Addis Ababa:The Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR) has reported significant improvements in the yields of teff, wheat, and other crops. These advancements are attributed to research and the development of high-yielding varieties aimed at enhancing food security and boosting agricultural production.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Fekadu Gurmu, Director of Crop Research at EIAR, highlighted that improved teff varieties from the institute can yield over 30 quintals per hectare, compared to less than 10 quintals per hectare from traditional varieties. He emphasized the role of EIAR in developing most of the wheat varieties promoted through government initiatives, which are advancing national wheat production and efforts toward self-sufficiency.
The institute has played a critical role in the expansion of irrigated wheat production. Fekadu noted that summer irrigated wheat cultivation was initially tested on a small scale at EIAR's Werer Agricultural Research Center before gaining government support for broader adoption nationwide. EIAR has released around 150 bread wheat varieties and 50 durum wheat varieties, increasing the availability of improved seeds to farmers.
In maize production, research has raised the national average yield to 42 to 43 quintals per hectare, with hybrid maize trials and farm demonstrations recording yields as high as 130 quintals per hectare. These results demonstrate the potential of improved varieties and farming practices in boosting production.
Beyond staple crops, EIAR's research supports import substitution and domestic industries, such as the development of high-quality malt barley varieties for local breweries, reducing reliance on imports. In rice production, new varieties are tailored for Injera preparation, with ongoing research to develop types better suited for boiling and other preferences.
EIAR has also introduced nearly 50 coffee varieties to producers, enhancing productivity and competitiveness in Ethiopia's coffee sector. Its research extends to high-value crops like sesame, haricot beans, and soybeans, significant for export earnings, edible oil production, and animal feed.
Fekadu stated that the institute aligns its research with national development strategies, including wheat self-sufficiency, oilseed production expansion, and the Green Legacy Initiative. Established nearly six decades ago, EIAR operates more than 20 agricultural research centers across Ethiopia, supporting efforts to modernize agriculture, increase farmers' productivity, and promote sustainable economic growth.
