–31 DEC. 2013) 1

1. PURPOSE, OBJECTIVES, AND PLANNED OUTPUTS

According to the Africa Rising (AR) project work plan of 1 March–30 September 2013, CIP would contribute to:

• Research Component 1: Inventory of current technologies, practices, and participatory identification of problems/opportunities and action planning

• Research Component 3: Identification of market opportunities and value chain analysis

• Demonstration of proven best-bet technologies.

CIP led these activities, but they were carried out in close consultation and collaboration with project partners/stakeholders. During the 3-month cost extension period, ongoing activities were to be completed and consolidated rather than new initiative begun. In addition, the time was used to plan an 18-month CIP project component to be started in January 2014.

Activities were implemented in the Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Region (SNNPR), Tigray, Oromiya, and Amhara in a total of eight pilot communities.

2. PARTNERS Amhara Region

• Debre Birhan University

• Debre Birhan Agricultural Research Centre

• Basona Worana Woreda Office of Agriculture

Oromiya Region

• Sinana Agricultural Research Centre

• Medawolabu University

• Sinana Woreda Livestock Agency

• Sinana Woreda Office of Agriculture

SNNP Region

• Areka Agricultural Research Centre

• Lemo Woreda Agricultural Office

• Hadiya Zone Agricultural Office

• Worabe Agricultural Research Centre

• Wachamo University

Tigray Region

• Tigray Agricultural Research Institute

• Alamata Agricultural Research Centre

• Mekelle University

• Endamehoni Woreda Office of Agriculture.


3. ACHIEVEMENTS AGAINST PLAN

3.1 Demonstration of Best-bet Technologies

Following intensive stakeholder consultation and key informant interviews, field demonstrations of improved varieties and crop management practices were implemented from March to October 2013. Twenty-four demonstrations (eight communities, three crops, three replications) with 72 plots (24 potato, 24 wheat, 24 faba bean) were implemented and farmer feedback documented. The results are summarized in Annex 1: Summary of the results of field demonstration evaluations by crop and region and Annex 2: Detailed evaluation report of on-farm demonstration plots.

Mid-season field days were organized for potato. One host famer for each community explained the on-farm demonstration; the varieties and production practices, including fertilizer rates and time of application; and cultural practices. Groups of men, women, and youth then set criteria for potato evaluation and rated the demonstrated varieties and practices. The main criteria for the potato crop in the field were early maturity, disease resistance, and plant vigor.

During the cost extension period (Oct.–Dec. 2013), the following activities were carried out in the field demonstrations:

• End-of-season evaluation and harvest of potato demonstration plot were carried out as planned (end of October/beginning of November). Farmers ranked harvest performance of varieties and crop management methods against criteria set by themselves. They either confirmed or amended the results of their mid-season evaluation.

• 24 diffused light stores (DLS) were planned at all action sites for seed potato for an overall capacity of 48 MT of seed (2 MT per DLS). For 22 DLS the structures have been finalized, but some are still undergoing minor finishing work and is the farmers’ responsibility. Construction has not yet started on 2 DLS in Sinana.

• Mid-season field days for wheat and faba bean were planned for November and carried out accordingly. (End-of-season evaluation and harvest of wheat and faba bean plots were carried out in January 2014.)

3.2 Participatory Action Planning

In July, participatory community analyses (PCA) were undertaken by multidisciplinary facilitation teams in 8 kebeles in the Amhara, Tigray, Oromiya, and SNNPR regions. The PCA produced a list of priority farming enterprises; their current bottlenecks; and farmer-perceived opportunities for improving income, food security, and/or reducing overall risks by intensifying farm enterprises. PCA were carried out in discussions with kebele members and local leaders, with over 250 men, women, and young people sharing their local knowledge and ideas for the future, helping to lay a path forward for the AR project in Ethiopia. The work was facilitated by multidisciplinary teams drawn from universities, research centers, and woreda agricultural offices in each region. Their capable and enthusiastic support ensured that farmers’ knowledge, perceptions, and views have been captured.

During the cost extension period (Oct.–Dec. 2013), the following activities were carried out in preparation of the belg and meher seasons 2014:

• Identification of model farmers to implement community-based seed production activities in 2014 for selected priority crops (unavailability of quality seed was identified as a priority bottleneck in the PCA). At least four model, or lead, farmers are to be involved in


combined seed production/farmer field school (FFS) light approach during the belg season in Maicha/Tigray and Lemo/SNNPR, in which two model farmers/woreda (one per kebele) selected by community potato farmers multiply seed on app. 0.25 ha and run an FFS light on potato agronomy/ seed production.

• Participation in the Africa Rising–HumidTropics workshop on participatory methods and tools in agriculture and natural resources management research in Oxford took place in December. Two CIP scientists attended.

3.3 Value Chain Analysis

Value chain work carried out by the value chain/implementation area is being coordinated closely with the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT). It is part of a joint CIAT/CIP value chain work plan.

3.4 Seedling Nurseries

Forage species have been planted on one model farmer field at each kebele in Lemo woreda. The vetch and oat species did well and farmers are able to use them. Alfalfa and trifolium performed poorly in both kebeles. Farmers were interested in tree lucerne seedlings, and several farmers have planted them as a hedge in their compound, where they grew well. The sesbania seeds were given to one model farmer at each kebele and the seedlings grew well in a seed bed. But owing to slow development, they were not transplanted before the rainy season was over. Farmers maintain the seed beds and intend to transplant them in the 2014 belg season.

Farmers at Sinana were only willing to take the vetch, oats, and tree lucerne, which are doing well in farmers' fields.

Irrigation water is not accessible, so the tree nurseries could not be kept at both woredas. At present there are tree lucerne seedlings only at one farmer tree center in Lemo.

In Tsibet/Tigray a site was identified to be used to establish forage tree seedlings in coordination with the Department of Agriculture.

3.5 Planning Activities for Next 18-month Phase from 1 January 2014

During the cost extension period, and in consultation with other project partners, an action plan and budget were developed for CIP’s contribution to the AR project (1 January 2014–30 June 2015). It is currently being incorporated into Themes 1–7 of the AR project work plan 2014 and onwards, with research protocols being developed for the activities.

4. SUMMARY OF ACHIEVED OUTPUTS

• 60 field demonstrations of “best-bet” technologies harvested, feed samples collected, remaining mid- and end-season field days carried out, and farmer feedback documented

• Forage species, vetch, oat, alfalfa, trifolium sp., and tree lucerne were grown in seedling nurseries and planted in farmers’ fields at each kebele in Lemo woreda

• Model farmers for decentralized seed production identified


• 24 DLS were planned in all action sites for seed potato, of which 22 were built (with some still undergoing minor finishing work) and 2 are not yet started in Sinana.

• Action plan and budget for 18-month CIP project component developed with national and international project partners.

5. KEY DELIVERABLE DEVIATION

• Demonstration of best-bet technologies. Where rainfall allowed, establishment of double-cropping system with interested farmers, sowing chick pea and grass pea into harvested potato plots, and relaying into faba bean plots were planned for October but not realized.

• Value chain analysis. The organization of workshops giving farmers/participants feedback on the results of the PCA planned for November have not yet been carried out. It was decided to incorporate the feedback into the formation process for the information platforms.

6. LIST OF GEO-TAGGED LOCATIONS/SITES WHERE ACTIVITIES TOOK PLACE

Activities were implemented in SNNPR, Tigray, Oromiya, and Amhara in woredas and kebeles already identified by the project. In each of the four regions, one woreda and two communities in each woreda have been selected. Therefore, CIP implemented the activities in eight pilot communities.

7. SUPPORT OF AFRICA RISING

Within Theme 6, Sustainability through seed systems. The PCA identified unavailability of quality seed as a priority bottleneck. CIP suggested piloting the establishment of community-based seed production activities for priority crops in the coming cropping season and has begun implementing this in Tigray and SNNPR during the belg season. Three field demonstrations are being established to promote the use of high-quality seed in Maichew/Tigray, Lemo/SNNPR, and Sinana/Oromiya. During this reporting period, three field mid-season field days were carried out: four potato farmers/woreda (two per kebele) produce ware potato using quality seed on around 0.25 ha (quality seed and improved technology). The demonstration is located inside their own potato fields (farmer seed and farmer management).

Planning for the meher season is currently underway within the development of the research protocols.

Within Theme 6, Sustainability through postharvest and storage innovation. In conjunction with the demonstration of crop varieties, DLS for seed potatoes have been constructed and more are still being built, ensuring that farmers retain seed of preferred varieties. During the belg season DLS storage capacity increased by four household-level stores, or 10-MT capacity.

Within Theme 7, FFS Light. Two field days are to be organized (at flowering, at harvest) by the implementing model farmer.

Within Theme 7, training on participatory budgeting and community action planning was carried out for field staff in eight AR implementation areas.

Cost-benefit analysis for at least two field demonstrations was carried out and documented in 2013. Eight community action plans for the period July 2014–June 2015 were developed and incorporated into kebele-level innovation platforms.


Within Theme 3, market opportunities and value chain analysis were identified, in consultation and coordination with CIAT.

Within Theme 1, nutrient analysis of crop residues was carried out in collaboration with the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), which is leading the activity.

Other continuing research activities involve Theme 2, Field Crop Varietal Selection and Management Activity 1.1.1. Review available varieties for niches found at AR sites, and Activity 1.1.2. Implement participatory varietal selection program.

8. SCALABILITY

Possible future activities include the following:

• Establishment of decentralized seed production systems at community level for community priority crops through model farmers

• Introduction and dissemination of “biofortified” crops, such as orange-fleshed sweetpotato, quality protein maize, iron-rich beans, where appropriate

• Carry out participatory budgeting for potato, sweetpotato, wheat, and faba bean per community and provide on-the-job training to partners in this methodology

• Identify priority research topics in each community to be addressed for each year and participate in establishment of kebele/woreda-level innovation platforms

• In collaboration with ILRI, carry out nutrient analysis of crop residues suitable as animal feed such as faba bean stover and wheat straw

• In collaboration with the World Agroforestry Center, explore opportunities to address farmer-perceived constraints (lack of feed, fuel, increasing income) through agroforestry

• In collaboration with CIAT, follow up on value chain work on priority crops and livestock and contribute to the development of value chain activities

• Potential synergies between CIP’s AR component and the HumidTropics CGIAR Research Program identified and way forward proposed for their exploitation.

9. LESSONS LEARNED

Collaboration between different CGIAR centers and national partner organizations provides substantial potential for mutual learning and synergies. However, differences in institutional policies and administrative procedures still constitute formidable obstacles to a smooth and productive collaboration.

Give priority to the identification and exploitation of potential synergies between CIP’s AR component and the AR components of partners.

Farmers’ patience with regard to surveys, community assessments, and field studies seems overstretched. The project should try to increase practical field activities that are relevant to farmers in the short and medium term.


10. SUCCESS STORIES

1. Farmers’ feedback on potato field demonstrations

• Farmers identified preferred varieties and successful crop management techniques by applying their own selection criteria.

• Farmers participating in the field days appreciate the effort made by the AR project, particularly demonstration of new varieties that were not known in the area. Most of the farmers had depended only on a few varieties for a long time and had observed decrease in yields over time.

• Some participating farmers in the Amhara region had not been in the habit of growing potato; now they recognize its potential.

• Farmers in Lemo look on potato as a possible stopgap in Enset systems affected by bacterial wilt to maintain food security.

• Farmers reflect that the lessons learned from the demonstration plots will help them adopt the technology next season. They appreciated the experience they have acquired and the confidence they built through field day and variety selection exercises.

• Some farmers reported that they used to grow potato without fertilizer, obtaining only low yields. They recognized the importance of applying fertilizer.


(All photos CIP)

At end-of-season evaluation during potato field day in Lemo Woreda, SNNPR, men and women groups score potato varieties according to farmers’ criteria and present their results.

Success Story 2: 22 DLS with a total capacity of 44 MT were constructed by farmers who participated in the potato demonstration trials.

Farmers inspect DLS built in Lemo woreda, SNNPR. (All photos CIP)

TECHNICAL REPORT FOR CIP-LED ACTIVITIES (1 OCT.–31 DEC. 2013) A-1

ANNEX 1: SUMMARY OF THE RESULTS OF FIELD DEMONSTRATION EVALUATIONS BY CROP AND REGION

Table A1-1. Summary of the mid-season evaluation results by crop and region of best varieties selected and selection criteria

Region Crop Kebele Farmers’ group

Selected variety Main selection criteria

Amhara

Potato Goshe Bado M, F, Y Shenkola Resistance to diseases and number of stems

Gudo Beret Y+W, M Shenkola Resistance to diseases and general crop stand

Wheat Goshe Bado M Tsehay Spike length and earliness

F Menzie Number of tillers and spike length

Gudo Beret M, Y Digalu Number of tillers and spike length

Faba bean Goshe Bado M, W Cs-20-Dk Number of pods and number of tillers

SNNPR

Potato Jawe M, F, Y Gudene Yield and absence of disease symptoms

Upper Gana M, F, Y Gudene Yield and absence of disease symptoms

Wheat Jawe M, F Digalu Germination and tillering

Y Local Stem length and spike length

Upper Gana M, F Digalu Germination and tillering

Y Dende'a Stem length and spike length

Faba bean Jawe M, F, Y Cs-20-Dk Tillering and stem robustness

Upper Gana M, F, Y Walki Germination and tillering

Oromiya

Potato Illu Sanbitu M, F, Y Gudene Yield and tuber number per plant

Wheat Illu Sanbitu M Hidasse Tillering and number of seed/head

F Hidasse, Dende'a

Tillering, spike length and thickness

Y Dende'a No of seed/head and spike thickness

Selka M Hulluka Seed color and disease tolerance

Y Dende'a Disease tolerance and seed color

Faba bean Illu Sanbitu M, F, Y Motti Tillering, number of pods/plant and stem length

Selka M, Y Motti Tillering and disease tolerance

Tigray Potato Tsibet M, W Gudene Earliness and resistance to diseases

Wheat Tsibet M, W Digalu Earliness and tillering capacity

M = male, F = female, Y = youth


Table A1-2. Summary of the end-season evaluation results by crop and region of best varieties selected and selection criteria

Region Crop Kebele Farmers’ group

Selected variety

Main selection criteria

Average yield (MT/ha)

Yield Residue

Amhara Potato Goshe Bado M, F, Y Shenkola Yield and tuber size 44.0

Gudo Beret M, Y Gera Yield, tuber size, and appearance

48.0

SNNPR

Potato Jawe M, F, Y Gudene Yield and absence of disease symptoms

45.0

Upper Gana M, F, Y Gudene Yield and absence of disease symptoms

45.0

Wheat Jawe M, F Digalu Germination and tillering

4.2 2.4

Y Local Stem length and spike length

4.0 2.5

Upper Gana M, F Digalu Germination and tillering

4.2 2.4

Y Dende'a Stem length and spike length

3.2 2.6

Faba bean

Jawe M, F, Y Cs-20-Dk Tillering and stem robustness

2.3 2.5

Upper Gana M, F, Y Walki Germination and tillering

2.6 2.5

Oromiya

Potato Illu Sanbitu M, F, Y Gudene Yield and tuber number per plant

Wheat Illu Sanbitu M Hidasse Tillering, number of seed/head

F Hidasse & Dende'a

Tillering, spike length, and thickness

Y Dende'a Number of seeds/head, spike thickness

Selka M Hulluka Seed color and disease tolerance

Y Dende'a Disease tolerance and seed color

Faba bean

Illu Sanbitu M, F, Y Motti Tillering, number of pods/plant, stem length

Selka M, Y Motti Tillering and disease tolerance

Tigray Potato Tsibet 36.3

Wheat Tsibet

6.0 6.2


ANNEX 2: DETAILED EVALUATION REPORT OF ON-FARM DEMONSTRATION PLOTS

1. Background Africa Research in Sustainable Intensification for the Next Generation: The “Africa Rising-Intensification of Farming Systems in the Highlands of Ethiopia” project has conducted on-farm action research on potato, bread wheat, and faba bean in the 2013 main cropping season (meher) in all of the four AR sites located in four regions (Amhara, SNNPR, Oromiya, and Tigray).

This annex summarizes the major findings of the mid- and end-season evaluations performed by different nonparticipant farmer groups (male, female, and youth) by comparing the performance of three different varieties of each crop through setting of different criteria at both growing stages.

2. Location Basona Worana Woreda, Amhara Region The field demonstrations were carried out in two kebeles of this woreda: Goshe Bado and Gudo Beret. Three farmers participated on each crop from one kebele, which means 18 farmers from both kebeles participated in the demonstration of the three crops in the woreda as a whole. The findings of the evaluations performed by different farmer groups for each crop under demonstration in both kebeles of the woreda are summarized below.

2.1 Potato

2.1.1 Potato mid-season evaluation at Goshe Bado and Gudo Beret kebeles

The main objectives of the mid-season evaluation were to:

• Let other farmers see the performance of each potato variety during the mid-season

• Evaluate each potato variety using farmer selection criteria

• Compare and rank the potato varieties against farmers’ selection criteria.

Methodology used during field evaluation

Visit to selected plot and explanation about the experiment. The owners of the selected demonstration plots explained to the audience the agronomic and pest management practices they applied on their potato plots. They indicated that potatoes were planted with technical support from research and office of agriculture. They explained that they used a row-to-row spacing and plant-to-plant spacing of 75 cm and 30 cm, respectively. Fertilizer was applied at a rate of 180 kg of Urea and 150 of DAP per hectare. Hand weeding and earthing-up were done twice. The potato was sprayed two times, first with Mancozeb and then Ridomyl, to control potato late blight (LB) and early blight.

Setting selection criteria and evaluation. After visiting the plot, the invited farmers were placed into three groups (i.e., men, women, and youth) where possible. Each group set its own evaluation criteria and compared the varieties against these criteria with the help of facilitators. Each group presented the results with appropriate explanation to the rest of the farmers.

Results from mid-season field evaluation at Goshe Bado Kebele

Thirteen members from partner institutions from both D/Berhan and Addis Ababa attended the mid-season evaluation at this kebele. There were also 25 farmers: 12 men, 7 women, and 6 youth.

The result of the evaluation by the men group showed that Shenkola was selected by farmers for its resistance to diseases, crop stand, and adaptation to the area. It was ranked second for earliness. Gera was ranked second for resistance to disease, crop stand, and adaptation to the area. However, the


variety Gudene was valued only for its early maturity. Therefore, considering the four selection criteria set for evaluation, the group ranked Shenkola, Gera, and Gudene as first, second, and third (Table A2-1).

The result of the evaluation by the women’s group showed that Shenkola was chosen by farmers for its erect stand, resistance to leaf diseases, and increased number of stems. Gera was also ranked second for the criteria of erect stand, resistance to leaf diseases, and increased number of stems. Similar to the men group, Gudene was valued only for its early maturity. Thus, considering the four selection criteria set for evaluation the women group ranked Shenkola, Gera, and Gudene as first, second, and third (Table A2-2).

The result of the evaluation by the youth group showed that Shenkola was chosen by farmers for its resistance to diseases, increased number of stems, adaptation to the area, and crop stand. Gera was ranked second for all of the criteria except for resistance to diseases. The group ranked Gudene third. Thus, considering the four selection criteria set for evaluation, the youth group ranked Shenkola, Gera, and Gudene first, second and third (Table A2-3).

Table A2-1 Ranking of potato varieties by men group at Goshe Bado

No. Farmers selection criteria

Variety 1 = Gudene Variety 2 = Gera Variety 3 = Shenkola

1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4

1. Resistance to diseases 12 - - - - 24 - - - - - 48

2. Early maturity - - 12 32 12 - - - - - 36 -

3. Crop stand 12 - - - - - 36 - - - - 48

4. Adaptation to the area 12 - - - - 24 - - - - 36 -

Total 80 96 168

Rank 3 2 1

1= Worst, 2= Moderate, 3= Good, 4= Best. Score of each variety was calculated by multiplying its value given by the number of people who voted (e.g., resistance to disease for the variety Gudene = the value 1 [worst] multiplied by the number of people voting 12, which equals to 12). Note: this scoring methodology applies to all ranking tables in Annex 2.

Table A2-2 Ranking of potato varieties by women group at Goshe Bado



1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4

1. Erect stand - 10 6 - - 4 12 4 - - 3 24

2. Resistance to leaf diseases 3 8 - - - - 18 4 - - - 28

3. Early maturity - - - 28 - 4 15 - - 8 9 -

4. More number of stems 1 8 3 4 - 4 9 8 - - 9 16

Total 71 82 97

Rank 3 2 1

Table A2-3 Ranking of potato varieties by youth group at Goshe Bado



1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4

1. Resistance to diseases - 12 - - - - 18 - - - 18 -

2. More number of stems - 12 - - - 8 6 - - - - 24

3. Adaptation to the area - 12 - - - - 18 - - - 15 4

4. Crop stand 6 - - - - - 18 - - - 6 16

Total 42 68 83

Rank 3 2 1


Results from mid-season field evaluation at Gudo Beret Kebele

Twenty-seven farmers participated: 17 men, 8 youth, and 2 women. Therefore participants were divided only into two groups.

The result of the evaluation by the combined youths plus women group (Table A2-4) showed that Shenkola was ranked first for its resistance to leaf diseases, general stand, and number of stems. It was ranked second for early maturity. The variety Gera was ranked second for all of the selection criteria except for being the last for early maturity. The variety Gudene was positively selected by the group only for its early maturity. Thus, considering the selection criteria set for evaluation, the youths plus women group ranked Shenkola, Gera, and Gudene first, second, and third.

The men group ranked Shenkola first for its general crop stand, resistance to diseases, and early maturity (Table A2-5). The variety Gera was ranked second for all of the selection criteria except for being ranked first for stem number. Gudene was the last for all of the criteria considered by the group. Thus, considering the four selection criteria set for evaluation, the men group ranked Shenkola, Gera, and Gudene first, second, and third.

Therefore, from the mid-season evaluation conducted at Gudo Beret, one can conclude that the varieties Shenkola, Gera, and Gudene were ranked first, second, and third.

Table A2-4 Ranking of potato varieties by youths + women group at Gudo Beret


Variety 1 = Shenkola Variety 2 = Gera Variety 3 = Gudene

1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4

1. Resistance to leaf diseases - - - 40 - 12 12 - 9 2 - -

2. Crop stand - - - 40 - 8 15 - 10 - - -

3. Number of stems - - 27 4 1 14 6 - 1 12 6 -

4. Early maturity - - 30 - - 20 - - - - - 40

Total 141 88 80

Rank 1 2 3

Table A2-5 Ranking of potato varieties by men group at Gudo Beret



1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4

1. Crop stand - 2 9 52 - 12 18 16 8 14 - -

2. Resistance to diseases - 4 6 44 - 10 30 - 13 4 - -

3. Early maturity - - 36 12 - 2 45 - 1 4 18 20

4. Number of stems - - 24 20 - - 51 - - 4 6 40

Total 209 184 132

Rank 1 2 3

Potato final evaluation at Goshe Bado and Gudo Beret Kebeles

The main aim of this end-season evaluation was to compare the performance of the varieties based on yield and yield-related parameters as well as by tasting the cooked potato. Thus, on 25 October 2013, people from international centers, D/Birhan research, D/Birhan University, Woreda Office of Agriculture, kebele development agents, and farmers gathered in the kebele and conducted the end-season evaluation.


Methodology used during final evaluation

Yield sample data collection. The AR team predetermined that the total harvestable area was to be 2.25 m2 . Harvesting was carried out considering the slope or orientation and the fertility gradient of the field. Two middle rows were chosen, leaving enough border at both ends. Ten plants, 5 from each row (5 from the upper part and another 5 from the lower part of the plot) were carefully dug by the model farmer. The tubers were then collected and kept in separate bags for each variety. The collected tubers from each variety were placed on the ground for making observations such as tuber size, scab, insect attack, cracked, and green tubers. The tubers were sorted into small-sized (unmarketable) and large-sized (marketable) tubers, counted, and weighed. Data for each variety were taken on total yield, marketable yield, unmarketable yield, total number of tubers, marketable number of tubers, and unmarketable number of tubers. One of the model farmers (Mulugeta Asrat) harvested 3 plants per plot from each of the three varieties, which were cooked by the housewife for tasting by the groups.

Setting evaluation criteria. The harvested potato tubers, together with the boiled potato, were displayed in an open place with a clear label to identify each variety. The participant farmers were divided into three groups: men, women, and youth. From the mid-season evaluation we had learned that to avoid confusion among the farmers, there should be only three categories: poor (1), medium (2), and good (3). Each farmer had the opportunity to taste each variety and give his opinion within his group. Each group set its own selection criteria and evaluated each variety against these criteria with the help of the facilitators and finally ranked them. Each group presented the result with appropriate reasoning to the rest of the farmers.

Results from final-season field evaluation at Goshe Bado Kebele

Twenty-one farmers participated: 9 women, 7 youth, and 5 men. The result of each group based on its own selection criteria and rank is presented below.

The results of evaluation by the women group indicate that Shenkola was ranked first for its total yield and size of tuber, but was second for taste. Gera was ranked second for yield and size of tuber but was selected first for its taste. Gudene was ranked last for the criteria set by the group. Thus the group ranked Shenkola, Gera, and Gudene as first, second, and third (Table A2-6).

The result of the evaluation by the youth group showed that Shenkola was positively selected by the group for its yield, tuber size, appearance, shape, and taste. Gera was ranked second for all the selection criteria set by the group except its taste. The group ranked Gudene third for its yield, tuber size, and appearance; however, it was ranked second for its shape and taste. Thus, the group ranked Shenkola, Gera, and Gudene as first, second, and third (Table A2-7).

The result of evaluation by the men’s group in Table A2-8 showed that Shenkola was ranked first for its yield, tuber size, small-sized tuber, taste, and appearance. Gera was ranked second for all of the criteria set by the group. The variety Gudene was ranked third for all of the criteria, except it was ranked second for its taste. Therefore, the group ranked Shenkola, Gera, and Gudene as first, second, and third.

Table A2-6 Ranking of potato varieties by women group at Goshe Bado


Variety 1 = Shenkola Variety 2 = Gera Variety 3 = Gudene 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3

1. Total yield - - 27 - 18 - 9 - - 2. Taste of the variety - 2 18 - 8 15 3 10 - 3. Size of the tuber - - 27 - 18 - 9 - -

Total 74 59 31 Rank 1 2 3 1= Poor, 2= Medium, 3= Good. Score of each variety was calculated by multiplying its value given by the number of people who voted (e.g., total yield for the variety Shenkola = the value 3 [good] multiplied by the number of people voted [9] for 27).


Table A2-7 Ranking of potato varieties by youth group at Goshe Bado



1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3

1. Total yield - - 21 1 12 - 6 2 -

2. Size of the tuber - - 21 1 12 - 3 8 -

3. Appearance of the variety - - 21 - 10 3 5 2 -

4. Shape of the variety - - 21 - 14 - - 14 -

5. Taste of the variety - - 21 6 2 - - 14 -

Total 105 61 54

Rank 1 2 3

Table A2-8 Ranking of potato varieties by men group at Goshe Bado



1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3

1. Total yield - - 15 - 10 - 5 - -

2. Size of the tuber - - 15 - 10 - 5 - -

3. Number of small sizes tubers - - 15 1 8 - 4 2 -

4. Taste of the variety - - 15 - 10 - - 10 -

5. Appearance of the variety - - 15 - 10 - 5 - -

Total 75 49 31

Rank 1 2 3

Yield results from sample data at Goshe Bado Kebele. Data of the three varieties on yield and yield related parameters were taken from the demonstration plots in the kebele. The average sample data collected from the demonstration plots suggests that Shenkola (44 MT/ha), Gudene (36 MT/ha), and Gera (30 MT/ha) were first, second, and third, respectively, in terms of both the total yield and marketable yield. Variety Gudene had the highest unmarketable yield compared to the other two varieties. Gudene recorded the highest number of unmarketable tubers compared to Gera and Shenkola varieties (Table A2-9). The soil type of the plot is red light soil. The soil was highly compacted because earthing-up had been done under wet and muddy conditions. There was also a water-logging problem on the whole field, with the effect on variety Gera particularly high, which resulted in low yield. Gudene was severely affected by LB.

Table A2-9 Yield and yield related parameters of each variety at Goshe Bado

Variety TY (MT/ha) MY (MT/ha) UMY (MT/ha) TNT NMT NUMT

Shenkola 44 40 4 680,000 457,778 222,222

Gera 30 27 3 825,555 603,333 222,222

Gudene 36 30 6 836,444 522,222 314,222

Mean 37 32 4 780,667 527,778 252,889

TY = total yield, MY= marketable yield, UMY= unmarketable yield, TNT= total number of tubers, NMT= number of marketable tubers, NUMT= number of unmarketable tubers, and MT/ha = metric ton per hectare.

Results from final-season field evaluation at Gudo Beret Kebele

Twenty-four farmers participated in the potato evaluation: 13 men and 11 youth.

The evaluation result of potato varieties by men group at Gudo Beret showed that Gera was ranked first for total yield, tuber size, and taste but ranked second for tuber numbers and appearance. Gudene


was ranked first for tuber numbers and second for taste, but ranked third for total yield, tuber size, and appearance. Gudene was ranked first for appearance and second for total yield and tuber size, but ranked third for tuber numbers and taste. The aggregate evaluation results by the group indicate that Gera, Shenkola, and Gudene were ranked as first, second, and third (Table A2-10).

The evaluation result of potato varieties by the youth group at Gudo Beret (Table A2-11) shows that Gera was ranked first for total yield, tuber size, and appearance but ranked second for tuber numbers and taste. Gudene was ranked first for tuber numbers and taste but ranked third for total yield, tuber size, and appearance. Shenkola was ranked second for total yield, tuber size, and appearance but ranked third for tuber numbers and taste. The aggregate evaluation result by the group indicate that Gera, Shenkola, and Gudene were ranked as first, second, and third which agrees with the men group.

Table A2-10 Ranking of potato varieties by men group at Gudo Beret


Variety 1 = Gera Variety 2 = Gudene Variety 3 = Shenkola

1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3

1. Total number of tuber - 26 - - - 39 13 - -

2. Total yield - - 39 13 - - - 26 -

3. Size of the tuber - - 39 13 - - - 26 -

4. Appearance of the variety - 8 27 12 2 - - 10 27

5 Taste of the variety - 4 33 1 8 27 3 8 18

Total 176 115 131

Rank 1 3 2

Table A-11 Ranking of potato varieties by youth group at Gudo Beret


Variety 1 = Gera Variety 2 = Gudene Variety 3 = Shenkola

1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3

1. Total number of tuber - 22 - - - 33 11 - -

2. Total yield - - 33 11 - - - 22 -

3. Size of the tuber - 6 24 11 - - - 16 9

4. Appearance of the variety - 10 21 11 - - - 16 9

5 Taste of the variety - 16 9 - - 33 9 4 -

Total 141 99 96

Rank 1 2 3

Yield results from sample data at Gudo Beret Kebele. Sample data of the three varieties on yield and yield-related parameters were taken from the plots of all the three farmers’ demonstration fields. The sample data collected from an area of 2.25 m2 was converted into hectares and the mean values of the three farmers’ fields (Table A2-12). Gera, Shenkola, and Gudene were ranked first, second, and third, respectively, in terms of both the total yield and marketable yield.

Table A-12 Yield and yield related parameters of each variety tested at Gudo Beret

Variety TY (MT/ha) MY (MT/ha) UMY (MT/ha) TNT NMT NUMT

Shenkola 44 42 2 502,222 386,667 115,555

Gera 48 46 2 557,037 429,630 127,408

Gudene 32 27 6 779,259 391,111 388,148

Mean 41 38 3 612,840 402,469 210,370


2.2 Wheat

In Basona Worana Woreda only the mid-season evaluation of wheat was conducted. The results are given below by location and farmer groups involved. The main objectives of the mid-season evaluation were to:

• Let others farmers see the performance of each wheat variety during the mid-season

• Evaluate each wheat variety using farmer selection criteria

• Compare and rank the wheat varieties against farmers’ selection criteria.

2.2.1 Wheat mid-season evaluation at Goshe Bado and Gudo Beret kebeles

In planting wheat on the demonstration plots, the broad bed and furrow (BBF) water draining method was used. A seed rate of 150 kg and fertilizer with a rate of 225 kg of Urea and 150 kg of DAP/ha was applied. Hand weeding was done three times. After seeing the performance of each variety, farmers were asked to set their own evaluation criteria to evaluate and differentiate among the three varieties.

Results from mid-season field evaluation at Goshe Bado kebele

Twenty farmers participated: 15 men and 5 women. The evaluation and ranking result of the two groups are presented below.

The evaluation results of wheat varieties by the men group at Goshe Bado showed that variety Tsehay was ranked first for its spike length and earliness but ranked second for criteria of number of tillers and height. Variety Menzie was ranked first for number of tillers and height but ranked second for spike length and third for earliness. Variety Digalu was ranked third for all criteria except that it was ranked second for early maturity. The aggregate result of evaluation of the three varieties based on four selection criteria by the group ranked Tsehay, Menzie, and Digalu as first, second, and third (Table A2-13).

The evaluation result of the women group at Goshe Bado (Table A2-14) showed that Menzie was ranked first for its number of tillers, spike length, and height, and ranked third for earliness. Tsehay was ranked first for earliness but ranked as second for spike length and height and third for number of tillers. Digalu was ranked first for spike length and second for early maturity but ranked third for number of tillers and height. The aggregate result of evaluation of the three varieties based on four selection criteria by the group ranked Menzie, Tsehay, and Digalu as first, second, and third. This ranking order differs from the evaluation result of the men group.

Therefore, from the mid-season evaluation conducted at Goshe Bado the men group ranked Tsehay first but the women group ranked Menzie as first. Both ranked Digalu as third. We recommend observing the final season evaluation for conclusion.

Table A2-13 Ranking of bread wheat varieties by men group at Goshe Bado


Variety 1 = Digalu Variety 2 = Tsehay Variety 3 = Menzie

1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3

1. Number of tillers 15 - - - 16 21 - 10 30

2. Spike length 15 - - - - 45 - 24 9

3. Height (for livestock feed ) 15 - - - 22 12 - 14 24

4. Early maturity 1 24 - - 45 14 2 -

Total 70 161 127

Rank 3 1 2

1= Poor, 2= Medium, 3= Good. Score of each variety was calculated by multiplying its value given by the number of people who voted (e.g., number of tillers for the variety Digalu = the value 1 [poor] multiplied by the number of people voted [15] which equals 15). Note: this ranking methodology is used for Tables A2-13 through A2-16.


Table A2-14 Selection criteria and ranking of bread wheat varieties by women group at Goshe Bado



1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3

1. Number of tillers 2 6 - 3 4 - - - 15 2. Spike length - - 15 - 10 - - - 15 3. Height (for livestock feed ) 5 - - - 10 - - - 15 4. Early maturity - 10 - - - 15 5 - -

Total 38 42 50

Rank 3 2 1


Twenty farmers participated: 13 men and 7 youth. The evaluation result of wheat varieties by the men group at Gudo Beret showed that Digalu ranked first for number of tillers and height but second for criteria of spike length and early maturity. Tsehay was ranked first for its spike length and earliness but second and third for number of tillers and height, respectively. Menzie was ranked second only for height, otherwise it ranked third for all of the other three criteria. The aggregate result of evaluation of the three varieties based on four selection criteria by the group ranked Tsehay, Digalu, and Menzie as first, second, and third (Table A2-15).

The evaluation result of the youth group at Gudo Beret (Table A2-16) showed that Digalu ranked first for number of tillers and spike length but second for height and earliness. Tsehay was ranked first for spike length, height, and earliness but second for number of tillers. Menzie was ranked second for number of tillers and spike length but third for height and earliness. The aggregate result of evaluation of the three varieties based on four selection criteria by the youth group ranked Tsehay, Digalu, and Menzie as first, second, and third, which is similar to that of the men group.

From the mid-season evaluation conducted at Gudo Beret, farmers ranked bread wheat varieties Tsehay, Digalu, and Menzie in order of preference.

Table A2-15 Ranking of bread wheat varieties by men group at Gudo Beret



1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3

1. Number of tillers - - 39 - 24 3 - 26 -

2. Spike length 3 14 9 - 6 30 1 24 -

3. Height (for livestock feed ) - 18 12 - 26 - - 24 3

4. Early maturity - 26 - - - 39 10 6 -

Total 121 128 94

Rank 2 1 3

Table A2-16 Ranking of bread wheat varieties by youth group at Gudo Beret


Variety 1 = Digalu Variety 2 = Tsehay Variety 3 = Menzie 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3

1. Number of tillers - - 21 - 14 - - 14 -

2. Spike length - 8 9 - 8 9 4 6 -

3. Height (for livestock feed ) - 10 6 - 4 15 - 12 3

4. Early maturity - 14 - - - 21 6 2 -

Total 68 71 47

Rank 2 1 3


Farmers’ feedback on wheat field demonstrations:

• Some farmers were interested in obtaining the wheat varieties. Some pronounced themselves highly motivated by the performance of Tsehay and asked how they could acquire the seed.

• Some suggested the need for practical support from experts on row planting during planting time.

• Farmers also suggested future introductions of bread wheat varieties characterized by long straw to the area, such types of varieties having a double advantage of serving as food and feed.

2.3 Faba Bean

Only mid-season evaluation was conducted in Basona Worana Woreda. Results are given below by location and farmer groups involved.

The main objectives of the mid-season evaluation were to:

• Let other farmers see the performance of each faba bean variety during the mid-season.

• Evaluate each faba bean variety using farmer selection criteria

• Compare and rank the faba bean varieties against farmers’ selection criteria.

2.3.1 Faba bean mid-season evaluation at Goshe Bado and Gudo Beret kebele

Similar methods and procedures were applied to undertake mid-season evaluation on faba bean in both Kebeles of AR sites. Row planting was used with a row-to-row spacing of 40 cm and plant-to-plant spacing of about 5–7 cm. Fertilizer was applied at a rate of 100 DAP and hand weeded three times. The field was sprayed two times, first with Mancozeb and then Ridomyl, to control the new fungus disease locally called Kormid.

Results from mid-season field evaluation at Goshe Bado kebele

The evaluation result of the men group for faba bean at Goshe Bado (Table A2-17) showed that Cs-20-Dk was ranked first for number of pods, number of tillers, and height. Degaga was ranked second for all of the three criteria set by the group. Walki was ranked third. The overall evaluation result ranked Cs-20-Dk, Degaga, and Walki as first, second, and third.

The evaluation result of the women group at Goshe Bado (Table A2-18) showed that Degaga was ranked first for merits of number of pods, number of tillers, and height. Cs-20-Dk was ranked second for number of pods and height but first for number of tillers, with equal rank as Degaga. Walki was ranked third for all of the three evaluation criteria. The aggregate result of evaluation based on three selection criteria by the group ranked Degaga, Cs-20-Dk, and Walki as first, second, and third. This does not agree with that of the men group.

Therefore, from the mid-season evaluation conducted at Goshe Bado, the men group and women group gave different rankings except for Walki. Conclusions are difficult to make mainly because of poor performance due to disease pressure.

Table A2-17 Selection criteria and ranking of faba bean varieties by men group at Goshe Bado


Variety 1 = Degaga Variety 2 = Walki Variety 3 = Cs-20-Dk 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3

1. Number of pods - 28 3 15 - - - 2 42

2. Number of tillers - 14 24 15 - - - - 45

3. Height - 30 - 15 - - - - 45

Total 99 45 134

Rank 2 3 1


Table A2-18 Selection criteria and ranking of faba bean varieties by women group at Goshe Bado


Variety 1 = Degaga Variety 2 = Walki Variety 3 = Cs-20-Dk

1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3

1. Number of pods - - 15 5 - - - 10 -

2. Number of tillers - 10 - 3 - 6 - 10 -

3. Height - - 15 5 - - - 10 -

Total 40 19 30

Rank 1 3 2


All of the three faba bean demonstration plots were very highly affected by disease, although chemicals were applied as soon as the disease was first seen on the crop, indicating that it was possibly viral in origin. Therefore, there was no need to evaluate faba bean demonstration plots in the kebele in general.

Farmers’ feedback on faba bean field demonstrations were:

• The major problem with faba bean was infestation with unknown diseases, possibly viral, as application of chemicals could not protect the crop from damage, especially in Gudo Beret Kebele where almost all the three demonstration fields were highly affected.

• Some of the farmers noted that row planting used in faba bean demonstration is difficult to do on their farms because it is labor intensive. They pointed out the need for row planter.

• Some farmers encouraged the project to do some work on field pea.

3. Location: Lemo woreda, SNNPR

3.1 Potato

Two varieties, Gudene and Gera, along with different spray regimes were demonstrated on six farmers’ fields in both kebeles. Two field days, mid-season and end-season, were staged on selected farmers’ fields to collect the feedbacks of farmers at different groups, which are summarized below.

Weighted average results from mid and end-season evaluation at Lemo

During the mid-season evaluation the men groups at both kebeles consistently selected Gudene variety but with different spray regimes. However, they all unanimously selected variety Gudene with three sprays at the end-season evaluation. Men farmers of both kebeles were generally happy with this variety irrespective of the spray regimes and also with Gera variety as the local varieties are completely unproductive. The farmers were also impressed with the cost of chemicals on the demonstration plots. Poor cooking quality of Gera variety was raised as a drawback. The weighted average results of the two season evaluation are presented in Tables A2-19.1 and A2-19.2 for Jawe and Upper Gana kebeles, respectively.

The preference of women farmers was different between the two kebeles during the mid-season evaluation. However, they were unanimous in their preference at the end-season evaluation and selected Gudene variety with three sprays. Like the men farmers, female farmers are also happy with all the technologies demonstrated (Tables A2-20.1 and A2-20.2).

The young farmers at both kebeles exhibited similar preference as the men groups. They rated Gera as the second best variety but mentioned its poor cooking quality as the main drawback (Tables A2-21.1 and A2-21.2).


Table A2-19.1 Selection criteria and ranking of potato varieties by the men group at Jawe kebele

Criteria

Weighted average points

Gudene (3 sprays) Gera Gudene (2 sprays)

Yield 54 36 36

Clearance from disease 54 54 54

Tuber size 54 36 54

Taste 54 36 54

Tuber attractiveness 54 54 54

Total 270 216 252

Rank 1 3 2

Table A2-19.2 Selection criteria and ranking of potato varieties by the men group at Upper Gana kebele

Criteria



Yield 57 38 57


Tuber size 45 57 45

Taste 57 38 57

Tuber attractiveness 57 50 57

Total 273 240 254

Rank 1 3 2

Table A2-20.1 Selection criteria and ranking of potato varieties by the women group at Jawe kebele

Criteria



Yield 27 9 18


Cooking time 27 18 27

Taste 27 9 27

Total 108 63 90

Rank 1 3 2

Table A2-20.2 Selection criteria and ranking of potato varieties by the women group at Upper Gana kebele

Criteria



Yield 9 3 6


Tuber size 6 9 6

Taste 9 6 9

Total 35 27 27

Rank 1 2 2


Table A2-21.1 Selection criteria and ranking of potato varieties by the youth group at Jawe kebele

Criteria



Yield 39 26 26


Cooking quality 39 26 39

Taste 35 23 35

Tuber size 25 26 39

Tuber shape 39 26 28

Total 216 148 194

Rank 1 3 2

Table 21.2 Selection criteria and ranking of potato varieties by the youth group at Upper Gana kebele

Criteria



Yield 21 14 14


Cooking quality 21 14 21

Taste 21 14 21

Tuber size and shape 21 20 21

Cooking time 21 18 21

Total 125 94 119

Rank 1 3 2

3.2 Wheat

Three varieties, Digelu, Dende’a, and Kekeba, were demonstrated at the two kebeles of Lemo woreda on the fields of six farmers. Farmers were divided into groups—men, women, and youth—and were given the opportunity to evaluate these varieties during the mid-season field day. The end-season field day is yet to be conducted. The feedbacks from the mid-season field days are summarized below.

Weighted average results of both mid- and end-season evaluation at Lemo

The men groups at both kebeles appreciated the germination ability, tillering capacity, spike length, and stem strength of Digelu and Dende’a varieties. The group at Jewe kebele found Kekeba variety better than the local variety in those parameters, while farmers in the other kebele came to a different conclusion. Farmers were also impressed by the crop management practices applied on the demonstration plots even though they are not quite sure about the adoption. Men farmers pointed out that the early maturity nature of Kekeba variety is not well adjusted to the long growing season of the kebeles unless the planting time is adjusted (i.e., they recommended late planting). Moreover, they found Dende’a variety relatively sensitive to rust (Tables A2-22.1 and A2-22.2).

The women groups at both kebeles were impressed by Digelu and Dende’a varieties for their spike length, spike thickness, tillering ability, and late maturing nature. The Jewe group selected Kekeba variety as better than their own variety. Similar as the men groups, they raised as drawbacks the early maturing nature of Kekeba and rust susceptibility of Dende’a (Tables A2-23.1 and A2-23.2).

The youth groups’ preferences were different from the men and women groups. The group at Jewe did not identify a better variety than their own with regard to tillering ability, stem length, spike length, and


disease tolerance (Table A2-24.1). At the Upper Gana kebele, however, farmers confirmed that their variety was inferior to Digelu and Dende’a varieties. Variety Kekeba was disliked (Table A2-24.2). As in the case of the men and women groups, early maturity nature of Kekeba and rust susceptibility of Dende’a were identified as drawbacks of the demonstrated varieties.

Table A2-22.1 Selection criteria and ranking of wheat varieties by the men group at Jawe kebele

Criteria Weighted average points

Digelu Dende’a Kekeba Local

Germination 34 36 36 9

Tillering 36 36 27 18

Stem strength 36 36 27 18

Disease tolerance 36 9 27 36

Spike length 36 36 18 18

Leaf color 36 36 36 27

Maturity time /earliness/ 27 27 36 18

Stem length 36 27 18 27

Total 277 243 225 171

Rank 1 2 3 4

Table A2-22.2 Selection criteria and ranking of wheat varieties by the men group at Upper Gana kebele

Criteria









Growth uniformity 58 45 45 45

Total 385 344 196 351

Rank 1 3 4 2

Table A2-23.1 Selection criteria and ranking of wheat varieties by the women group at Jawe kebele

Criteria





Leaf width 40 40 30 20

Spike length and width 30 40 30 20

Maturity time /lateness/ 30 40 20 40

Total 277 243 225 171

Rank 1 2 3 4


Table A2-23.2 Selection criteria and ranking of wheat varieties by the women group at Upper Gana kebele

Criteria





Leaf width 16 16 12 12

Spike length and width 12 16 8 8


Tillering 13 15 8 8

Total 85 84 62 68

Rank 1 2 4 3

Table A2-24.1 Selection criteria and ranking of wheat varieties by the youth group at Jawe kebele

Criteria






Stem thickness 27 27 18 31


Adaptation 28 29 18 36

Maturity time/lateness/ 28 25 9 36

Total 200 168 107 220

Rank 2 3 4 1

Table A2-24.2 Selection criteria and ranking of wheat varieties by the youth group at Upper Gana kebele

Criteria










Total 421 436 162 366

Rank 2 1 4 3

3.3 Faba bean

Three varieties, CS 20 DK, Degaga, and Walki, were demonstrated on six farmers’ fields along with farmers’ variety. Mid-season field days were conducted on selected host farmers’ fields.


Weighted average results of both mid- and end-season evaluation at Lemo

The men groups at both kebeles preferred all the demonstrated varieties over their own variety with regard to important parameters like tillering ability, stem strength, pod setting, and disease tolerance. The youth group ranked both CS 20 Dk and Walki first and second at Upper Gana, respectively (Tables A2-25.1 and A2-25.2). No drawbacks were raised on the demonstrated varieties by the groups at both kebeles.

Women at Jewe were interested in CS 20 DK and Walki varieties, whereas women at the other kebele preferred all the demonstrated varieties. Women at Jewe kebele found variety Degaga inferior with regard to number of seeds per pod compared to the local ones (Table A2-26.1). On the other hand, the group at Upper Gana ranked Walki first and CS 20 DK second (Table A2-26.2). Narrow plant spacing was the drawback raised by these groups.

Young farmers at Jewe kebele had similar preference as women farmers of the kebele. They disliked Degaga variety due to poor pod setting, pod persistence, and stem strength (Table A2-27.1). As was the case in the men and women groups, young farmers at Upper Gana kebele were happy with all the demonstrated varieties (Table A2-27.2). The narrow spacing between plants was the concern raised by these groups also. Table A2-25.1 Selection criteria and ranking of faba bean varieties by the men group at Jawe kebele

Criteria


CS 20 DK Degaga Walki Local






Pod setting along the stem 48 24 30 36

Early flowering 48 23 36 24

Total 290 192 253 168

Rank 1 3 2 4

Table A2-25.2 Selection criteria and ranking of faba bean varieties by the men group at Upper Gana kebele

Criteria









Total 198 132 264 66

Rank 2 3 1 4


Table A2-26.1 Selection criteria and ranking of faba bean varieties by the women group at Jawe kebele

Criteria




Vegetative growth 40 20 30 20

Pod setting 40 20 30 20

No of seeds in the pod 40 20 30 30

Total 160 80 130 100

Rank 1 4 2 3

Table A2-26.2 Selection criteria and ranking of faba bean varieties by the women group at Upper Gana kebele

Criteria






Leaf and stem color 12 12 12 9

Adaptation 9 6 12 6


Total 63 51 69 45

Rank 2 3 1 4

Table A2-27.1 Selection criteria and ranking of faba bean varieties by the youth group at Jawe kebele

Criteria






Pod persistence 44 22 33 44




Total 293 159 263 216

Rank 1 4 2 3


Table A2-27.2 Selection criteria and ranking of faba bean varieties by the youth group at Upper Gana kebele

Criteria








Leaf and stem color 31 23 32 8


Total 186 137 224 73

Rank 2 3 1 4

3.5 Average yield estimates of the three demonstrated crops at Lemo woreda

Table A2-27.3 presents yields of grain/tuber and residue data for the three demonstrated crops (wheat, potato, and faba bean) for each corresponding varieties and the local for comparison in Lemo woreda. For potato no residue yield was measured. Overall, the varieties Digelu (wheat), Walki (faba bean), and Gudene with 3 sprays (potato) were found to be the highest yielders with regard to grain and tuber. In terms of residue yield, there is no significant difference among the wheat as well as faba bean varieties.

Table A2-27.3 Average yield of grain/tuber and residue of the three demonstrated crops at Lemo

Crop Variety

Average yield (MT/ha)

Grain Residue

Wheat

Digelu 4.2 2.4

Denda’a 3.2 2.6

Kekeba 3.5 2.4

Local 4.0 2.5

Faba bean

Degaga 2.3 2.3

Walki 2.6 2.5

CS 20 DK 2.3 2.5

local 1.3 1.0

Potato

Gudene with 3 spray 45.0 -

Gudene with 2 spray 41.8 -

Gera 37.9 -

Local 13.1 -

4. Location: Sinana woreda, Oromiya

4.1 Wheat

Two varieties originating from Sinana Agricultural Research Center (SARC) (Hidasse and Hulluka) and one variety from Kulumsa Agricultural Research Center (KARC) (Dende’a) were demonstrated on six farmers’ fields in the two kebeles. Owing to their long experience of wheat production, farmers at both kebeles were critical in evaluating the varieties. Mid-season evaluation was conducted at both kebeles and the following feedbacks were collected.


Average results of both mid-season evaluation of wheat plots at Sinana

Men farmers’ preference differed at the two kebeles of Sinana woreda. Hidasse was selected as the best variety at Sanbitu (Table A2-28.1), whereas Hulluka was selected at Selka kebele (Table A2-28.2). Farmers at Sanbitu kebele liked the tillering ability, number of seeds per head, disease tolerance, and early maturity of Hidasse. The Selka kebele men farmers were impressed with earliness, disease tolerance, white seed color, and short haulm of Hulluka. Farmers at both kebeles were concerned about adopting row planting due to their large land holdings.

Only women farmers from Ilu Sanbitu kebele could be engaged for the mid-season evaluation process. Women farmers of the other kebele could not participate due to remoteness of the fields from their villages. The farmers selected both Hidasse and Dende’a as equally best varieties based on their tillering ability, spike length, and thickness (Table A2-29.1).

Young farmers at both kebeles preferred variety Dende’a. They were impressed by the tillering ability, spike length and thickness, and number of seeds per spike. However, the youth group at Selka kebele has given equal rank tor the local variety as well (Tables A2-30.1 and A2-30.2).

Table A2-28.1 Selection criteria and ranking of wheat varieties by the men group at Illu Sanbitu kebele

Criteria


Hidasse Dende’a Hulluka Local

Tillering 27 18 9 9

No. of seed/head 27 18 9 27


Maturity time/earliness 27 18 9 9

Purity 9 27 18 18

Total 117 99 54 72

Rank 1 2 4 3

Table A2-28.2 Selection criteria and ranking of wheat varieties by the men group at Selka kebele

Criteria









Seed color (whiteness) 30 57 72 57

Seed size 48 72 37 72

Total 348 447 457 447

Rank 4 2 1 2


Table A2-29.1 Selection criteria and ranking of wheat varieties by the women group at Illu Sanbitu kebele

Criteria



Tillering 12 8 4 4

No. of seeds/plant 8 4 4 12


Plant height 12 8 4 4

Spike length and thickness 8 12 4 4

Total 44 44 20 32

Rank 1 1 4 3

Table A2-30.1 Selection criteria and ranking of wheat varieties by the youth group at Illu Sanbitu kebele

Criteria




Spike thickness 20 29 10 12





Total 129 153 60 111

Rank 2 1 4 3

Table A2-30.2 Selection criteria and ranking of wheat varieties by the youth group at Selka kebele

Criteria



Stem strength and length 15 45 26 45





Seed color (whiteness) 43 31 30 31


Total 200 232 170 232

Rank 3 1 4 1

4.2 Faba bean

Three varieties (Moti, Shallo, and Mosissa) originating from SARC were demonstrated on six farmers’ fields at both kebeles of Sinana woreda. Faba bean is a relatively new crop to the system at Ilu Sanbitu kebele as compared to Selka kebele. As a result, farmers at Selka kebele were able to characterize the varieties in greater depth than were farmers at Ilu Sanbitu kebele. The feedback during the mid-season evaluation is summarized below.


Average results of both mid-season evaluation on faba bean plots at Sinana

Men farmers at both kebeles unanimously selected Moti as the best variety based on vegetative and yield component parameters. Shallo and Mossisa are ranked second and third (Tables A2-31.1 and A2-31.2). No immediate concern was raised about the characteristics of any of the evaluated varieties.

Only women farmers of Ilu Sanbitu kebele could be involved in the mid-season evaluation process. Women farmers of the other kebele could not participate due to remoteness of the fields from their villages. As did the men farmers, women farmers selected Moti as the best variety; no particular concern was raised by them on all the varieties (Table A2-32).

The preference of young farmers at both kebeles did not differ from the other farmers. Consequently, they rated Moti variety as the best among others and raised no special concern (Tables A2-33.1 and A2-33.2).

Table 31.1 Selection criteria and ranking of faba bean varieties by the men group at Illu Sanbitu kebele

Criteria


Motti Shallo Mossisa Tillering 24 16 8 Stem length 24 16 8 Disease tolerance 24 16 8 No of pods/plant 24 16 8 Adaptation 24 16 8

Total 120 80 40 Rank 1 2 3

Table A2-31.2 Selection criteria and ranking of faba bean varieties by the men group at Selka kebele

Criteria


Motti Shallo Mossisa Tillering 39 28 15 Stem strength 37 14 24 No of pods/plant 39 27 15 Disease tolerance 41 28 19 No of seeds/pod 43 24 19 Flower abortion 22 19 28 Maturity time 26 39 26

Total 247 179 146 Rank 1 2 3

Table A2-32 Selection criteria and ranking of faba bean varieties by the women group at Illu Sanbitu kebele

Criteria


Motti Shallo Mossisa Tillering 15 10 5 Plant height 10 15 10 No of pod/plant 15 10 5 No of seeds/pod 15 10 5 Disease tolerance 15 15 5 Seed size 15 15 10

Total 85 75 40 Rank 1 2 3


Table A2-33.1 Selection criteria and ranking of faba bean varieties by the youth group at Illu Sanbitu kebele

Criteria


Motti Shallo Mossisa

Tillering 27 19 10

Disease tolerance 30 26 10

Plant height 30 27 10

Seed size 30 20 10

No of seed/pod 30 20 10

Total 147 112 50

Rank 1 2 3

Table A2-33.2 Selection criteria and ranking of faba bean varieties by the women group at Selka kebele

Criteria


Motti Shallo Mossisa

Tillering 72 28 48

Disease tolerance 72 41 48

Stem strength 72 26 48

Seed size 72 40 48

No of pod/plant 72 44 46

Leaf size 72 28 48

Maturity time/earliness/ 50 70 45

Total 482 277 331

Rank 1 3 2

4.3 Potato

Potato varieties and agricultural practices similar to those in Lemo woreda were also demonstrated at both kebeles of Sinana woreda. As in the case of faba bean, potato is also not widely grown in the area. The two stages of the evaluation were only conducted at Ilu Sanbitu kebele as the plots at the other kebele were found to be mixed with an unknown potato variety. The feedback from the two stages evaluations is summarized as follows:

Average results of both mid- and end-season evaluation on potato plots at Sinana. Men farmers preferred variety Gudene at both spray regimes over Gera regards vegetative, yield, and cooking characteristics. However, they perceived the spacing to be very narrow to apply the necessary management practices (Table A2-34).

As was the case with the men farmers, the women farmers also preferred Gudene variety at both spray regimes over Gera in all characteristics. Specifically, they disliked Gera variety due to its deeper eye positioning, which is not comfortable for processing (Table A2-35).

The preferences and concerns of young farmers were not different from the other farmers in many cases, but they ranked Gudene with two sprays over the three-spray regime (Table A2-36).


Table A2-34 Selection criteria and ranking of potato varieties by the men group at Illu Sanbitu kebele

Criteria


Gudene (3 spray) Gera Gudene (2 spray)

Yield 27 18 27


Uniformity of tuber size 21 14 21

Taste 24 16 24

Number of tubers 24 16 24

Adaptation 27 18 27

Total 147 98 147

Rank 1 3 2

Table A2-35 Selection criteria and ranking of potato varieties by the women group at Illu Sanbitu kebele

Criteria



Tuber color 10 15 10


No of tubers/plant 10 5 10

Taste 10 5 10

Suitability for cooking 10 15 10

Eye positioning 15 5 15

Total 70 55 70

Rank 1 3 2

Table A2-36 Selection criteria and ranking of potato varieties by the youth group at Illu Sanbitu kebele

Criteria



No of tubers/plant 45 30 45



Taste 45 30 45

Total 171 118 178

Rank 2 3 1

5. Location: Endamekoni woreda, Tigray

Field demonstrations on wheat, potato, and faba bean were conducted in the two kebeles (Tsibet and Emba-hasti) to introduce and evaluate new crop technologies and their respective production packages.

5.1 Wheat

The on-farm field demonstration of wheat was conducted with six farmers: 1 woman and 5 men. The varieties used in the demonstration were Danda’a and Digelu, which were released from the national research institute and Mekele-4, which was released from Tigray Agricultural Research Institute (TARI). The number of farmers, crop varieties, and the results of the mid- and end-season evaluations from Emba-hasti and Tsibet sites of Endamekoni woreda, Tigray region, are summarized below.


Average results of mid-season evaluation of wheat plots at Endamekoni

Sixteen farmers (4 women, 12 men) from both sites have participated in the field day to undertake mid-season evaluation at Tsibet. Moreover, DAs and Tabia administrators from both sites also participated, as well as local partners’ representatives. On the basis of the selection criteria agreed by farmers, Digelu, Danda’a, and Mekele-4 ranked first, second, and third (Table A2-37).

Table A2-37 Selection criteria and ranking of wheat varieties by combined groups at Tsibet kebele

Criteria


Digelu Danda’a Mekele-4 Local

Earliness 4 3 2 4


Tillering capacity 4 4 4 2

Plant height 3 3 4 2

Disease tolerant 4 4 4 2

Spick width 4 4 3 2

Number of seeds per plant 4 4 4 2

Management practice 4 4 4 2

Total 26 25 24 20

Rank 1 2 3 4

5.2 Potato

Belete, Gudene, and Gera were the three varieties tested in both AR sites with five farmers (one woman, four men).

Average results of mid-season evaluation of potato plots at Tsibet Kebele. Mid-season field evaluation was conducted in one of the two kebeles at Tsibet only. The evaluation was performed by 20 participant and nonparticipant farmers from the two sites (Emba-hasti and Tsibet kebeles). These farmers were grouped into men and women and did the evaluations separately.

The men group, based on the criteria they set themselves, ranked Gudene, Belete, and Gera first, second, and third (Table A2-38).

Compared to the men group, the women group selected fewer criteria but arrived at a similar overall ranking to that of the men, choosing Gudene as the best variety (Table A2-39).

Table A2-38 Selection criteria and ranking of potato varieties by the men group at Tsibet kebele

Criteria Weighted average points Belete Gudene Gera Local

Earliness 3 4 4 1 Number of stem per tuber 4 4 4 2 Disease tolerance 4 4 4 2 Uniformity 4 4 3 2 Tuber color/market demand 4 4 3 3 Roots (not growing beyond the given space) 3 3 3 1 Spacing 4 4 4 1 Leaf color 2 2 2 4 Total 28 29 27 16 Rank 2 1 3 4


Table A2-39 Selection criteria and ranking of potato varieties by the women group at Tsibet kebele

Factors


Belete Gudene Gera Local

Maturity 2 1 3 4

Resistance to disease 2 1 3 4

Number of tillers/stalks/tuber 2 1 3 3

Emergency 1 2 3 4

Resistance to hail damage 2 3 4 1

Overall rating 2 1 3 4

5.3 Faba bean

Formal field evaluations of faba bean were not conducted as the performance of the crop was not promising. It was noted during the discussion that the yield of faba bean is decreasing from year to year due to disease—mostly chocolate spot—hail damage, and water stress. During the current year the reduction of faba bean production seemed to have reached a maximum, with yields reduced by over 60% of what was expected. The faba bean demonstration fields also showed unsatisfactory results, though most were better than the farmers’ fields, possibly due to better management and row planting. Therefore it was agreed to repeat the demonstration with disease management practices both under irrigation and under meher rain-fed conditions.

Average yield estimates of the three demonstrated crops at Endamekoni woreda

The average yield data obtained from wheat and potato demonstration plots are given in Table A2-40. The wheat variety Mekele-4 (7.7 MT/ha) and the potato variety Belete (46.8 MT/ha) were found to be the highest yielders compared to the others.

Table A2-40 Average yield of grain/tuber and residue of wheat and potato at Endamekoni woreda

Crop Variety

Average (MT/ha)

Grain Residue

Wheat

Mekele-4 7.7 5.7

Digelu 6.0 6.2

Dendae 6.1 5.7

Local 4.0 4.1

Potato

Gudene 36.3 -

Belete 46.8 -

Gera 30.7 -

6. Construction of DLS

At farmers’ request, six DLS were constructed for all six farmers who participated in the demonstration of potato in each project woreda during the last main season.

7. Observations/Suggestions

Farmers’ feedback on field demonstrations in Basona Worana woreda includes:

• Among the three varieties tested, Gudene was affected by LB in almost all the three plots.

• The field day participant farmers appreciate the effort by the AR Project, particularly demonstration of new varieties that were not known in the area. Most of the farmers had been dependent only on two varieties (Gera and Gorebella) for a long time. They observed declining yields over time.


• Farmers who had the opportunity to look the demonstration plots expressed that the lesson will help them to adopt the technology next season.

• Farmers appreciated the experience they acquired and the confidence they built through field days and the variety selection exercise.

• Some farmers reported that they used to grow potato without fertilizer with low yields being the rule, but now they recognized the importance of applying fertilizer.

Feedback from Lemo and Sinana woredas:

• The project kebeles in both Lemo and Sinana woredas are generally new to such kind of interventions and hence the interest of farmers was found to be enormous. Some of the demonstrated wheat varieties have already come into the hands of the farmers in both locations suggesting the need for demonstrating new varieties.

• Farmers at Sinana are not interested in small plots.

• Rust was the common occurrence on wheat demonstration plots in both woredas and was more severe in Sinana. The varieties reacted differently and, despite the other qualities ,variety Dende’a was observed to be susceptible.

• Meher season potato production requires high chemical inputs as LB incidence is high. It was more serious at Lemo compared to Sinana, and particularly serious in variety Gera. Some farmers at Sinana woreda were able to produce potato with a single spray treatment.

• No major pest and disease problems were observed on faba bean at both locations. One faba bean participant farmer at Lemo woreda lost her field due to water logging as she did not take countermeasures on time.

• A big knowledge gap was observed concerning pest control in both locations. This needs to be addressed by training.

• Although farmers were happy with the results of row planting, they were not quite sure about the adoption of this technology due to time constraints.

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