Workshop on scaling up of acid soil management and demonstration of the newly released acid tolerant Sekela wheat variety in western Amhara region.

Adet Agricultural Research Center, one of the key research centers under Amhara Agricultural Research Institute (ARARI), held a workshop on scaling up of acid soil management and demonstration of newly released acid tolerant bread wheat variety called Sekela and other research findings released so far to alleviate the problem.

In his opening speech, Dr. Asmare Dejen, the Director General of ARARI, emphasized the urgency of addressing soil acidity which threatens the agricultural productivity in the acid affected areas of the region, particularly the then Gojam area, western Amhara. He called for an immediate and joint action from all stakeholders to implement research based solutions to combat this serious production bottleneck.

In addition, Mr. Atakiltie Abebe, Director of Adet Agricultural Research Center, announced that the center has played key role in mitigating soil acidity since a decade and half and recommended different mitigation measures including the newly released acid tolerant Sekela bread wheat variety. The Center Director underlined that the aim of the workshop was to jointly plan the scale up of this variety with zonal and district agricultural experts.

Moreover, Dr. Tadele Amare, Lead Soil fertility Researcher at Adet Agricultural Research Center, highlighted that 36.6% of the region’s arable land is affected by acidity at different levels.  

Furthermore, Dr. Tadele stated that, through the research efforts carried out so far, several key recommendations and technologies have been developed. These include row lime application, the development of acid-tolerant crop varieties, evaluation of the effects of agroforestry practices, applying compost and lime to faba bean, identification of fast-growing using green manuring plants, and combined application for phosphorus fertilizer and lime. He emphasized that translating these research outputs into practical solutions requires strong commitment and collaboration from all stakeholders at various levels.

Mr. Asmamaw Demil, Agricultural Research Extension Researcher at Adet Research Center, shared progress on technology promotion and training efforts across districts in Awi, Gojam, and South Gondar Zones.

The workshop concluded with the development of a joint action plan to expand the use of Sekela wheat variety in the upcoming production season.

Participants underscored the need for swift support from regional, national, and international partners to curb the spread of soil acidity and ensure sustainable agricultural development.