Field Day: Showcasing Research Developments on Demonstration Plots
As the UPSCALE project started back in 2020, besides national and regional meetings, field days were the main point for bringing together farmers, researchers, and stakeholders to share knowledge and showcase innovative practices. The Field Day, organized by the UPSCALE project and colleague Andargachew Detebo, held on 16th November 2024 in Dawachefa Wereda, Bedeno Kebele, aimed to showcase the latest advancements in sustainable agricultural practices, with a particular focus on the Push-Pull Diversification research. This event demonstrated the impact of Push-Pull technology in increasing productivity in maize and sorghum fields, as well as gathering valuable insights and feedback for improving implementation and outreach across the region. The Push-Pull Diversification Research The UPSCALE partner, icipe, has made significant progress in Ethiopia since the Push-Pull technology (PPT) introduction five years ago. With over 8,000 farmers now utilizing the method, the technology has proven to be highly effective in increasing crop yields, boosting farmers’ incomes, and promoting environmentally sustainable practices. The highlight of the field day was therefore on the Push-Pull Diversification strategy, which ranked as one of the most unique approaches to increasing productivity while leaning on sustainability. The PPT requires the intercropping of certain plants like Napier grass, and Desmodium amongst
