Ethiopia’s EIAR releases improved seeds to lift crop yields
New seed varieties are raising farm output across key crops, with strong gains seen in maize, wheat, and potatoes.
ETHIOPIA – The Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR) has released improved seeds that are already lifting crop yields across the country.
Prof. Nigussie Dechassa, Director General of the institute, said the new seed varieties play a key role in raising farm output and supporting food supply. He spoke in an interview with the Ethiopian News Agency.
“These improved seeds have been instrumental in increasing yields per hectare,” he said.
The institute runs research on major crops such as maize, wheat, barley, potato, and coffee. The aim is to produce seed varieties that give higher yields and perform well under local conditions.
Prof. Nigussie pointed to maize as a clear case. Farmers who use the improved hybrid seeds now harvest between 80 and 90 quintals per hectare. In the past, they harvested about 45 quintals.
Wheat has also seen strong growth. The country now uses ten improved wheat varieties developed by the institute. Average yields have reached 36 quintals per hectare, with some farms hitting up to 80 quintals. Twenty years ago, farmers harvested only 14 to 15 quintals per hectare.
Barley production has also improved. The institute released twelve hybrid barley varieties that now meet local demand for malt. This has helped reduce imports.
Potato farming has also improved with the release of 45 new seed varieties. Average yields have grown from 120 quintals per hectare to about 230 quintals.
Prof. Nigussie said potatoes remain a key food crop in the country. “Potatoes, like other staple crops, are vital for Ethiopia’s food sovereignty,” he noted.
The latest seed releases form part of wider efforts to support farmers and improve food supply. The institute continues to test and release new varieties that match local needs and climate conditions.
Officials say these efforts will help farmers produce more food on the same land while also reducing the need for imports.
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