News and Media

Stay connected with us as we share our knowledge and experience in Push-Pull technology across the East Africa region – Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda. We are dedicated to keeping you updated on our journey in the field of sustainable agriculture.

Strengthening One Health in Agriculture: UPSCALE’s Team on the icipe One Health Workshop

March 3, 2025

The International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) hosted a pioneering One Health workshop in Nairobi, Kenya, on February 27th and 28th. The workshop brought together key stakeholders, researchers, and policymakers to explore the integration of One Health principles in agriculture. The event focused on strengthening human, animal, and environmental health connections within food and farming systems. The UPSCALE project team joined efforts to support the realization of this workshop, contributing valuable insights on sustainable agriculture and the role of nature-based solutions in promoting One Health. Representatives from UPSCALE, including Leon (Food for the Hungry, Rwanda), Fredah Maina (KALRO), Beatrice, Stella Okello (NALRO, Uganda), Detebo Andangachew (IDS, Ethiopia), and Alice Murage (KALRO), actively engaged in discussions on integrating One Health principles with push-pull technology (PPT) and other sustainable farming practices. Why One Health Matters for Agriculture The One Health approach recognizes the deep interconnection between human, animal, and environmental well-being. In agriculture, this translates into reducing harmful chemical inputs, promoting biodiversity, and adopting sustainable pest and weed management solutions. Push-pull technology, promoted by UPSCALE, aligns closely with One Health principles by offering an eco-friendly alternative to conventional pest control. It reduces reliance on chemical pesticides, improves soil fertility, and

Read More »

Scaling Up Push-Pull Technology in Sorghum Production: UPSCALE Capacity-Building Training in Ethiopia

February 27, 2025

On February 16, 2025, the UPSCALE project partner Andaragachew Detebo from ISD, in collaboration with Wollo University, organized a Capacity Building Training for Scaling Up Push-Pull Technology in Sorghum Production at Lihul Mekonen Hotel, Kombolcha, Ethiopia. The training brought together 31 government officials and agricultural specialists from zonal, woreda, and kebele offices to strengthen their technical expertise in Push-Pull Technology (PPT)—a sustainable solution for combating Striga weed and stemborers, improving soil fertility, and increasing Sorghum productivity. Bringing Innovation to Sorghum Farming Sorghum is a staple crop for many smallholder farmers in Ethiopia, but its production is often challenged by pests, weeds, and declining soil fertility. PPT is a nature-based solution that repels pests, improves soil conditions, and enhances overall crop yields. This training aimed to equip Development Agents (DAs), Crop Production and Protection Experts, and Extension Experts with the skills and knowledge to implement and scale up PPT in their respective regions. A key highlight of the training was the introduction of the UPSCALE Push-Pull App, a digital tool designed to support real-time monitoring, technical guidance, and field-specific recommendations for PPT implementation. By integrating digital solutions into extension services, agricultural experts can now provide more effective and data-driven support to

Read More »

How Push-Pull Technology Is Changing Farming—Insights from the National Workshop in Ethiopia

February 11, 2025

On December 21, 2024, farmers, agricultural experts, policymakers, and other key players gathered at the Swiss Inn Nexus Hotel in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, for the National Workshop for Experience Sharing on Promoting Ecological Organic Agriculture (EOA) and Agroecology for Smallholder Farmers. The event was more than just a meeting—it was a chance for people from all walks of life to share experiences, learn from each other, and find new ways to make farming more productive, sustainable, and profitable. The UPSCALE project team, including Dr Amanuel Tamiru, Mr. Jimmy Pittchar, and Mr. Andargachew Detebo, joined forces with key stakeholders like the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) and the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIRA). They focused on how we can support smallholder farmers in adopting new farming practices that not only improve yields but also protect the environment and secure livelihoods. Why Workshop Mattered for Farmers The goal of the workshop was simple: to help farmers do better. Better yields, better soil, better incomes, and better lives. The event focused on: Sharing real farming successes: Farmers, researchers, and NGOs talked about what’s working in the field—practical techniques that can be applied on any farm. Solving real challenges: We listened to farmers’ concerns

Read More »

Latest News

Check out

Stay up to date on the latest UPSCALE news and achievements throughout the newsletter. Check back regularly or sign up to receive news, views, and updates directly to your inbox.

News Letter

Check out

Explore Media Kit for online materials of UPSCALE project – you can download posters, brochures, infographics and watch out video material to learn more about activities and Push-Pull technology.

Media Kit

Check out

Join us for a variety of UPSCALE events happening around the world, where you can learn from experts, network with peers, and share your ideas.

Events

Check out