Alo Abdi, is a farmer in the Goro Woreda, Bale Zone of Oromia State. Many farmers like him make a living by producing wheat in the plots of land they own. Though the entire area is well known for wheat productivity, they carry out their farming through the traditional mode of production that they fail to earn better.
Recently, however, Madda Walabu University (MWU), one of the public higher education institutions operating in their locality, is implementing an agricultural productivity improvement research and support programs for the local farmers. This has heralded a new and better chapter of life for farmers including Alo who are now able to harvest far more crops than the past.
“Previously, we were only able to achieve a yield of 30 quintals per hectare from our farm plots. But now, with the assistance and oversight of the University, we have reached an impressive level of harvesting 43 quintals per hectare.”
He emphasized that MWU’s unwavering commitment to supporting farmers and revolutionizing agricultural practices has not only boosted production and productivity but has also improved the lives of numerous families in the region. These promising results have renewed hope for a thriving agricultural sector and a prosperous future for the cluster farming community.
MWU President Ahmed Kalil(PhD) stated that the university has active involvement in various fields for the benefit of the community. Not only is the university actively engaged in its efforts in agriculture, but it is also actively engaged in promoting tourism, biodiversity conservation, and public health. By diversifying its contributions, MWU aims to create a holistic impact on the community and foster sustainable development.
The university’s commitment to becoming a center of excellence in farming is evident through its involvement in research symposiums, capacity building training, monitoring, and technical support, he said.
It also goes in line with the national level program of the federal government to improve wheat productivity which is an integral part of the effort to become food self-sufficient.
The government of Ethiopia has implemented various initiatives to promote the wheat production and productivity of the country, contributing significantly to its food security and improving its overall agricultural productivity. These initiatives include the provision of improved seed varieties, access to credit facilities for farmers, and the development of agricultural extension services to disseminate knowledge and best practices in wheat farming.
Despite these efforts, Ethiopia still faces challenges in its wheat productivity. Limited access to modern farming technologies, such as mechanization and irrigation, poses a significant constraint on increasing productivity. Additionally, fluctuations in weather patterns, including droughts and erratic rainfall, can adversely affect wheat yields and pose risks to farmers’ livelihoods.
To address these challenges, the Ethiopian government, in collaboration with international partners, has been working on expanding irrigation infrastructure and promoting the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices. These efforts aim to enhance the resilience of wheat farming systems and improve productivity in the face of climate change.
Through various initiatives and ongoing investments, Ethiopia continues to strive towards increasing wheat production, ensuring food security, and promoting sustainable agricultural development.
Located in Bale Robe town, MWU had recently hosted a national research symposium focused on enhancing wheat productivity to ensure food security in the country. Through the university’s commitment to addressing wheat productivity improvement through collaboration with Chemtex PLC and various research institutions, implementing cluster wheat farming methods, and providing improved seeds, fertilizers, and agricultural inputs to local farmers, MWU aims to play a pivotal role in securing the nation’s food supply.
Bezabih Wendimu (PhD), Vice President of WMU, told the Ethiopian Press Agency that the university has collaborated with various research institutions to implement cluster wheat farming methods and provide necessary resources to nearby districts and local farmers.
He stated that the university’s support to farmers covers the entire agricultural process, from preparation of farm plots to harvesting yields. The increase in productivity can be attributed to several factors, including the provision of high-quality seeds and fertilizers as well as the university’s commitment to equipping farmers with the best available resources. As a result, local farmers have achieved an impressive yield of 40 to 55 quintals per hectare of land during the production season, he noted.
The collaboration efforts ensure that farmers have access to improved seeds, fertilizers, and other agricultural inputs, contributing to enhanced productivity and food security. In the current cropping season alone, MWU has supported farmers organized in clusters for wheat production on over 140 hectares of farmland in seven districts across Bale, West Arsi, and East Bale zones, Bezabih said.
He stated that MWU recognizes the significance of providing professional assistance to farmers to optimize their agricultural practices, such as crop disease management, pesticide usage, and fertilizer application. By equipping farmers with knowledge and expertise in these areas, MWU empowers them to effectively manage crop diseases, use pesticides judiciously, and apply fertilizers in a manner that maximizes productivity and minimizes environmental impact. This support contributes to improved agricultural practices and increased wheat productivity among farmers.
“We have been able to enhance our production and productivity through the university’s involvement in cluster farming.” Says Habte Wolde another wheat farmer in Sinana Woreda of Bale Zone.
“The farmers in the region have witnessed remarkable improvements in both their wheat yields and their overall livelihoods as a result of the university’s agricultural equipment and expertise,” he mentioned.
Habte remarked that in addition to providing resources, MWU has conducted comprehensive training programs aimed at enhancing farmers’ skills. These programs cover various aspects, such as effective fertilizer and crop utilization, financial management, and seed control.
In addition, farmers have eagerly embraced these learning opportunities, recognizing their importance in empowering them to overcome challenges and maximize their potential, he said.
He mentioned that during the previous and current harvest seasons, farmers faced difficulties with weeds and others. However, through collaborative efforts with Chemtex Chemical Supply PLC and other partners, an effective solution was found. The application of a chemical called Palas Super proved successful in combating the weed, ensuring healthier crop yields for the farmers, he added.
The National Research Symposium on Wheat Productivity which MWU hosted recently was a valuable opportunity to identify possibilities and overcome challenges faced by the agricultural sector. Experts and stakeholders gathered to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and explore innovative solutions to enhance wheat productivity and ensure food security.
Through implementing cluster wheat farming methods and providing improved seeds, fertilizers, and agricultural inputs, MWU is empowering farmers and contributing to increased productivity. The university’s involvement in community development and its role as a center of excellence in farming further signify its dedication to sustainable agricultural practices.
As MWU continues to prioritize research, capacity building, and technological advancements, it is poised to play a significant role in transforming Ethiopia’s agricultural sector and ensuring long-term food security for the nation, Ahmed said.
MWU’s attempt to conserve agriculture involves practices such as maintaining soil cover through crop residue management and crop rotation. These practices help reduce soil erosion, improve soil health and moisture retention, and enhance carbon sequestration, he noted.
Agro forestry integrates trees with crops or livestock, providing multiple benefits such as improved soil fertility, biodiversity conservation, and carbon sequestration. Planting trees on farms can provide shade, windbreaks, and fodder while also contributing to climate change mitigation and adaptation.
He said that the university is working to implement efficient water management practices, such as drip irrigation, precision irrigation, and rainwater harvesting that can help optimize water use and reduce water stress on crops. Proper water management techniques enhance crop productivity, conserve water resources, and make farming more resilient to droughts and erratic rainfall patterns.
He further stated that MWU Promoting crop diversification encourages farmers to cultivate a variety of crops, including drought-tolerant and pest-resistant varieties. Diversification reduces the risk of crop failure due to climate-related factors and enhances food security by ensuring a range of nutritious crops are available.
In addition to showcasing MWU’s active involvement in a number of areas, including agriculture, tourism, biodiversity, and societal health, President Ahmed Kalil pledged that the university would keep providing capacity-building training, technical support, and oversight to help farmers address their inquiries and meet their needs for agricultural inputs and equipment.
BY FIKADU BELAY
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD WEDNESDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2024
