Study of supply system of barley seed to farmers in North and Central Ethiopia

Abstract EN

A survey was conducted during the 1998-99 growing season in the North Western and East Central parts of Ethiopia to study the supply system of barley seed.

Four zones were covered by the survey which are South Gondar, North Gondar, Arsi and Bale.A total of 300 seed samples were collected, as will as a questionnaire was filled for every sample at the same time.

Seeds were largely supplied informally and most of the farmers used their own crop as seeds.

No case was recorded from the official formal seed sources.

The central part of the country especially the Arsi zone was found to contribute most of the improved cultivars seed samples.

Comparisons between seed sources were less valid due to the large differences between sample sizes.

Moreover, significant differences were revealed only in very few cases.

It was concluded from the study that proper marketing strategy of the formal seed supply system seemed necessary.

The informal system requires some support and should be strengthened.

It is also recommended that suitable cultivars should be introduced.

Proper farmer to farmer seed exchanges and introduction of appropriate technology in the processes of seed cleaning, treatment and storage are also recommended to upgrade the seed supply system.