Barentu, 11 October 2012 – Agriculture experts in Gash-Barka region indicated that the introduction of select crops has made significant input in boosting harvest. They made the statement at a meeting they conducted with a number of farmers from Barentu sub-zone, during which the importance of agricultural research was thoroughly explained.
Mr. Atewebirhan Yosef, head of the Agriculture Ministry’s branch in Barentu sub-zone, indicated that select sorghum, millet and oil crops acknowledged by the agricultural research center in the sub-zone have ensured impressive outcome. He further called on the beneficiaries of such crops to demonstrate adherence to instructions by experts. Stating that lack of crop diversity used to be the cause for deterioration of soil content in the area, Mr. Medhanie Yihdego from the regional branch office said that the research venture is part of the programs aimed at overcoming the quandary.
Mr. Kesete Gebreyohanes, head of agronomy department in the regional branch office, on his part pointed out that the select crops are being distributed to the sub-zones of Laelai-Gash and Shambuko, and that research conducted on a sunflower variety at Ali-Gidir research site has shown promising outcome.
The participants of the meeting voiced readiness to improve harvest on the basis of resort to select crops.
