Pre-extension demonstration of improved tef (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.)) variety in mid and low land areas of eastern Amhara, Ethiopia

Tef production in the Amhara region and the specific study area faces limitations due to the utilization of low-yielding and disease-resistant tef varieties by farmers. To address this constraint and promote wider adoption of improved tef technologies, a demonstration initiative was undertaken in the major tef growing mid and lowland areas of eastern Amhara. The focus of the demonstration was on the improved Mena tef variety, showcased alongside the local variety under different production practices. The demonstration encompassed 18 farmers’ fields and 5 farmer training centers, with comprehensive data collection throughout the stages. Parameters such as yield, economic feasibility, farmers’ perceptions, and preferences were systematically gathered and subjected to analysis using ANOVA, partial budget analysis, and pairwise ranking. The ANOVA results revealed no statistically significant differences in yield and yield-related parameters among treatments. However, numerical differences were noted across all districts. In terms of economic viability, the partial budget analysis indicated that the improved Mena variety, coupled with the recommended production package, has a relative net benefit compared to the local variety with improved management practices in Habru and Kalu districts. Whereas, implementing improved and local varieties with improved management practices proved not feasible in the Kobo. Notably, the partial budget analysis demonstrated positive returns after covering input costs, even though the marginal rate of return was below the minimum. Furthermore, farmers’ preference ranking highly weighted for improved Mena variety in Kobo and Kalu districts by their important selection criteria such as seed color, panicle length, disease resistance, earliness, grain productivity, plant height, tiller number, seed size, straw palatability, and marketability. Generally, the variety possesses superior seed size and color suitable for both market and consumption, resistance to yellow rust disease, palatable straw for animal feed, and the ability to maintain green morphology even at the maturity stage. In light of these findings, the study recommends scaling out of the improved Mena variety with the recommended production package in Kobo and Kalu districts to create further demand. This strategic dissemination aims to address the challenges faced in tef production, offering a pathway for farmers to enhance productivity and economic returns in these specific locations.