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

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 farmers.

What the Training Covered

Participants engaged in interactive sessions, theoretical discussions, and hands-on demonstrations to deepen their understanding of PPT and its practical applications. The key objectives of the training included:

• Strengthening technical expertise in implementing and promoting Push-Pull technology.
• Enhancing the capacity of agricultural officers to provide technical support and advisory services to farmers.
• Facilitating knowledge exchange on best practices, challenges, and opportunities for scaling up PPT.
• Introducing the UPSCALE Push-Pull App as a tool for improving efficiency and monitoring of PPT implementation.
• Promoting sustainable agricultural practices that boost food security and climate resilience in sorghum-based farming systems.

The training was met with highly positive feedback from participants, who expressed appreciation for its comprehensive approach to combining theoretical knowledge with practical applications. Key takeaways from the training included:

• Enhanced Technical Knowledge – Experts gained confidence in implementing PPT and addressing major sorghum production challenges such as Striga weed and stemborers.
• Digital Solutions for Agriculture – The introduction of the UPSCALE Push-Pull App was particularly well-received, as participants recognized its potential to provide real-time technical support.
• Strengthened Advisory Services – Agricultural extension experts felt better equipped to guide farmers on the adoption of PPT.
• Knowledge Sharing and Networking – The training provided a valuable platform for participants to exchange experiences, discuss challenges, and learn from best practices across different regions.

Following the training, Dawachefa Woreda announced an ambitious plan to implement Push-Pull Technology on 570 farmers’ fields in the coming year. This large-scale adoption marks a significant step forward in improving sorghum productivity and promoting sustainable farming practices.

Additionally, Woreda officials have requested further support to conduct technical training for farmers in four additional kebeles outside the UPSCALE project area. Expanding PPT education and training would allow more farmers to gain firsthand experience and access the benefits of this transformative technology.

What’s Next?

The success of this training highlights the growing momentum behind Push-Pull technology as a key tool for sustainable agriculture. Moving forward, continued collaboration, resource mobilization, and technical support will be essential to expand its adoption. UPSCALE remains committed to working with local stakeholders to ensure more farmers can benefit from innovative, science-backed solutions that enhance productivity and resilience.