A new project aimed at improving the living conditions of Ethiopian farmers was launched
The University of Gondar, with financial support from RISA (Research and Innovation Systems in Africa) and UKAID (UKAID: from the British People), involved stakeholders in “expanding new technologies from agricultural research to empower farmers (especially female farmers). An opening and familiarization program was held on, February 14, 2023, to mark the launch of the “World Grows Project” to improve the living conditions of farmers with economic limitations and disabled farmers.
The president of the University of Gondar, Dr. Asrat Atsedeweyn, the vice president of Research and Technology Transfer, Dr. Binyam Chaklu, the head of the Amhara region’s women and social affairs office, Mrs. Birtukan Sisay, senior leaders of the university, and federal, state, zone, district and Kebele officials took part in the event.
In his welcome speech, Dr. Binyam recalled that the University of Gondar is carrying out many studies and research activities in collaboration with international institutions. And the president of UoG, Dr. Asrat, opened the program with remarks and shared that since its establishment, the university has been fulfilling its institutional responsibilities in health, education, agriculture and other social, economic and national issues. He added that the university has been increasing the research culture of the institution by increasing the participation of local and foreign partners. On behalf of the institution, the President expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the university’s instructors and researchers who are striving to improve the living conditions of their communities by winning international research projects.
General information about the project was provided by Mr. Kefyale Enyew who is the project manager. In addition to this Dr. Fisha Zegye from the Ethiopian Agricultural Research Institute presented on how to update and improve agricultural technologies and related issues and finally Mr. Daniel Nguse the director of the project spoke on the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders. Moreover, a discussion was held with the participants based on the articles presented. Better recommendations and future directions were also set.
The project has been planned for one year and the kebeles around Gondar, which have been identified by research, are Sandeba and Mentara. The information obtained indicates that this project, which will be implemented, is intended to improve the living conditions of a total of 150 farmers. From the discussion, the development of bee resources supported by studies and research, the production of avocados and the production of rice are the areas of work that the farmers are mainly engaged in with the support of the project.
