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Diriba Geleti

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Diriba Geleti is a senior researcher in the areas of agricultural sciences. Currently, he is serving as Deputy Director General of the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research. He is interested in the interface of agricultural and social sciences and extensively authored and co-authored in these areas.

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Papers by Diriba Geleti

ETHIOPIAN JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES

by Gashaw Tesfaye and Diriba Geleti

Ethiopian Journal of Agricultural Science, 2021

The fishery resource in Lake Koka is very important for food and nutrition security, and liveliho... more The fishery resource in Lake Koka is very important for food and nutrition security, and livelihoods of many riparian communities. Proper resource utilization is very essential to sustain the benefits of this natural capital for the present and future generations. So far little is known about the state of the fishery in Lake Koka. Therefore, the study aims at combining stock assessment of fishery target species of the Lake Koka with an economic analysis to find out if current exploitation levels are biologically and economically sustainable or need adjustment. Biomass dynamic models (equilibrium and non-equilibrium), bioeconomic model and the Thompson and Bell model were applied to estimate reference points related to Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY), Maximum Economic Yield (MEY) and their corresponding efforts (fMSY & fMEY). While the reference points estimated using the length-based Thompson and Bell predictive model were not significantly different from the non-equilibrium model, the former model provided a more flexible estimate than the other models. As none of the models tested suggested overfishing of the target resources, I conclude that the general state of the Lake Koka fishery is healthy, but see scope for improvement in terms of socioeconomic benefits if the current minimum length of capture were increased toward the length of capture at MEY.

Veterinary and Animal Science

Nanotechnology has a tremendous potential to revolutionize agriculture and livestock sector. It c... more Nanotechnology has a tremendous potential to revolutionize agriculture and livestock sector. It can provide new tools for molecular and cellular biology, biotechnology, veterinary physiology, animal genetics, reproduction etc. which will allow researchers to handle biological materials such as DNA, proteins or cells in minute quantities usually nano-liters or pico-liters. Nanotechnology tools like microfluidics, nanomaterials, bioanalytical nanosensors, etc. has the potential to solve many more puzzles related to animal health, production, reproduction and prevention and treatment of diseases. It is reasonable to presume that in the upcoming year’s nanotechnology research will reform the science and technology of the animal health and will help to boost up the livestock production. Nanotechnology will have a profound impact, but not in the immediate future as it is in the early stages of its development and needs to equip scientists, engineers and biologists to work at the cellular ...

Enhancing dairy productivity through best bet feeding interventions under smallholders in the central highlands of Ethiopia

Frontiers in Animal Science

Dairy cattle production is an integral part of smallholder farming systems in the central highlan... more Dairy cattle production is an integral part of smallholder farming systems in the central highlands of Ethiopia, but it is characterized by low milk productivity mainly due to nutritional constraints. This study assessed the comparative advantage of using improved forage-based feeding system over the traditional feeding practices on feed intake, milk yield and quality, and cost benefit analysis of crossbred dairy cows under smallholder farmers. The study was conducted at Welmera and Ejere districts on 12 farmers and two cows per farmer, and two dietary treatments were assigned to each cow randomly, and the study lasted 8 weeks. The treatments were: 1) intervention diet composed of oats-vetch mixture hay with concentrate supplementation at the rate of 0.5 kg/l of milk and 2) basal diet following farmers’ current feeding practices: crop residues and native hay, commonly soaked with local brewery residue (“Atela”) and water. The results showed that there was no difference in total dry ...

Revitalizing the Socio-Technical Transition of Ethiopian Agriculture

Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, 2020

Carcass and Non-carcass Yield Characteristics of Horro Sheep Supplemented with Two Lablab purpureus Cultivars and Concentrate Mixture to a Basal Diet of Natural grass hay

Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare, 2018

The study was carried out using twenty five male yearling Horro sheep with average body weight (B... more The study was carried out using twenty five male yearling Horro sheep with average body weight (BW) of 18.5 + 1.99 kg (Mean + SD) to determine the supplementary value of Beresa-55 and Gebisa-17 Lablab purpureus cultivars and concentrate mixture to a basal diets of natural pasture hay on carcass and non-carcass yield characteristics. All lambs were stratified in to five groups according to their initial body weight in randomized complete block design and were assigned to the dietary treatments randomly. Experimental lambs had free access to a basal diet (natural grass hay) but, supplemental feeds were restricted considering 1.5 and 2% of their body weight in dry matter (DM) basis which is adjusted following regular weight measurements. Thus, the treatments were; ad-lib natural grass hay + concentrate mixture at 2% BW (T1), ad-lib natural grass hay + Gebisa-17 cultivar at 1.5% BW (T2), ad-lib natural grass hay + Gebisa-17 cultivar at 2% BW (T3), ad-lib natural grass hay + Beresa-55 cu...

Supplementary value of two Lablab purpureus cultivars and concentrate mixture to natural grass hay basal diet based on feed intake, digestibility, growth performance and net return of Horro sheep

International Journal of Livestock Production, 2018

This study was undertaken with the aim to determine the supplementary value of Beresa-55 and Gebi... more This study was undertaken with the aim to determine the supplementary value of Beresa-55 and Gebisa-17 cultivars and concentrate mixture to a basal diet of natural pasture hay based on growth performance, feed utilization, digestibility and net return of Horro sheep. A total of twenty five yearlings Horro sheep were stratified into five groups based on initial body weight in randomized complete block design and animals were assigned to the dietary treatments randomly: (T1) (Control): ad-lib natural grass + concentrate mixture at 2% BW, (T2): ad-lib natural grass + Gebisa-17cultivar at 1.5% BW, (T3): ad-lib natural grass + Gebisa-17 cultivar at 2% BW, (T4): ad-lib natural grass + Beresa-55 cultivar at 1.5% BW and (T5): ad-lib natural grass + Beresa-55 cultivar at 2% BW. Basal hay DM intake was relatively higher in T2 and T4, while total DM and CP intake was higher in T1 and T5. Similarly, significantly higher digestibility of DM, CP and organic matter (OM) was obtained in T1 and T5. Dietary treatments also significantly (P<0.01) influenced the weight gain of lambs. Lambs in T1 and T5 had shown better (P>0.01) weight gain and enhanced comparable growth performance than in the other treatments. However, partial budget analysis indicates that, T5 is more profitable and thus, can be used as a priority supplement in feeding of Horro sheep.

Improving the Fodder Contribution of Maize-Based Farming Systems in Ethiopia: Approaches and Some Achievements

Meeting the Challenges …

Since its introduction, maize has gained significance and at present ranks first in total product... more

Ethiopian journal of agricultural sciences

The Irrigated Wheat Initiative of Ethiopia: a new paradigm emulating Asia's green revolution in Africa

The aim of this paper is to assess and document the experience of the successful irrigated wheat ... more The aim of this paper is to assess and document the experience of the successful irrigated wheat initiative in Ethiopia, identify potential limitations, and suggest alternative options that contribute towards the sustainability of the program. In the past decades, Ethiopia has initiated several projects to ensure food and wheat security but did not achieve the anticipated impact as planned. In 2019, however, the current government of Ethiopia put in place structural, economic, and sectorial reforms, with wheat chosen as a strategic commodity for food security, raw material for the agroindustry, import substitution that transits to export, and job creation along the value chain. With a total of 2.6 million ha of land cultivated under both rain-fed and irrigated systems, followed by a record amount of wheat harvest (8.2 million tons) in 2022, Ethiopia achieved a wheat self-sufficiency ratio of 100% and more than 1 million tons of surplus for export, indicating that the new irrigated wheat initiative of Ethiopia has been found transformational and is becoming a game changer. Moreover, modest case scenario projections revealed that Ethiopia will become a net exporter of wheat by 2023, indicating that the country is achieving not only wheat security but also championing the possibility of replicating Asia's Green Revolution in Africa. Yet, the sustainability of the current initiative relies on an efficient water management system, private sector engagement, sustainable input supply, well-established input and output marketing systems, and leadership commitment at all levels.

Restoration of grazing land to increase biomass production and improve soil properties in the Blue Nile basin: effects of infiltration trenches and Chloris Gayana reseeding

Renewable Agriculture and Food Systems, 2020

Degradation of crop and grazing lands is a pervasive problem that negatively impacts agricultural... more Degradation of crop and grazing lands is a pervasive problem that negatively impacts agricultural productivity and livelihoods of crop-livestock farmers in the Blue Nile basin of Ethiopia. Area enclosure together with a cut and carry livestock feeding system is often advocated as an approach for the regeneration of degraded grazing lands. This paper reports the results of a two-year farmer participatory study conducted to assess the effects of infiltration trenches (ITs) and Chloris gayana Kunth (Rhodes grass; cultivar Masaba; tetraploid; C4 grass species) reseeding on restoration of degraded grazing lands. A split plot design was used with IT as the main plot and C. gayana reseeding as a sub-plot on 28 private grazing plots under enclosure. The results showed that IT alone increased soil moisture content and prolonged the growing period. IT and C. gayana reseeding together significantly (P ≤ 0.05) increased herbage dry matter yield and improved soil chemical properties. The highest...

Enhancing dairy productivity through best bet feeding interventions under smallholders in the central highlands of Ethiopia

by Diriba Geleti and Mulisa Faji

yield and also fetch additional economic return for smallholder farmers compared to the existing ... more yield and also fetch additional economic return for smallholder farmers compared to the existing traditional practice. In general, this study demonstrates that adoption of improved forage production and feeding practices along with sufficient training on balanced ration formulation has been observed to increase dairy productivity and food security through provision of sustainable livelihood opportunity for smallholder farmers.

The performance of artificial insemination delivery system in Amhara, Oromia, SNNP and Tigray Regions of Ethiopia

International Journal of Livestock Production, 2020

The study was conducted in Amhara, Oromia, Southern Nations Nationalities and Peoples and Tigray ... more The study was conducted in Amhara, Oromia, Southern Nations Nationalities and Peoples and Tigray regions of the country to provide information on the performance of Artificial Insemination (AI) service delivery system, its seasonality and effectiveness. Semi-structured questionnaire was prepared to interview AI technicians (on their performance and related issues) and farmers (about the outcome of AI services). Data on field performance were received directly from AI technicians using a pre-restructured reporting format. A follow-up calving survey for AI services were provided to farmers was conducted in March 2019 to know the outcome of insemination services provided to farmers. Peak season falls from August to December when AI technicians on average perform 6.7 inseminations per day. January, February, June, and July were categorized as regular season with daily average insemination of 3.8. March, April, and May are off-season with an average of only 2.2 inseminations per day. The seasonal variation is mainly associated with availability of feed. Field level actual performance data showed significant difference (P<0.05) in the number of inseminations provided per AI technician per month among regions and between male and female AI technicians with an overall average insemination of 39.3. The highest AI services reported in the month of October. The Service per Conception (SPC) reported by AI technicians was not significantly different among regions (P>0.05) with mean SPC of 2.13. About 2.6 SPC obtained from a follow-up survey conducted with farmers who received AI service in a specified period. About 62% conception rate and 82% calving rates are obtained in this study.

Biomass Yield and Chemical Composition of Desho Grass (Pennisetum glaucifolium) Varieties in Central Highlands of Ethiopia

Desho (Pennisetum glaucifolium) grass is one of the indigenous cultivated multipurpose perennial ... more Desho (Pennisetum glaucifolium) grass is one of the indigenous cultivated multipurpose perennial forage crops grown for animal feed and soil conservation practices in the highlands of Ethiopia. The grass performs best at an altitude greater than 1700 m.a.s.l but its performance significantly varies with seasonal variations, stage of maturity, ecological conditions, and management practices. This study was conducted to evaluate desho grass varieties for their morphological characteristics, productivity, and chemical composition in the central highland of Ethiopia. The study was conducted at Holetta Agricultural Research Center during the main cropping seasons of 2013-2017 under rain fed conditions. Four varieties of desho grass, viz. Areka (DZF # 590), Kulumsa (DZF # 592), Kindu Kosha-1 (DZF # 591), and Kindu Kosha-2 (DZF # 589) were planted in randomized complete block design with three replications. Though the plant height of desho grass varieties was not significant at each production year and combined over years, it significantly differed among the production years. The number of nodes per plant and leaf to stem ratio varied significantly while the internode length was not significant among desho grass varieties. The combined over years analysis indicated that the leaf and stem dry matter yields varied significantly for desho grass varieties. Furthermore, the leaf and stem dry matter yields differed significantly among the production years. The total dry matter yield accumulated by desho grass varieties varied significantly and Areka variety accumulated the highest dry matter yield followed by Kulumsa, and Kindu Kosha-2 while Kindu Kosha-1 accumulated the least dry matter yield. The establishment year produced the lowest dry matter yield while the accumulation of dry matter yield increased for consecutive production years but the yield declined in the last production year. The highest dry matter yield was accumulated in the 2016 production year and it had 19.8 and 4.3% advantages over the 2014 and 2015 production years, respectively. The chemical composition, in-vitro dry matter digestibility and crude protein yield were not significant among varieties. Generally, the varieties have comparable performances for the most measured traits in the study area.

Copy editing and design: Kebrom Birhane Verification of Alfalfa (Medicago Sativa L.) Varieties for Low to Highland Areas of Ethiopia

The introduced six varieties o f alfalfa were tested against the two checks (hairy Peruvian and D... more The introduced six varieties o f alfalfa were tested against the two checks (hairy Peruvian and DZF-552) fo r biomass yield, quality attributes, disease reaction, and other agronomic traits across six environments (Holetta, Kulumsa, D/zeit, Melkassa, Werer, and Pawe Agricultural Research Centers) fo r two consecutive years (2013-2014). Based on varietal performance, three superior alfalfa varieties (alfalfa-1086, alfalfa-ML-99 and alfalfa-998) were selected by Holetta Agricultural Research Center and verified with recently released alfalfa variety (DZF-552) at Kulumsa, Melkassa, Werer, and Wondo-genet Agricultural Research Centers in the 2015 cropping season. The highest D M yield advantage (30%) was recorded fo r alfalfa-1086 followed by alfalfa-998 (27%) and alfalfa-ML-99 (23%) over hairy Peruvian variety. The highest crude protein yield advantage (109%) was obtained from alfalfa-1086 followed by alfalfa-ML-99 (89%) and alfalfa-998 (73%) over hairy Peruvian variety. Similarly, crude protein yield advantages o f 55, 41, and 28% were recorded fo r alfalfa-1086, alfalfa-ML-99, and alfalfa-998 varieties over recently released variety, respectively. The in-vitro dry matter digestibility yield advantages were 66 and 23%> fo r alfalfa-1086; 58 and 17% fo r alfalfa-ML-99 and 57 and 16% fo r alfalfa-998 over hairy Peruvian and recently released standard check variety, respectively. The result revealed that the candidate varieties had better ash, CP, and IVDMD but lower fiber con ten ts when compared to the check varieties. Due to better yield performance, quality attributes, disease reaction, and other agronomic traits, the two alfalfa varieties (alfalfa-1086 and alfalfa-ML-99) were approved by the National Variety Releasing Committee in 2016 to be cultivated in the low to high altitude areas ranging from 750-3000 masl which have an annual rainfall ranging from 850-1200 mm.

Verification of Supersonic Alfalfa (Medicago Sativa L.) Variety under Supplementary Irrigation under Diverse Environments in Ethiopia

Though Ethiopia is endowed with huge livestock resources in Africa, the contribution of livestock... more Though Ethiopia is endowed with huge livestock resources in Africa, the contribution of livestock to the national economy is below expected due to the low productivity of the livestock. Feed shortages in terms of both quantity and quality are one of the main factors contributing to the low productivity of livestock in the country. To alleviate the feed shortage problem, the generation of high-yielding and better quality forage crops is vital. Among the different forage crops recommended, alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is the most important perennial forage legume for livestock feed. Consequently this study was conducted to evaluate the introduced supersonic alfalfa variety for its adaptability, forage yield performance, chemical composition, and tolerance to major pests and diseases under diverse environmental conditions in Ethiopia. The supersonic alfalfa variety was evaluated with the standard check variety (alfalfa-1086) at Holetta, Debre-Zeit, Kulumsa, Wondogenet, Werer, and Pawe Agricultural Research Centers in 2018 under supplementary irrigation conditions. Based on its overall performances, the introduced variety was verified with the same standard check variety at Holetta, Debre-Zeit, Melkassa, Kulumsa, and Wondo-genet Agricultural Research Centers in the 2020 cropping season. The result indicated that plant height and dry matter yield varied significantly (P<0.001) between the varieties. The introduced supersonic alfalfa variety gave a higher plant height and dry matter yield than the standard check variety at each testing location and combined across locations. Moreover, the plant height and dry matter yield of alfalfa varieties varied significantly (P<0.05) across the test environments. The introduced supersonic alfalfa variety was consistently superior in dry matter yield than the standard check variety was implied that better stability under diverse environmental conditions. The introduced supersonic alfalfa variety had 12.9, 11.6, and 7.7% dry matter yield, digestible yield, and crude protein yield advantages over the standard check variety, respectively. The nutritive value of supersonic alfalfa and standard check variety was comparable in terms of ash, crude protein, in-vitro dry matter digestibility, fiber contents (NDF, ADF, and ADL), and the relative feed value. Due to better yield performance, quality attributes, pest and disease reaction, supersonic alfalfa variety was approved by the National Variety Releasing Committee in 2021 to be cultivated in the low to high altitude areas ranging from 750-2400 m.a.s.l which have an annual rainfall ranging from 800-1200 mm.

Geza Proceedings

Copy editing and design: Kebrom Birhane Verification of Alfalfa (Medicago Sativa L.) Varieties for Low to Highland Areas of Ethiopia

The introduced six varieties o f alfalfa were tested against the two checks (hairy Peruvian and D... more The introduced six varieties o f alfalfa were tested against the two checks (hairy Peruvian and DZF-552) fo r biomass yield, quality attributes, disease reaction, and other agronomic traits across six environments (Holetta, Kulumsa, D/zeit, Melkassa, Werer, and Pawe Agricultural Research Centers) fo r two consecutive years (2013-2014). Based on varietal performance, three superior alfalfa varieties (alfalfa-1086, alfalfa-ML-99 and alfalfa-998) were selected by Holetta Agricultural Research Center and verified with recently released alfalfa variety (DZF-552) at Kulumsa, Melkassa, Werer, and Wondo-genet Agricultural Research Centers in the 2015 cropping season. The highest D M yield advantage (30%) was recorded fo r alfalfa-1086 followed by alfalfa-998 (27%) and alfalfa-ML-99 (23%) over hairy Peruvian variety. The highest crude protein yield advantage (109%) was obtained from alfalfa-1086 followed by alfalfa-ML-99 (89%) and alfalfa-998 (73%) over hairy Peruvian variety. Similarly, crude protein yield advantages o f 55, 41, and 28% were recorded fo r alfalfa-1086, alfalfa-ML-99, and alfalfa-998 varieties over recently released variety, respectively. The in-vitro dry matter digestibility yield advantages were 66 and 23%> fo r alfalfa-1086; 58 and 17% fo r alfalfa-ML-99 and 57 and 16% fo r alfalfa-998 over hairy Peruvian and recently released standard check variety, respectively. The result revealed that the candidate varieties had better ash, CP, and IVDMD but lower fiber con ten ts when compared to the check varieties. Due to better yield performance, quality attributes, disease reaction, and other agronomic traits, the two alfalfa varieties (alfalfa-1086 and alfalfa-ML-99) were approved by the National Variety Releasing Committee in 2016 to be cultivated in the low to high altitude areas ranging from 750-3000 masl which have an annual rainfall ranging from 850-1200 mm.

Biomass Yield and Chemical Composition of Desho Grass (Pennisetum glaucifolium) Varieties in Central Highlands of Ethiopia

Desho (Pennisetum glaucifolium) grass is one of the indigenous cultivated multipurpose perennial ... more Desho (Pennisetum glaucifolium) grass is one of the indigenous cultivated multipurpose perennial forage crops grown for animal feed and soil conservation practices in the highlands of Ethiopia. The grass performs best at an altitude greater than 1700 m.a.s.l but its performance significantly varies with seasonal variations, stage of maturity, ecological conditions, and management practices. This study was conducted to evaluate desho grass varieties for their morphological characteristics, productivity, and chemical composition in the central highland of Ethiopia. The study was conducted at Holetta Agricultural Research Center during the main cropping seasons of 2013-2017 under rain fed conditions. Four varieties of desho grass, viz. Areka (DZF # 590), Kulumsa (DZF # 592), Kindu Kosha-1 (DZF # 591), and Kindu Kosha-2 (DZF # 589) were planted in randomized complete block design with three replications. Though the plant height of desho grass varieties was not significant at each production year and combined over years, it significantly differed among the production years. The number of nodes per plant and leaf to stem ratio varied significantly while the internode length was not significant among desho grass varieties. The combined over years analysis indicated that the leaf and stem dry matter yields varied significantly for desho grass varieties. Furthermore, the leaf and stem dry matter yields differed significantly among the production years. The total dry matter yield accumulated by desho grass varieties varied significantly and Areka variety accumulated the highest dry matter yield followed by Kulumsa, and Kindu Kosha-2 while Kindu Kosha-1 accumulated the least dry matter yield. The establishment year produced the lowest dry matter yield while the accumulation of dry matter yield increased for consecutive production years but the yield declined in the last production year. The highest dry matter yield was accumulated in the 2016 production year and it had 19.8 and 4.3% advantages over the 2014 and 2015 production years, respectively. The chemical composition, in-vitro dry matter digestibility and crude protein yield were not significant among varieties. Generally, the varieties have comparable performances for the most measured traits in the study area.

Verification of Supersonic Alfalfa (Medicago Sativa L.) Variety under Supplementary Irrigation under Diverse Environments in Ethiopia

Though Ethiopia is endowed with huge livestock resources in Africa, the contribution of livestock... more Though Ethiopia is endowed with huge livestock resources in Africa, the contribution of livestock to the national economy is below expected due to the low productivity of the livestock. Feed shortages in terms of both quantity and quality are one of the main factors contributing to the low productivity of livestock in the country. To alleviate the feed shortage problem, the generation of high-yielding and better quality forage crops is vital. Among the different forage crops recommended, alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is the most important perennial forage legume for livestock feed. Consequently this study was conducted to evaluate the introduced supersonic alfalfa variety for its adaptability, forage yield performance, chemical composition, and tolerance to major pests and diseases under diverse environmental conditions in Ethiopia. The supersonic alfalfa variety was evaluated with the standard check variety (alfalfa-1086) at Holetta, Debre-Zeit, Kulumsa, Wondogenet, Werer, and Pawe Agricultural Research Centers in 2018 under supplementary irrigation conditions. Based on its overall performances, the introduced variety was verified with the same standard check variety at Holetta, Debre-Zeit, Melkassa, Kulumsa, and Wondo-genet Agricultural Research Centers in the 2020 cropping season. The result indicated that plant height and dry matter yield varied significantly (P<0.001) between the varieties. The introduced supersonic alfalfa variety gave a higher plant height and dry matter yield than the standard check variety at each testing location and combined across locations. Moreover, the plant height and dry matter yield of alfalfa varieties varied significantly (P<0.05) across the test environments. The introduced supersonic alfalfa variety was consistently superior in dry matter yield than the standard check variety was implied that better stability under diverse environmental conditions. The introduced supersonic alfalfa variety had 12.9, 11.6, and 7.7% dry matter yield, digestible yield, and crude protein yield advantages over the standard check variety, respectively. The nutritive value of supersonic alfalfa and standard check variety was comparable in terms of ash, crude protein, in-vitro dry matter digestibility, fiber contents (NDF, ADF, and ADL), and the relative feed value. Due to better yield performance, quality attributes, pest and disease reaction, supersonic alfalfa variety was approved by the National Variety Releasing Committee in 2021 to be cultivated in the low to high altitude areas ranging from 750-2400 m.a.s.l which have an annual rainfall ranging from 800-1200 mm.

Geza Proceedings

ETHIOPIAN JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES

by Gashaw Tesfaye and Diriba Geleti

Ethiopian Journal of Agricultural Science, 2021

The fishery resource in Lake Koka is very important for food and nutrition security, and liveliho... more The fishery resource in Lake Koka is very important for food and nutrition security, and livelihoods of many riparian communities. Proper resource utilization is very essential to sustain the benefits of this natural capital for the present and future generations. So far little is known about the state of the fishery in Lake Koka. Therefore, the study aims at combining stock assessment of fishery target species of the Lake Koka with an economic analysis to find out if current exploitation levels are biologically and economically sustainable or need adjustment. Biomass dynamic models (equilibrium and non-equilibrium), bioeconomic model and the Thompson and Bell model were applied to estimate reference points related to Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY), Maximum Economic Yield (MEY) and their corresponding efforts (fMSY & fMEY). While the reference points estimated using the length-based Thompson and Bell predictive model were not significantly different from the non-equilibrium model, the former model provided a more flexible estimate than the other models. As none of the models tested suggested overfishing of the target resources, I conclude that the general state of the Lake Koka fishery is healthy, but see scope for improvement in terms of socioeconomic benefits if the current minimum length of capture were increased toward the length of capture at MEY.

Veterinary and Animal Science

Nanotechnology has a tremendous potential to revolutionize agriculture and livestock sector. It c... more Nanotechnology has a tremendous potential to revolutionize agriculture and livestock sector. It can provide new tools for molecular and cellular biology, biotechnology, veterinary physiology, animal genetics, reproduction etc. which will allow researchers to handle biological materials such as DNA, proteins or cells in minute quantities usually nano-liters or pico-liters. Nanotechnology tools like microfluidics, nanomaterials, bioanalytical nanosensors, etc. has the potential to solve many more puzzles related to animal health, production, reproduction and prevention and treatment of diseases. It is reasonable to presume that in the upcoming year’s nanotechnology research will reform the science and technology of the animal health and will help to boost up the livestock production. Nanotechnology will have a profound impact, but not in the immediate future as it is in the early stages of its development and needs to equip scientists, engineers and biologists to work at the cellular ...

Enhancing dairy productivity through best bet feeding interventions under smallholders in the central highlands of Ethiopia

Frontiers in Animal Science

Dairy cattle production is an integral part of smallholder farming systems in the central highlan... more Dairy cattle production is an integral part of smallholder farming systems in the central highlands of Ethiopia, but it is characterized by low milk productivity mainly due to nutritional constraints. This study assessed the comparative advantage of using improved forage-based feeding system over the traditional feeding practices on feed intake, milk yield and quality, and cost benefit analysis of crossbred dairy cows under smallholder farmers. The study was conducted at Welmera and Ejere districts on 12 farmers and two cows per farmer, and two dietary treatments were assigned to each cow randomly, and the study lasted 8 weeks. The treatments were: 1) intervention diet composed of oats-vetch mixture hay with concentrate supplementation at the rate of 0.5 kg/l of milk and 2) basal diet following farmers’ current feeding practices: crop residues and native hay, commonly soaked with local brewery residue (“Atela”) and water. The results showed that there was no difference in total dry ...

Revitalizing the Socio-Technical Transition of Ethiopian Agriculture

Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, 2020

Carcass and Non-carcass Yield Characteristics of Horro Sheep Supplemented with Two Lablab purpureus Cultivars and Concentrate Mixture to a Basal Diet of Natural grass hay

Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare, 2018

The study was carried out using twenty five male yearling Horro sheep with average body weight (B... more The study was carried out using twenty five male yearling Horro sheep with average body weight (BW) of 18.5 + 1.99 kg (Mean + SD) to determine the supplementary value of Beresa-55 and Gebisa-17 Lablab purpureus cultivars and concentrate mixture to a basal diets of natural pasture hay on carcass and non-carcass yield characteristics. All lambs were stratified in to five groups according to their initial body weight in randomized complete block design and were assigned to the dietary treatments randomly. Experimental lambs had free access to a basal diet (natural grass hay) but, supplemental feeds were restricted considering 1.5 and 2% of their body weight in dry matter (DM) basis which is adjusted following regular weight measurements. Thus, the treatments were; ad-lib natural grass hay + concentrate mixture at 2% BW (T1), ad-lib natural grass hay + Gebisa-17 cultivar at 1.5% BW (T2), ad-lib natural grass hay + Gebisa-17 cultivar at 2% BW (T3), ad-lib natural grass hay + Beresa-55 cu...

Supplementary value of two Lablab purpureus cultivars and concentrate mixture to natural grass hay basal diet based on feed intake, digestibility, growth performance and net return of Horro sheep

International Journal of Livestock Production, 2018

This study was undertaken with the aim to determine the supplementary value of Beresa-55 and Gebi... more This study was undertaken with the aim to determine the supplementary value of Beresa-55 and Gebisa-17 cultivars and concentrate mixture to a basal diet of natural pasture hay based on growth performance, feed utilization, digestibility and net return of Horro sheep. A total of twenty five yearlings Horro sheep were stratified into five groups based on initial body weight in randomized complete block design and animals were assigned to the dietary treatments randomly: (T1) (Control): ad-lib natural grass + concentrate mixture at 2% BW, (T2): ad-lib natural grass + Gebisa-17cultivar at 1.5% BW, (T3): ad-lib natural grass + Gebisa-17 cultivar at 2% BW, (T4): ad-lib natural grass + Beresa-55 cultivar at 1.5% BW and (T5): ad-lib natural grass + Beresa-55 cultivar at 2% BW. Basal hay DM intake was relatively higher in T2 and T4, while total DM and CP intake was higher in T1 and T5. Similarly, significantly higher digestibility of DM, CP and organic matter (OM) was obtained in T1 and T5. Dietary treatments also significantly (P<0.01) influenced the weight gain of lambs. Lambs in T1 and T5 had shown better (P>0.01) weight gain and enhanced comparable growth performance than in the other treatments. However, partial budget analysis indicates that, T5 is more profitable and thus, can be used as a priority supplement in feeding of Horro sheep.

Improving the Fodder Contribution of Maize-Based Farming Systems in Ethiopia: Approaches and Some Achievements

Meeting the Challenges …

Since its introduction, maize has gained significance and at present ranks first in total product... more

Ethiopian journal of agricultural sciences

The Irrigated Wheat Initiative of Ethiopia: a new paradigm emulating Asia's green revolution in Africa

The aim of this paper is to assess and document the experience of the successful irrigated wheat ... more The aim of this paper is to assess and document the experience of the successful irrigated wheat initiative in Ethiopia, identify potential limitations, and suggest alternative options that contribute towards the sustainability of the program. In the past decades, Ethiopia has initiated several projects to ensure food and wheat security but did not achieve the anticipated impact as planned. In 2019, however, the current government of Ethiopia put in place structural, economic, and sectorial reforms, with wheat chosen as a strategic commodity for food security, raw material for the agroindustry, import substitution that transits to export, and job creation along the value chain. With a total of 2.6 million ha of land cultivated under both rain-fed and irrigated systems, followed by a record amount of wheat harvest (8.2 million tons) in 2022, Ethiopia achieved a wheat self-sufficiency ratio of 100% and more than 1 million tons of surplus for export, indicating that the new irrigated wheat initiative of Ethiopia has been found transformational and is becoming a game changer. Moreover, modest case scenario projections revealed that Ethiopia will become a net exporter of wheat by 2023, indicating that the country is achieving not only wheat security but also championing the possibility of replicating Asia's Green Revolution in Africa. Yet, the sustainability of the current initiative relies on an efficient water management system, private sector engagement, sustainable input supply, well-established input and output marketing systems, and leadership commitment at all levels.

Restoration of grazing land to increase biomass production and improve soil properties in the Blue Nile basin: effects of infiltration trenches and Chloris Gayana reseeding

Renewable Agriculture and Food Systems, 2020

Degradation of crop and grazing lands is a pervasive problem that negatively impacts agricultural... more Degradation of crop and grazing lands is a pervasive problem that negatively impacts agricultural productivity and livelihoods of crop-livestock farmers in the Blue Nile basin of Ethiopia. Area enclosure together with a cut and carry livestock feeding system is often advocated as an approach for the regeneration of degraded grazing lands. This paper reports the results of a two-year farmer participatory study conducted to assess the effects of infiltration trenches (ITs) and Chloris gayana Kunth (Rhodes grass; cultivar Masaba; tetraploid; C4 grass species) reseeding on restoration of degraded grazing lands. A split plot design was used with IT as the main plot and C. gayana reseeding as a sub-plot on 28 private grazing plots under enclosure. The results showed that IT alone increased soil moisture content and prolonged the growing period. IT and C. gayana reseeding together significantly (P ≤ 0.05) increased herbage dry matter yield and improved soil chemical properties. The highest...

Enhancing dairy productivity through best bet feeding interventions under smallholders in the central highlands of Ethiopia

by Diriba Geleti and Mulisa Faji

yield and also fetch additional economic return for smallholder farmers compared to the existing ... more yield and also fetch additional economic return for smallholder farmers compared to the existing traditional practice. In general, this study demonstrates that adoption of improved forage production and feeding practices along with sufficient training on balanced ration formulation has been observed to increase dairy productivity and food security through provision of sustainable livelihood opportunity for smallholder farmers.

The performance of artificial insemination delivery system in Amhara, Oromia, SNNP and Tigray Regions of Ethiopia

International Journal of Livestock Production, 2020

The study was conducted in Amhara, Oromia, Southern Nations Nationalities and Peoples and Tigray ... more The study was conducted in Amhara, Oromia, Southern Nations Nationalities and Peoples and Tigray regions of the country to provide information on the performance of Artificial Insemination (AI) service delivery system, its seasonality and effectiveness. Semi-structured questionnaire was prepared to interview AI technicians (on their performance and related issues) and farmers (about the outcome of AI services). Data on field performance were received directly from AI technicians using a pre-restructured reporting format. A follow-up calving survey for AI services were provided to farmers was conducted in March 2019 to know the outcome of insemination services provided to farmers. Peak season falls from August to December when AI technicians on average perform 6.7 inseminations per day. January, February, June, and July were categorized as regular season with daily average insemination of 3.8. March, April, and May are off-season with an average of only 2.2 inseminations per day. The seasonal variation is mainly associated with availability of feed. Field level actual performance data showed significant difference (P<0.05) in the number of inseminations provided per AI technician per month among regions and between male and female AI technicians with an overall average insemination of 39.3. The highest AI services reported in the month of October. The Service per Conception (SPC) reported by AI technicians was not significantly different among regions (P>0.05) with mean SPC of 2.13. About 2.6 SPC obtained from a follow-up survey conducted with farmers who received AI service in a specified period. About 62% conception rate and 82% calving rates are obtained in this study.

Biomass Yield and Chemical Composition of Desho Grass (Pennisetum glaucifolium) Varieties in Central Highlands of Ethiopia

Desho (Pennisetum glaucifolium) grass is one of the indigenous cultivated multipurpose perennial ... more Desho (Pennisetum glaucifolium) grass is one of the indigenous cultivated multipurpose perennial forage crops grown for animal feed and soil conservation practices in the highlands of Ethiopia. The grass performs best at an altitude greater than 1700 m.a.s.l but its performance significantly varies with seasonal variations, stage of maturity, ecological conditions, and management practices. This study was conducted to evaluate desho grass varieties for their morphological characteristics, productivity, and chemical composition in the central highland of Ethiopia. The study was conducted at Holetta Agricultural Research Center during the main cropping seasons of 2013-2017 under rain fed conditions. Four varieties of desho grass, viz. Areka (DZF # 590), Kulumsa (DZF # 592), Kindu Kosha-1 (DZF # 591), and Kindu Kosha-2 (DZF # 589) were planted in randomized complete block design with three replications. Though the plant height of desho grass varieties was not significant at each production year and combined over years, it significantly differed among the production years. The number of nodes per plant and leaf to stem ratio varied significantly while the internode length was not significant among desho grass varieties. The combined over years analysis indicated that the leaf and stem dry matter yields varied significantly for desho grass varieties. Furthermore, the leaf and stem dry matter yields differed significantly among the production years. The total dry matter yield accumulated by desho grass varieties varied significantly and Areka variety accumulated the highest dry matter yield followed by Kulumsa, and Kindu Kosha-2 while Kindu Kosha-1 accumulated the least dry matter yield. The establishment year produced the lowest dry matter yield while the accumulation of dry matter yield increased for consecutive production years but the yield declined in the last production year. The highest dry matter yield was accumulated in the 2016 production year and it had 19.8 and 4.3% advantages over the 2014 and 2015 production years, respectively. The chemical composition, in-vitro dry matter digestibility and crude protein yield were not significant among varieties. Generally, the varieties have comparable performances for the most measured traits in the study area.

Copy editing and design: Kebrom Birhane Verification of Alfalfa (Medicago Sativa L.) Varieties for Low to Highland Areas of Ethiopia

The introduced six varieties o f alfalfa were tested against the two checks (hairy Peruvian and D... more The introduced six varieties o f alfalfa were tested against the two checks (hairy Peruvian and DZF-552) fo r biomass yield, quality attributes, disease reaction, and other agronomic traits across six environments (Holetta, Kulumsa, D/zeit, Melkassa, Werer, and Pawe Agricultural Research Centers) fo r two consecutive years (2013-2014). Based on varietal performance, three superior alfalfa varieties (alfalfa-1086, alfalfa-ML-99 and alfalfa-998) were selected by Holetta Agricultural Research Center and verified with recently released alfalfa variety (DZF-552) at Kulumsa, Melkassa, Werer, and Wondo-genet Agricultural Research Centers in the 2015 cropping season. The highest D M yield advantage (30%) was recorded fo r alfalfa-1086 followed by alfalfa-998 (27%) and alfalfa-ML-99 (23%) over hairy Peruvian variety. The highest crude protein yield advantage (109%) was obtained from alfalfa-1086 followed by alfalfa-ML-99 (89%) and alfalfa-998 (73%) over hairy Peruvian variety. Similarly, crude protein yield advantages o f 55, 41, and 28% were recorded fo r alfalfa-1086, alfalfa-ML-99, and alfalfa-998 varieties over recently released variety, respectively. The in-vitro dry matter digestibility yield advantages were 66 and 23%> fo r alfalfa-1086; 58 and 17% fo r alfalfa-ML-99 and 57 and 16% fo r alfalfa-998 over hairy Peruvian and recently released standard check variety, respectively. The result revealed that the candidate varieties had better ash, CP, and IVDMD but lower fiber con ten ts when compared to the check varieties. Due to better yield performance, quality attributes, disease reaction, and other agronomic traits, the two alfalfa varieties (alfalfa-1086 and alfalfa-ML-99) were approved by the National Variety Releasing Committee in 2016 to be cultivated in the low to high altitude areas ranging from 750-3000 masl which have an annual rainfall ranging from 850-1200 mm.

Verification of Supersonic Alfalfa (Medicago Sativa L.) Variety under Supplementary Irrigation under Diverse Environments in Ethiopia

Though Ethiopia is endowed with huge livestock resources in Africa, the contribution of livestock... more Though Ethiopia is endowed with huge livestock resources in Africa, the contribution of livestock to the national economy is below expected due to the low productivity of the livestock. Feed shortages in terms of both quantity and quality are one of the main factors contributing to the low productivity of livestock in the country. To alleviate the feed shortage problem, the generation of high-yielding and better quality forage crops is vital. Among the different forage crops recommended, alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is the most important perennial forage legume for livestock feed. Consequently this study was conducted to evaluate the introduced supersonic alfalfa variety for its adaptability, forage yield performance, chemical composition, and tolerance to major pests and diseases under diverse environmental conditions in Ethiopia. The supersonic alfalfa variety was evaluated with the standard check variety (alfalfa-1086) at Holetta, Debre-Zeit, Kulumsa, Wondogenet, Werer, and Pawe Agricultural Research Centers in 2018 under supplementary irrigation conditions. Based on its overall performances, the introduced variety was verified with the same standard check variety at Holetta, Debre-Zeit, Melkassa, Kulumsa, and Wondo-genet Agricultural Research Centers in the 2020 cropping season. The result indicated that plant height and dry matter yield varied significantly (P<0.001) between the varieties. The introduced supersonic alfalfa variety gave a higher plant height and dry matter yield than the standard check variety at each testing location and combined across locations. Moreover, the plant height and dry matter yield of alfalfa varieties varied significantly (P<0.05) across the test environments. The introduced supersonic alfalfa variety was consistently superior in dry matter yield than the standard check variety was implied that better stability under diverse environmental conditions. The introduced supersonic alfalfa variety had 12.9, 11.6, and 7.7% dry matter yield, digestible yield, and crude protein yield advantages over the standard check variety, respectively. The nutritive value of supersonic alfalfa and standard check variety was comparable in terms of ash, crude protein, in-vitro dry matter digestibility, fiber contents (NDF, ADF, and ADL), and the relative feed value. Due to better yield performance, quality attributes, pest and disease reaction, supersonic alfalfa variety was approved by the National Variety Releasing Committee in 2021 to be cultivated in the low to high altitude areas ranging from 750-2400 m.a.s.l which have an annual rainfall ranging from 800-1200 mm.

Geza Proceedings

Copy editing and design: Kebrom Birhane Verification of Alfalfa (Medicago Sativa L.) Varieties for Low to Highland Areas of Ethiopia

The introduced six varieties o f alfalfa were tested against the two checks (hairy Peruvian and D... more The introduced six varieties o f alfalfa were tested against the two checks (hairy Peruvian and DZF-552) fo r biomass yield, quality attributes, disease reaction, and other agronomic traits across six environments (Holetta, Kulumsa, D/zeit, Melkassa, Werer, and Pawe Agricultural Research Centers) fo r two consecutive years (2013-2014). Based on varietal performance, three superior alfalfa varieties (alfalfa-1086, alfalfa-ML-99 and alfalfa-998) were selected by Holetta Agricultural Research Center and verified with recently released alfalfa variety (DZF-552) at Kulumsa, Melkassa, Werer, and Wondo-genet Agricultural Research Centers in the 2015 cropping season. The highest D M yield advantage (30%) was recorded fo r alfalfa-1086 followed by alfalfa-998 (27%) and alfalfa-ML-99 (23%) over hairy Peruvian variety. The highest crude protein yield advantage (109%) was obtained from alfalfa-1086 followed by alfalfa-ML-99 (89%) and alfalfa-998 (73%) over hairy Peruvian variety. Similarly, crude protein yield advantages o f 55, 41, and 28% were recorded fo r alfalfa-1086, alfalfa-ML-99, and alfalfa-998 varieties over recently released variety, respectively. The in-vitro dry matter digestibility yield advantages were 66 and 23%> fo r alfalfa-1086; 58 and 17% fo r alfalfa-ML-99 and 57 and 16% fo r alfalfa-998 over hairy Peruvian and recently released standard check variety, respectively. The result revealed that the candidate varieties had better ash, CP, and IVDMD but lower fiber con ten ts when compared to the check varieties. Due to better yield performance, quality attributes, disease reaction, and other agronomic traits, the two alfalfa varieties (alfalfa-1086 and alfalfa-ML-99) were approved by the National Variety Releasing Committee in 2016 to be cultivated in the low to high altitude areas ranging from 750-3000 masl which have an annual rainfall ranging from 850-1200 mm.

Biomass Yield and Chemical Composition of Desho Grass (Pennisetum glaucifolium) Varieties in Central Highlands of Ethiopia

Desho (Pennisetum glaucifolium) grass is one of the indigenous cultivated multipurpose perennial ... more Desho (Pennisetum glaucifolium) grass is one of the indigenous cultivated multipurpose perennial forage crops grown for animal feed and soil conservation practices in the highlands of Ethiopia. The grass performs best at an altitude greater than 1700 m.a.s.l but its performance significantly varies with seasonal variations, stage of maturity, ecological conditions, and management practices. This study was conducted to evaluate desho grass varieties for their morphological characteristics, productivity, and chemical composition in the central highland of Ethiopia. The study was conducted at Holetta Agricultural Research Center during the main cropping seasons of 2013-2017 under rain fed conditions. Four varieties of desho grass, viz. Areka (DZF # 590), Kulumsa (DZF # 592), Kindu Kosha-1 (DZF # 591), and Kindu Kosha-2 (DZF # 589) were planted in randomized complete block design with three replications. Though the plant height of desho grass varieties was not significant at each production year and combined over years, it significantly differed among the production years. The number of nodes per plant and leaf to stem ratio varied significantly while the internode length was not significant among desho grass varieties. The combined over years analysis indicated that the leaf and stem dry matter yields varied significantly for desho grass varieties. Furthermore, the leaf and stem dry matter yields differed significantly among the production years. The total dry matter yield accumulated by desho grass varieties varied significantly and Areka variety accumulated the highest dry matter yield followed by Kulumsa, and Kindu Kosha-2 while Kindu Kosha-1 accumulated the least dry matter yield. The establishment year produced the lowest dry matter yield while the accumulation of dry matter yield increased for consecutive production years but the yield declined in the last production year. The highest dry matter yield was accumulated in the 2016 production year and it had 19.8 and 4.3% advantages over the 2014 and 2015 production years, respectively. The chemical composition, in-vitro dry matter digestibility and crude protein yield were not significant among varieties. Generally, the varieties have comparable performances for the most measured traits in the study area.

Verification of Supersonic Alfalfa (Medicago Sativa L.) Variety under Supplementary Irrigation under Diverse Environments in Ethiopia

Though Ethiopia is endowed with huge livestock resources in Africa, the contribution of livestock... more Though Ethiopia is endowed with huge livestock resources in Africa, the contribution of livestock to the national economy is below expected due to the low productivity of the livestock. Feed shortages in terms of both quantity and quality are one of the main factors contributing to the low productivity of livestock in the country. To alleviate the feed shortage problem, the generation of high-yielding and better quality forage crops is vital. Among the different forage crops recommended, alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is the most important perennial forage legume for livestock feed. Consequently this study was conducted to evaluate the introduced supersonic alfalfa variety for its adaptability, forage yield performance, chemical composition, and tolerance to major pests and diseases under diverse environmental conditions in Ethiopia. The supersonic alfalfa variety was evaluated with the standard check variety (alfalfa-1086) at Holetta, Debre-Zeit, Kulumsa, Wondogenet, Werer, and Pawe Agricultural Research Centers in 2018 under supplementary irrigation conditions. Based on its overall performances, the introduced variety was verified with the same standard check variety at Holetta, Debre-Zeit, Melkassa, Kulumsa, and Wondo-genet Agricultural Research Centers in the 2020 cropping season. The result indicated that plant height and dry matter yield varied significantly (P<0.001) between the varieties. The introduced supersonic alfalfa variety gave a higher plant height and dry matter yield than the standard check variety at each testing location and combined across locations. Moreover, the plant height and dry matter yield of alfalfa varieties varied significantly (P<0.05) across the test environments. The introduced supersonic alfalfa variety was consistently superior in dry matter yield than the standard check variety was implied that better stability under diverse environmental conditions. The introduced supersonic alfalfa variety had 12.9, 11.6, and 7.7% dry matter yield, digestible yield, and crude protein yield advantages over the standard check variety, respectively. The nutritive value of supersonic alfalfa and standard check variety was comparable in terms of ash, crude protein, in-vitro dry matter digestibility, fiber contents (NDF, ADF, and ADL), and the relative feed value. Due to better yield performance, quality attributes, pest and disease reaction, supersonic alfalfa variety was approved by the National Variety Releasing Committee in 2021 to be cultivated in the low to high altitude areas ranging from 750-2400 m.a.s.l which have an annual rainfall ranging from 800-1200 mm.

Geza Proceedings