Wheat production in Ethiopia plays a crucial role in the Ethiopian agriculture landscape, contributing significantly to the country’s food security and economic development. With its diverse agro ecological landscape and vast agricultural potential, Ethiopia has been striving to enhance its wheat production to meet the growing demands of its population.
However, the wheat production sector in Ethiopia faces numerous obstacles that impact its productivity and potential. Crop diseases, weeds, seasonal droughts, and soil acidity are among the key challenges that farmers encounter, leading to decreased yields and compromised quality. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that combines scientific research, technological advancements, and government support to enhance wheat production practices.
In an offer to tackle the challenges faced by wheat production in Ethiopia, the Kulumsa Agricultural Research Center at Arsi-Bale zone is undertaking problem solving research and studies. Negash Geleta (PhD) who is Coordinator of National Wheat Research Program with the Center says crop diseases, weeds, seasonal droughts, and soil acidity are among the key obstacles faced by wheat farmers.
However, the Coordinator who is a prominent researcher in the field and has been diligently studying various factors that contribute to the decrease in wheat yields and production, he remains hopeful that by enhancing agricultural output and productivity, the Ethiopian government can ensure food security.
He told the Ethiopian Press Agency that the research institution has been focusing on identifying wheat varieties that are resistant to diseases and droughts. Out of the numerous wheat varieties currently under study, he promotes selecting those that display robust resilience against these challenges.
This research initiative is part of the institute’s commitment to providing farmers with access to high-quality wheat seeds, which have benefits for pasta and bread production. He also stated that the initiatives are underway to improve soil health and fertility, optimize irrigation techniques, and strengthen post-production processes to ensure better wheat yields.
In nature, wheat crops needed a colder climate zone for booming, but wheat is currently being cultivated in Ethiopia’s lowlands through summer irrigation.
In the highland areas of the country, the level of soil acidity is very high; it is estimated that about 40% of the total arable land in Ethiopia is affected by soil acidity. Of this land area, about 27.7% is moderately acidic, and about 13.2% is strongly acidic. The problem of soil acidity is very severe in the southwestern parts of Ethiopia, which receive high rainfall, according to Ministry of Agriculture data.
Negash emphasized the significance of acidity in the soil for the country, saying that applying lime to the soil and improving the yield of other cash crops, in addition to wheat, would be imperative in ensuring long-term food security. So the Ethiopian government will strive on lime manufacture and fulfill the need for lime among the farmers, he underlined.
On the other hand, the government’s introduction of irrigation projects is expanding to significantly boost wheat yields. Negash stated that, by providing a reliable water source for wheat cultivation, these projects mitigate the impact of seasonal droughts, ensuring a consistent supply of water throughout the growing season. These initiatives involve the construction of irrigation canals, reservoirs and dam systems to capture and store water for controlled distribution to farmlands.
The availability of water through irrigation systems offers several advantages for wheat production. For instance, it allows for a more efficient use of water resources, reducing waste and increasing overall water use efficiency.
This is especially crucial in regions where water scarcity is a significant concern, and it facilitates better crop management by enabling farmers to control the request for water, ensuring that crops receive an adequate and timely water supply. It helps to optimize growth, prevent water stress, and minimize the risk of yield losses due to water shortages, he noted.
Negash further stated that, the summary of irrigation projects reduces the dependence on rainfall as the primary water source. It is particularly important in areas where rainfall patterns are erratic and unreliable. By providing a stable and controlled water supply, irrigation systems offer farmers greater control over their agricultural practices and reduce the vulnerability of wheat production to climatic fluctuations, he said.
He mentioned that, by ensuring that the crops receive sufficient water throughout their growth stages, farmers can expect higher productivity, improved quality, and reduced losses due to drought-induced stress. Additionally, the controlled water supply allows for better nutrient uptake by the plants, leading to healthier crops and enhanced yields.
He also stated the benefits of organizing farmers into clusters and providing them with wise use of modern equipment in cooperation. Through working together and utilizing shared machinery, farmers can maximize their productivity. The government’s delivery of modern equipment further aids in efficient production practices, contributing to improved agricultural outcomes, he added.
As Negash remarked, to explore innovative solutions for improving wheat production, the Kulumsa Research Institution’s work serves as a beacon of hope for Ethiopian farmers. With his research and the government’s commitment to agricultural advancement, the nation is poised to enhance its wheat productivity, ensure food security, and contribute to the well-being of its citizens.
Collaboration efforts are underway to support and promote these initiatives, with a focus on advancing agricultural output and empowering farmers. Through investing in research and development, encouraging collaboration, and providing necessary resources, Ethiopia aims to strengthen its position as a key player in wheat production in the country, not only in Ethiopia but also across the world.
The Ethiopian government is actively supporting and promoting initiatives that enhance wheat production in the country, identifying the significance of agriculture and the benefits of ensuring food security, and overcoming the challenges of boosting wheat cultivation.
The Ethiopian government facilitates access to agricultural inputs for farmers, such as quality seeds, fertilizers, and some of the necessary machinery for wheat production. However, government support for farmers is not enough; hence he stressed that the government should provide financial services, like loans, subsidies, and grants, to help farmers obtain pesticides and other chemicals, as well as various trainings for farmers. By easing financial constraints, the government enables farmers to invest in their operations and enhance productivity.
He further stated that, the government will provide training programs and capacity-building initiatives for farmers. These programs equip farmers with the necessary skills and knowledge to implement modern agricultural techniques, use advanced machinery, and adopt sustainable farming practices. Through enhancing farmers capabilities to boost the productivity of wheat production, ensuring food security across the country.
BY FIKADU BELAY
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD TUESDAY 19 MARCH 2024
