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Ethiopian farmers increased
yields of teff, sorghum and wheat on
demonstration plots under FAO's Special
Programme in the areas of Wolfa, Habru and
Gonder Zuria.
Over 500 farmers working in mixed
subsistence farming took part during the
1995 main cropping season. Reports
indicate that average yields per hectare
were up by over 100 percent in most cases,
though in Habru attacks of shoot fly
affected the teff crop.
Yield increases were due to the use of
improved seed varieties, fertilizers,
pesticide and improved cropping practices.
Inputs were bought on credit and advice
and training was also on hand. The scheme
will also include
irrigation
demonstration and integrated pest
management.
For farmers growing sorghum it was
estimated that the extra costs of
fertilizer and pesticide inputs notched up
EthBirr 352 per hectare. Gains came to
EthBirr 1120, though additional labour
costs were not fully estimated. Wheat and
teff crops yielded similar returns.
Many farmers interviewed said the
technology is affordable. Here much will
depend on open lines of credit and the
continued availability of quality seeds
and fertilizer on the market. This
planting season, many farmers have
continued with the new agricultural
practices.
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