Participatory Evaluation and Promotion of Improved Bread Wheat Technology in the Dry lands of Wag-lasta, Ethiopia: Challenges and Prospects

Abstract

This study was conducted to evaluate the comparative advantage, farmers’ reference and stakeholders’ linkage in bread wheat technology, involving 100 farmers in Wag-lasta, Ethiopia. Both quantitative and qualitative research approaches were used to compare the improved technology with the local practice. Cost-benefit ratio, descriptive and inferential statistics were employed for quantitative analysis. Farmers’ technology preference and stakeholders’ linkage were assessed using Likert scale and SWOT analysis. The improved technology had 116.7% yield advantage over the local practice and was economically profitable. Nonetheless, the farmers were describing that full package application was tough due to lack of practical training, package complication and labor shortage in descending order. Except resistance to pest, most farmers had positive attitude towards identified preference parameters. Strengths and weaknesses of stakeholders in the promotion were recognized matching with opportunities and threats. Therefore, the improved technology is suggested for wider diffusion in the study area. Providing extension and training, on top of identifying viable sources and multiplying cooperatives to the technology would enhance the farmers’ uptake.