The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that is has taken place. George Bernard Shaw The main job of scientists is to do research; starting from observing situations, asking questions, conducting research, analyzing data, making conclusions, publishing results, and suggesting further research, and the cycle starts again, and again. The desirable outlets for the results of scientific research are peer-reviewed journals as they are deemed to be the most credible source, for fellow scientists. The scientists also disseminate their results at conferences, which are also for … [Read more...]
Drivers of Change for Smallholder Farmers in Ethiopia
In the western part of Ethiopia, implementation of Humidtropics' research agenda is well underway in the midland and highland areas of Jeldu District. The International Water Management Institute (IWMI), in partnership with the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) and the International Potato Center (CIP), has been working to help farmers improve agricultural productivity, natural resource management and tackle challenges such as high level of degradation, serious erosion and loss of soil fertility, as well as unstable land use and market failure. Since early 2014, IWMI has … [Read more...]
Gender and Technology at the Crossroads in Ethiopia
When farmer Bultu Etefa was told that she must look after her cattle and the family while maintaining natural resources, she did something interesting: she joined the training delivered at wereda level on fodder production. Now she is among a group of smallholder farmers behind various efforts under Humidtropics to improve livestock feeds. She said, “Fodder is useful to the women who control over the use and sell of milk products in the community. It brings significant changes in both quality and quantity of milk. I sell butter myself and use the money for whatever purpose on my … [Read more...]