Zerihun Nigussie

Factors Affecting Small-Scale Farmers’ Land Allocation and Tree Density Decisions in an Acacia decurrens-Based taungya System in Fagita Lekoma District, North-Western Ethiopia

Abstract The development of woodlots as an additional source of livelihood and as a land management option for small-scale farmers is a challenging issue in the cereal-based subsistence farming systems of north-western Ethiopia. There is a need to understand why and which factors determine the decisions of small-scale farmers to grow short-rotation woodlots on their land. Data used in this study were collected from a survey of 200 randomly selected households in the region. A Tobit regression model was used to determine predictor variables for farmers’ decisions to allocate land to planting Acacia decurrens (J.C. Wendl.) Willd. and at what density trees are planted on the respective plots. The most important motivations for planting A. decurrens were income, soil fertility management, and soil and water conservation. Having a male head of household, long distance to markets and plots being on marginal land, among other factors, increased the allocation of land to A. decurrens woodlots. Having a male head of household, access to credit and plots being on marginal land, among other factors, increased tree planting density. Age had a negative effect on both allocation of land to woodlots and tree density, whereas farm size had an inverted U-shaped relationship with both decisions. These results suggest that wider expansion of A. decurrens-based plantation systems could be achieved through improving extension, credit access and road infrastructure to connect small-scale farmers to markets and finance.

Sesbania sesban (L.) Merrill: Potential uses of an underutilized multipurpose tree in Ethiopia

Sesbania sesban (L.) Merrill is the most productive multipurpose tree widely distributed in tropics and subtropics; and usually planted by smallholder farmers mostly for its fodder and soil improvement values. The objective of the present study was to review the various aspects (with emphasis on its importance) of S. sesban and generate comprehensive technical information for scholars who wish to study the plant in detail. Different parts of S. sesban is reputed for various purposes such as weed control, phytoremediation, anti-inflammation and antioxidant effect, abortion and antifertility agent, antimicrobial activity, firewood source, livestock feed and pasture improvement, green manure, mosquito repellant, live support and Schistosoma control. Having these and other multiple uses, S. sesban can contribute to sustainable livelihoods by improving household food, nutrition and health security.

Smallholders’ apple-based agroforestry systems in the north-western highlands of Ethiopia

Apple-based agroforestry system could significantly improve the livelihoods of small-scale farmers in the drought-prone areas of north-western Ethiopia. This study, based on 200 households’ farm interviews, aims at providing information and analysis on how to improve such systems and therefore foster apple orchard systems in Ethiopia. It examines factors influencing farmers’ decisions on land allocation to apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) orchards and the respective number of apple trees planted using fractional probit and negative binomial regression models. Results indicate that farmers, among other characteristics, with education, received training, being experienced, participating in off-farm activities, having less labor force in the household but more financial means to invest in orchards, are more likely to establish apple orchards. Insect pests and diseases, theft, frost damage and water stress, poor agronomic practices and market restrictions are identified as constraints to apple production systems. The study has important policy implications so as to create more awareness through education, build capacity through the provision of short-term training on apple orchard management practices, introduce apple specific production packages and extension support services, and support off-farm activities to employ extra labor and generate cash to invest in fruit orchards that will help resource-poor orchard farmers.

Reasons for Acceptance of Improved Potato Varieties by Smallholder Producers

ABSTARCT It may be that improved cultivars can increase yield. This project was undertaken to determine factors affecting adoption of new potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) cultivars over those currently in use. A logistic regression procedure was used to examine factors influencing adoption of improved potato varieties by smallholder farmers. Data were collected with questionnaires administered to 158 respondents. The logit model initially contained 13 factors, of which seven had significant effects on adoption of improved potato varieties. The estimated chi-square value (χ2 = 31.91) indicated that the data fit the model reasonably well. Partial effects analysis indicated that, compared to those who do not use fertilizer, those who do are younger; have more extension contacts and access to credit, and likely plan to allocate more land to growing potato. Those who belong to an agricultural cooperative are more likely to adopt improved potato varieties. Social, economic, and institutional factors have implications for stakeholders who might adopt or extend use of improved potato varieties.