Improving Nutrition in Ethiopia through Plant Breeding and Soil Management

Transcription

1 2013 Improving Nutrition in Ethiopia through Plant Breeding and Soil Management (IDRC Project Number /2) Research Institutions: Hawassa University University of Saskatchewan Report Type: 6-12 Months Interim Interim Technical Report Report Period: Sept., March, 2013 Project Team University of Saskatchewan Hawassa University Dr. Carol Henry Dr. Sheleme Beyene Dr. Bunyamin Tar an Dr. Walelign Worku Dr. Fran Walley Dr. Endalkachew Wolde-meskel Dr. Gord Zello Dr. Kabebe Abegaz Dr. Susan Whiting Dr. Gete Tsegaye Dr. JoAnn Jaffe Dr. Negatu Regassa Dr. Amy Kaler Dr. Towordros Ameda Dr. R.T. (Bob) Tyler Ms. Getenesh Berhanu Dr. Mike Grevers Dr. Anthony Kimaro Dr. Atul Nayyar (project manager) By: University of Saskatchewan Hawassa University

2 Table of Contents Page 1.0 Executive Summary Research Problem Progress towards Milestones Project staff recruited (Milestone 1.3) Project implementation strategies completed (Milestone 1.4) A gender framework developed (Milestone 1.5) Baseline survey completed (Milestone 1.6) Literature review (Milestone 3.1) Soil characterization for nutrient deficiencies (Milestone 3.2) First year field studies completed on the effect of Zn fertilization and intercropping on nutrient uptake and soil quality (Milestone 3.3) First year field studies on the genetic variation of pulses under different environments (Milestone 3.4) Studies on local practices and knowledge of agro-food systems completed (Milestone 3.5) Studies on biofortification practices completed (Milestone 3.6) First year field days held at study sites (Milestone 3.7) Synthesis of Research Results Establish the relationship of the socio-economic and health status of household communities to food security Micronutrient levels existing in pulses and non-legume staple crops Soil characterization- macro- and micronutrient levels and possible deficiencies existing in the soils of study area Genetic variations of currently available varieties and germ plasm of chickpeas and haricot beans evaluated Nutrition intervention mechanisms develop and tested using various approaches to improve household food and nutrition security Healthy ecologies for food security strategies Project implementation and management Problems and Challenges Recommendations 23 Annex Annex1 AFS on Monitoring Expected Outcomes 24 Annex 2 Team composition 28 Annex 3 Performance measurement framework 31 Annex 4 Outputstable 35 Annex 5 Graduate student information 37 Annex 6 Initial soil analysis for Zn availability 39 2

3 Figures Figure 1 Project conceptual framework 40 Figure 2 Nutrition outcome pathway 41 Figure 3 Illustration of the whole process from site selection to harvesting for Taba 42 3

4 1.0 Executive Summary This reporting period summarizes progress on milestones and objectives for the CIFSRF project Improving Nutrition in Ethiopia through Plant Breeding and Soil Management. During this period the project team, including graduate students has undertaken approximately 28 studies along with extension and training activities as it seeks to address the project s five key objectives. These projects are on path to address also the project s long-term goal to reduce micronutrient deficiencies and improving malnutrition and food security among rural population in Ethiopia, especially among women and children. Progress towards meeting these is presented in sections 3 and 4, and annex in the report. Addressing each of the five Key Objectives are two- four studies, which although separate in the approach taken (target population, gender, health) will address the particular objective. Objective 1-Establish the relationship of socioeconomic, gender, age, labour, and health status to food security including pulses. Three studies assessing relationship of socioeconomic, gender, age, labour and health status of household communities to food security are underway. The initial results from one of the studies indicate that female headed households own much lesser land, livestock and other important strategic resources compared to male headed households. This in turn, has been observed to influence women s involvement in pulse production. The summary of the results are mentioned in section 4 and the details of the results are reported in Appendix I. Parallel to this, two additional studies addressing local practices and knowledge of agro-food systems in household communities are in progress. Overall, the primary and secondary data from all the five studies will help to shape current and future interventions. Objective 2- Food processing strategies that degrade anti nutrients such as phytate and polyphenols and the optimal conditions required for the degradation are being studied, with the goal of enhancing bioavailability of Fe and Zn and may have implications for broader field testing and scaling-up of food processing technology in Ethiopia. Two more studies will further analyze local and improved varieties of pulses for micronutrient levels, food processing, acceptability, and practices and the formulation of products for incorporating pulse into the diet of young children. A fourth study has been design to explore the effect of post-harvest practices on improving pulse crops for household consumption. All four studies have been initiated and address Milestone 3.6. Objective 3 One study is completed and eight studies are underway to address objective 3 Characterize the soils of the study sites and apply management practices to improve their quality. The studies include both greenhouse and field experiments and aims to cover various aspects of soil management practices including micro nutrient deficiencies, micro nutrient sorption, intercropping and crop rotation. The details of the studies have been mentioned in section 3 and 4. Results of one of the studies so far revealed low content of Fe (<4 ppm) and Cu (<2 ppm) at all sites while Mn was low (<1 ppm) at Zeway and Alage. The Zn was very low (<1 ppm) at Zeway, Alage and Butajira while at other sites, it varied from 0.17 to 2.30 ppm. Thus, fertilization of these limiting micronutrients in the study area is important for increasing the yield and quality of crops and thus impacting human nutrition. The high sorption capacity of these soils for Zn which varied in the order; Zeway soil > Alage soil > Butajira soil > Taba soil > Halaba soil > Hawassa Zuria soil, also indicate their variable Zn supplying capacity to crops depending on soil characteristics and need Zn fertilization. 4

5 Fourteen of the 20 soil samples (0-30 cm) collected from Taba, Huletegna Choroko and Butajira sites for chickpea germplasm experiment were also deficient in Zn. Five chickpea varieties were sown on the three Zn deficient sites (Taba, Butajira and Halaba) and the plants were harvested in December, The laboratory analysis of soil, seed and straw samples is in progress. Objective 4- Three experiments have been conducted across three different locations (Halaba, Taba and Butajira) to evaluate the genetic variations of currently available varieties and germplasm of chickpeas and Haricot beans, the environmental effects and the interaction between genotype and environment on micronutrient, particularly Zn, absorption and deposition in seeds on selected sites. Initial results show that 14 of the 20 soil samples collected for the selection of sites for the experiments were Zn deficient indicating Zn could be the major growth limiting factor in the selected area. Analysis of the data would further reveal the impact of Zn deficiency on the magnitude of response of different chickpea germplasm. Objective 5- The project has adopted an integrated approach to the design and implementation of the nutrition education component of the project which involves training of agriculture and health extension workers, farmers and mothers of child bearing age. A key goal is to involve rural communities as leading players in the process of enhancing household nutritional status, by offering them pertinent skills in production, processing and preparation of pulse and non-pulse crops. 2.0 Research Problem Hunger and malnutrition are the most devastating problems facing many of the world s poor. Despite improvements in food availability, hunger exists in some form in most countries. Food security, at the individual, household, national, regional, and global levels is achieved when all people, at all times, have physical, social, and economic access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food to meet their dietary needs and food preferences for a healthy and active life (FAO, 2001). Food insecurity leading to malnutrition continues to be a major problem for the majority of the Ethiopian population and is closely linked to low productivity. Poverty in Ethiopia is largely a rural phenomenon, with nearly 90% of the poor living in rural areas (DFID, 2003). About a third of rural households farm less than 0.5 ha which, under rain-fed agriculture at current yield levels, cannot produce enough food to meet their requirements. Malnutrition and hunger vary by production season, with few public or social buffers providing food and nutritional support. Much of the focus on malnutrition and food insecurity in Ethiopia has been directed to interventions aiming to impact 90% of the population burdened by stunting that largely addresses inadequate dietary intake. The first 1000 days of a child s life from the nine months in utero to two years of age is thought to be a critical window of opportunity because nutritional setbacks during this period can result in irreversible losses to growth and cognitive potential and can reduce educational attainment and earning potential. The Scaling UP Nutrition Framework for Action (SUN), recently endorsed by more than 100 global partners and policymakers, highlights the need for early childhood and maternal nutrition-specific interventions to address increasing food insecurity in least developed countries. The goal of this project is to improve the health of rural Ethiopians, especially young children and females by breeding staple pulse food crops that are rich in micronutrients described as biofortification. A biofortification strategy seeks to bring the full potential of agricultural (soil, 5

6 plant science, food processing and value chain) and nutrition sciences to bear on the persistent problem of micronutrient malnutrition. Micronutrient malnutrition, primarily the result of diets poor in bioavailable vitamins and minerals, affects a great number of the more than half of the world s population, especially women and preschool children. The costs of these deficiencies in terms of lives lost, forgone economic growth, and poor quality of life are staggering. To reach the Millennium Development Goal s target of halving the proportion of undernourished people by 2015, new technologies and approaches are needed to help address the problem. Most agricultural interventions affect the household s nutritional status through support of production for household consumption and/or improving income-generation. Increases in production and better storage can lead to improve food access. In addition, better agriculturebased wage-earning opportunities, higher product prices, and lower consumer prices all have led to improved access for farmers and households. Improved nutrition supports the agriculture sector by enhancing rural people s ability to undertake the strenuous tasks involved in small-scale farming. The proposed project uses a whole food strategy to promote food security and health by combating protein-energy malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies in Ethiopian populations, especially among young children while contributing to the sustainability of local agro-ecosystems within an agro-food systems approach. 3.0 Progress towards Milestones This reporting period focuses on progress towards achieving Milestones 3.1 to 3.7. In addition, progress to achieving Milestones 1.3 to 1.6, carry over from zero to six-months is also reported. Much progress has been made towards meeting the milestones. Table 3.1 & 3.2 summarizes progress made towards achieving the milestones. Table 3.1 Progress towards achieving Milestones-0-6 month s carryover # Milestones Completed Status: In Progress 1.3 Recruitment of project staff, students; equipment purchased 1.4 Project Implementation strategies completed 1.5 Gender Framework completed completed 1.6 Baseline data completed Primary & secondary data collected Project staff have been recruited; graduate students in place, except 5-HU agriculture MSc Equipment purchase on-going- some analysis being carried out at UofS & EHNRI labs. Drafts completed, integration has began Primary & secondary data collected; gender framework & integration discussions ongoing; and focused discussion following gender workshop and during visit to the UofS Baseline collection also included as a component of graduate students and faculty research Anticipated completion date September, with follow-up work 6

7 3.1 Recruitment of project staff and consultant, identification of students and equipment purchase (Milestone 1.3) Much of the recruitment for project staff and graduate students was carried out during the 0-6 months reporting period. Two Research Assistants, one each in Nutrition and Agronomy, are now employed and engaged full time in the project activities. Three PhD (one each in Nutrition, Agronomy and Soil Science) and 15 MSc students (10 Nutrition, 2 Gender and Family Sciences, and one each Rural Development, Food Science and Agronomy) have been selected and are in various stages of data collection and /or proposal development on specific objectives of the project. Thirteen of the total 18 graduate students involved in the project thus far are female. The recruitment of 5 MSc students in Agronomy/Breeding and Soil Science is underway. The U of S project manager/post doc has been in place since November The HU micronutrient lab was set up in December, The purchase of equipment and supplies is underway. The lab will be used by faculty and graduate students involved in the project, particularly those on food processing strategies, and nutrition assessment. Data analysis is also continuing at the UofS and EHNRI laboratories for those needing to make use these laboratories options. Full equipment purchase has been delayed due to its lengthy process. 3.2 Project implementation strategy (Milestone 1.4) The project team has developed several tools based on the current project design (Fig. 1 Project Conceptual Framework) and work in progress to guide the implementation and evaluation of interventions. These include a nutrition outcome pathway (Fig. 2) that seeks to show the relationship with agriculture-nutrition and health interventions of the project, and a communication /scaling up strategy submitted in previous 0-6 month interim technical report. A project monitoring and evaluation framework (Annex 2) is appended. 3.3 Gender framework for the project (Milestone 1.5) Gender has been assigned a high priority throughout the development of the project and has generated considerable discussion during our planning meetings in Ethiopia and Canada. A gender study initiated during 0-6 months reporting period was completed in this 6-12 month reporting period by HU researchers, Nigatu and Gete. The study was conducted in the three CIFSRF project areas in Southern Nations and Nationality Peoples Region (SNNPR), and one district of Oromiya Region of Ethiopia namely; Damot Gale; Halaba; Hawassa Zuriya and Adamitulu Jido Combolcha to examine the gender roles in pulse production. A full report of the study is appended (Appendix 1). The next step for the research team is to evaluate existing and proposed projects to ensure that gender, health status, and social dimensions are addressed fully. Dr Nigatu and team will travel to the UofS this summer. The HU-UOFS team will conduct several activities, manuscript preparation, fine-tuning the gender framework and prepare strategies to further integrate gender into project activities. 3.4 Baseline survey (Milestone 1.6) For this milestone we have used a multi-approach to data collection. Secondary data has been obtained from studies carried out in the project sites during the Call-1 period. A synthesis of 7

8 these was carried out by researcher Kaler using the services of a Uof A PhD student (October- December, 2012) (Appendix II). An analysis of pulse production and management practices from gender perspectives is now completed, (October, 2012-March, 2013). Several interventions designed to address gender, health, and social relations dimensions have also incorporated a baseline component. These include data collection on nutrition components (food-diet-related, diet diversity), health status, food processing strategies, local/ traditional knowledge on food preparation, processing and consumption. All researchers have been directed to build on work previously carried out in Call-1 as it related to their project. Much of this involves integrating previously collected data into their project as is appropriate. Table 3.2 Summarizes progress towards achieving Milestones during 6-12 month reporting period # Milestones Status- Complet ed Status-In-progress Anticipated Date for completion 3.1 Literature Review X completed 3.2 Soil characterization for X nutrient deficiencies 3.3 First year field studies completed on the effects of Zn fertilization & Intercropping on nutrient intake & soil quality 3.4 First Year field studies on genetic variation of pulse under different environments 3.5 Studies completed on local practice & knowledge of agro-systems 3.6 Studies on biofortification practices Field data collection in progress Field data collection in progress 3 studies are in progress and data collection has began 4-studies are in various stages of data collection; report and manuscript writing will be done for 2- of the studies in August-October, /13 10/13 2/14 2/ First year field days held at study site completed X 3.5 Literature review Completed (Milestone 3.1) The purpose of the literature review is to understand other initiatives currently ongoing in Ethiopia and Africa (e.g. Harvest Plus, AGRA, CGIAR program on pulse crops, USAID Feed the Future program on pulse crops in Ethiopia, etc.) that may best position project activities. A search of the selected literature was conducted over the period of December, 2012-March 2013, 8

9 focusing on published and unpublished manuscripts, data bases and the WWW. A review of the literature suggests that similar work as is being carried out in Call-3 is indeed being carried out by Harvest Plus and others in Africa. In the case of HarvestPlus I ( Phase I), disciplinebased discovery research within plant breeding, nutrition, and socio economics was conducted. The current CIFSRF Call-3 study has adopted several strategies from this literature search, particularly in seeking to address nutrition-sensitive outcomes for the project s design (Appendix X, Fig. 1). The full report is found in Appendix III. No further reporting will be done. 3.6 Soil characterization for nutrient deficiencies (Milestone 3.2) Both morphological and chemical characterization of soils of Hawassa Zuria, Zeway, Halaba, Taba, Jole Andegna and Alage were done to address milestone 3.2. Analysis of soil samples revealed low Fe (<4 ppm) and Cu (<2 ppm) contents at all sites while Mn was low (<1 ppm) at Zeway and Alage. The Zn content in soils varied markedly (0.17 to 2.30 ppm) but it was very low (< 1.0 ppm) at Zeway, Alage and Butajira sites (Section 4.3). The analysis of zinc sorption indicated that the adsorption isotherm showed different curves for soil from each of the six locations. The order for Zn sorption followed a trend of Zeway soil > Alage soil > Butajira soil > Taba soil > Halaba soil > Hawassa Zuria soil. Both the adsorption maxima of Langmuir isotherm (except for Zeway and Alage soils) and the proportionality constant of Freundlich isotherm (for all soils) indicated that the zinc sorption capacity of the soils follow the aforementioned order. Greenhouse experiments which are underway will further reveal the availabilities of zinc and iron for Haricot bean varieties in soils collected from some selected areas of Ethiopia. 3.7 First year field studies completed on the effect of Zn Fertilization and intercropping on nutrient uptake and soil quality (Milestone 3.3) Five research studies (section 4 and Appendix IV-VI) directed to achieve milestone 3.3 have been designed for execution in the 2013 cropping season and would reveal the optimum rate and method of Zn fertilization for enhanced production and quality of haricot bean and maize as a sole or intercropped and soil quality. In addition, a research project on Effect of haricot bean inclusion within crop rotation on soil chemical properties and protein quality of wheat (Appendix VII) is being jointly executed by U of S and HU Faculty. The field experiment is in progress at Taba site in Ethiopia and soil has been shipped to U of S to repeat the treatments in the field under greenhouse condition. Furthermore, recruitment of 5 Agronomy and Soils MSc students, whose theses research project will be on intercropping, is underway and all the students will conduct their field research in 2013 cropping season (July to October, 2013). 3.8 First year field studies on the genetic variation of pulses under different environments (Milestone 3.4) The study emphasis on genetic and agronomic approaches for micronutrient (Zinc) enrichment in chickpea (Cicer Arietinum L.). Three independent experiments were conducted across three Zn- 9

10 deficient locations (Halaba, Taba, and Butajira) during 2012/13 cropping season to address milestone 3.4. These experiments are: Genetic and Environmental response of chickpea to zinc concentrations Effect of zinc fertilizer application strategies on growth, yield and zinc concentration of chickpea varieties Determination of optimum zinc fertilizer rates to chickpea varieties The data for growth, yield and yield components and soil and plant samples for Zn concentration have been collected (Section 4) and are in the process of analysis. The results are expected to reveal genetic variations among chickpea varieties to Zn application, the optimum Zn fertilizer rates for obtaining economic yields and the extent of Zn enrichment in seeds of different varieties viz. quality. 3.9 Studies completed on local practices and knowledge of agro-food systems (Milestone 3.5) Three studies are in progress for Milestone 3.5, 2-faculty research and 1-MSc nutrition graduate. These are described fully in Section 4- Synthesis of Research. The two studies in progress for faculty are: (1) Pulse value chain analysis in selected Woredas of Southern Ethiopia: Potentials and Constraints for livelihood improvement and export development and (2) Gender, household structure and local practices on pulse production and management among small holder farmers in four pulse producing districts in SNNPR and Oromia: Implication for asset building and nutritional security of vulnerable household members are initiated and the activities will commence shortly. One MSc nutrition study (Appendix VIII), "Assessment of traditional pulse and pulse based food processing, preparation and consumption in Elle Kebele, Butajira, SNNPR is also in progress. All three studies have been initiated, with an anticipated data collection completion date of September, Report and manuscript writing will be completed by 2/ Studies on biofortification practices (Milestone 3.6) Four studies involving both laboratory experiments and field work are on the way to address this objective. Experimental studies involve a multidisciplinary research team (graduate students and faculty) from HU and the Uof S. Field studies are strategized from different points, based on target groups (age, gender, social), types of intervention, analysis, food processing, storage characteristics. Each is described below- Table 3.4 Table 3.4 Progress towards studies on Biofortification Practices Study Student Title of research Status Micronutrient and Phytate levels 1 Hiwot Abebe, Project proposal completed; in commonly consumed Ethiopia UofS-PhD nutrition community-based consultation for dishes. student household recipes and processing methods to be conducted in May, 2013; currently awaiting seeds from Ethiopia. Faculty Research 10

11 2 Getenesh Berhanu; Addisalem Mesfin; Debebe Moges; Alemzewed Challa; Carol Henry; Susan Whiting. 3 Pragya Singh Tigist Fekadu Esayas Kinfe 4 Abadi Gebre Abrehet Fisseha Robert Bob Tyler Tadesse Fikre ) Traditional food processing and preparation practices to enhance bioavailability of iron and pulse based diets for 6-23 months IYC in Hawassa Zuria, Southern Ethiopia Quality evaluation of Desi and improved Kabuli varieties of chickpea, and formulation of flat bread incorporating best chickpea variety for preschool children at Bodity (Wolaita). Effect of post-harvest practices (sorting, drying & de-hulling) on physico-chemical properties of Chick pea (Cicer arietinum L.) and Faba bean (Vicia faba L.), flour and snack Foods in Hawassa Zuria. Data collection & analysis has begun and is expected to be completed by early summer. We have invited two faculty members (Getenesh & Debebe) from HU to travel to the UofS. They will work with UofS team to one manuscript from the study (July- September, 2013) Data collection has begun. There were some delays in obtaining ethics approval. It is expected that a full report will be submitted with the months Technical report. Laboratory experiments are in progress. These four studies have a direct link and are building on the work carried out in Call-1. Taken together, the studies will test new and traditional varieties of chickpeas and haricot beans for quality and nutritional properties for household processing techniques First year field days held at study sites (Milestone 3.7) Participatory variety selection involving seven improved chickpea and four lentil varieties were carried out on farmers fields in three project sites in 2012 at Halaba site under the activities of Call 1 project. 4.0-Synthesis of Research Activities and Results The new project focuses on bio-fortification of pulses, enriching the nutrition contribution of staple crops through plant breeding, coupled with soil micronutrient management to achieve much-needed improvement in food quality and security in Ethiopia. It uses an integrated approach (soil management, crop management, food processing, and human nutrition), which utilizes the information gained in the Call 1 (on-going project) on pulse crop management, varieties, and food processing. It uses an agro-food systems approach; - from field to fork, and describes the interdisciplinary nature of the project which takes into consideration the social, economic and cultural context under which pulse crops are produced, distributed and consumed. The project will result in a whole food strategy to combat micronutrient deficiencies together with protein-energy malnutrition in Ethiopian populations, while contributing to the sustainability of local agro-ecosystems within an agro-food systems approach. The research activities and results so far are described under the following objectives. 11

12 4.1 Establish the relationship of socioeconomic, gender, age, labour and health status of household communities to food security Objective 1: Establish the relationship of socioeconomic, gender, age, labour and health status of household communities to food security as it relates to pulse and non-legume staples. Key Activities: 1.1. Gather baseline information about the availability of and access to adequate pulse food supply, health and dietary practices relating to chickpeas, haricot beans and nonlegume staples at the household level; and socioeconomic conditions of household agriculture in participating communities Identify local practices and knowledge of agro-food systems, especially including pulses that can contribute to more sustainable agroecologies and food security Synthesize the primary data on gender, age and other socio-economic characteristics to stratify labour, land, authority and consumption, in order to develop a gender strategy toward implementation of appropriate interventions. Gender has been assigned a high priority throughout the development of the project and has generated considerable discussion during our planning meetings in Ethiopia and Canada. A gender study initiated during 0-6 months reporting period was completed in this 6-12 month reporting period by HU researchers, Nigatu and Gete. The study was conducted in the three CIFSRF project areas in Southern Nations and Nationality Peoples Region (SNNPR), and one district of Oromiya Region of Ethiopia namely; Damot Gale; Halaba; Hawassa Zuriya and Adamitulu Jido Combolcha to examine the gender roles in pulse production. The study involved conducting key informant interview with district level Bureau of Agriculture and Development experts and eight focus group discussions (FGDs) with married women, female household heads, community and religious leaders and development agents. Among the total FGD participants, 73% were female and among them 54.5% were women living in male headed households. Results revealed (Appendix I) that female headed households own much lesser land, livestock and other important strategic resources compared to male headed households. This in turn, has been observed to influence women s involvement in pulse production. The less number of livestock ownership resulted in consideration of women as weak farmers. The qualitative analysis revealed that haricot bean was found to be favored over lentil and chickpeas. The major constrains associated with low production of pulses include problem in selecting suitable variety of seeds for the soil type; pest problems; unaffordable cost of fertilizers which often force farmers to produce haricot bean without fertilizer; lack of money to buy improved seed. In addition, the local cultural practices have limited women from benefiting economically despite their hogtie involvement in the production of pulse. Certain household level variables like land size owned, educational status of the head of the household, age of the household head, and use of agricultural extension packages though affect the level of pulse production and purchase, the regression analysis could not produce significant association between gender and the two dependent variables of interest (pulse production and purchase), implying that gender influences these aspects in indirect and complex channels. 12

13 Recommendations include, the need for the development of a gender analysis frame work to take into account the women in the male headed households in addition to the women in the female headed households, and that gender differences existed in terms of assessing land, technologies and other strategic resources. Dr Amy Kaler has conducted a secondary data analysis of work carried out in Call-1 relating to gender. We have invited Dr Nigatu to meet the Canadian team to the UofS this summer-(july- September) to finalize the gender framework and strategies to ensure gender responsiveness for the study. Members of the team attended an IDRC gender workshop, April, Faculty research on Gender, household structure and local practices on pulse production and management among small holder farmers in four pulse producing districts in SNNPR and Oromia: Implication for asset building and nutritional security of vulnerable household members by Nigatu Regassa and Gete Tsegaye with the involvement of Canadian researchers will commence shortly. Additionally, a study on Pulse value chain analysis in selected woredas of Southern Ethiopia: Potentials and Constraints for livelihood improvement and export development (by Towodros Tefera) will be carried out. The main objective of this study is to analyze pulses value chain with the following specific objectives: To map pulses value chain actors in the study area To estimate the marketing margin of pulses along the value chain To examine the contribution and export potential of pulse in the study area To identify constraints of pulse value chain in the study area In sum, five studies directed especially to addressing the relationship between socioeconomics, health, gender, age have been developed by the project team, one is completed. Synthesize of these (primary & secondary) data is ongoing. The result of the studies aims to improve women and children's access to adequate and diversified diets. We anticipate that more than 500 farmers and farming households will be impacted. The final gender strategy will help to shape both current and future interventions. Data generated will also help to inform the decisions of government as it relates to addressing the socioeconomics, gender and health of Ethiopian households. At least 1-manuscript will be written this summer by Dr Nigatu and team in Canada (UofS faculty exchange), others are expected to be written by 2/ Micronutrient levels existing in pulses and non-legume staple crops Objective 2: Evaluate the micronutrient and phytate levels in commonly consumed Ethiopian dishes and develop intervention mechanisms, which include using biofortification to improve food security at household level. 13

14 In Call-1, different pulses varieties were tested in different agricultural zones of Ethiopia to develop food security of the country by improving the productivity of pulses and sustaining soil health. The activities, (2.1) Collect samples and determine the micronutrient levels in legumes and non-legume staples, available in the study sites and (2.2) Determination of zinc, iron and phytate contents of most commonly consumed Ethiopian dishes, will be carried out. In addition, the effect of germination and fermentation methods on the phytate content of foods will be analyzed and 2.3 use information from & and research on micronutrient-rich legumes, in consultation with communities, to suggest [design/implement] interventions to improve nutrition, food security and health. Study 1- Micronutrient and Phytate levels in commonly consumed Ethiopia dishes (By Hiwot Abebe, UofS-PhD Nutrition student). Building on the 0-6 months Interim Report, UofS, PhD nutrition student Hiwot Abebe, is conducting a study under controlled laboratory conditions utilizing laboratory facilities at the UofS. In this study, food processing strategies that degrade anti nutrients such as phytate and polyphenols and the optimal conditions required for the degradation are being studied to enhance the bioavailability of Fe and Zn. Four traditional Ethiopian dishes will be prepared by soaking and germinating chickpea and haricot beans and analyzing nutrients (iron, zinc, calcium, protein and folate) and anti -nutrient (phytate and polyphenols) levels of prepared dishes. Iron bioavailability will be evaluated through Caco-2 cell coupled with in vitro digestion. This study is in progress, household recipe collection and trials is in progress. Processing and analysis will be conducted this summer-fall, and full report will be made available for the 18-24months technical report. The study has received approval from the UofS. The study brings together a multidisciplinary team of UofS researchers nutrition, food science/processing, soil science/, plant breeding, and toxicology and may have implications for broader field testing and scaling-up of food processing technology in Ethiopia. Two additional studies are in progress, and while with some overlaps, are going beyond assessment of micronutrient levels of pulse crops. These studies were only recently approved at the 9-months progress meeting (HU), December, They are described next. Study 2- Traditional food processing and preparation practices to enhance the bioavailability of iron and zinc in pulse based diets for 6-23 month IYC in Hawassa Zuria is being undertaken by HU nutrition faculty in collaboration with UofS nutrition researchers (Berhanu, Mesfin, Moges,,Challa, Henry, Whiting). The project is divided into 2-phases. Phase 1 is now completed and the results of this focus group discussion (FGD) are described. There were 3 semi-structured focus group discussions with 9-women participating in each group. The focus discussion was carried out to assess participant s access to pulse crops, as well as consumption, processing and preparation practices, and feeding practice of young children. Participants with similar sex, age group, religion, and educational level were selected for each FGD session. 14

15 The study revealed that there is no common traditional ways of household processing method except roasting. Based on the FGD findings, complementary food is prepared mainly from maize in the study area. Incorporating pulse crop in the complementary diet is not common and the major reasons were: lack of knowledge on the preparation specifically for infants and lack of availability of pulses especially in dry seasons. Almost all participants have a good attitude towards pulse and they believe its importance for the wellbeing and health of children as well as pregnant women. Thus, they are willing to purchase and use it for the family consumption including young children if they learn how to prepare it. Based on the result of FGD two household food processing method can be introduced for the community, that is, roasting and germinating which are somehow familiar to the community. The study is proceeding next to Phase II which involves the analysis and testing of two appropriate methods for complementary food and methods to reduce phytate content. Pulse based complementary food will be analyzed for protein, fat, ash, carbohydrate, Fe, Zn, Ca, Vitamin A and phytate. Study 3- Quality evaluation of Desi and improved kabuli varieties of chickpea and formulation of flat bread incorporating best chickpea variety for preschool children at Wolaita Sodo by HU food science and nutrition faculty (Singh, Fikadu, Kinfe) has been initiated. Ethical approval has recently been received and data collection has started. As indicted previously, Milestone 2.0, this is a multiphase, multicomponent study that integrates food processing technology and nutrition education to address improvement in child nutrition using improved varieties of pulse crops. In Phase I, an analysis for nutrient and antinutrients composition will be carried out, as will analysis of physicochemical, cooking and functional characteristics of the new varieties of chickpeas, and sensory analysis of the products prepared from control and experimental varieties of chickpeas. The study will also analyse, storage stability of pulses in phase II and the acceptability of a newly formulated flat bread for preschool children Study 4- Effect of Post-harvest Practices (Sorting, Drying & De-hulling) on Physico-chemical Properties of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) and Faba bean (Vicia faba L.) Flour and Snack Foods in Hawassa zuria by HU/ UofS food science faculty researchers (Gebre, Fisseha, Tyler, Fikre) has begun. In this study, selected chickpea and faba bean varieties will be sorted, dried and dehulled and their physico-chemical properties will be determined and compared against the check treatment. Standard procedures will be used to determine moisture and dry matter content, ash content, particle size, solubility, turbidity and color measurement, syneresis, oligosaccharide level, dietary fiber, protein content, starch content, bulk density. It is expected that data collection will be completed and findings will be reported with the months technical report. Increasingly, studies underscore the social costs of rural women's lack of education and assets, linking it directly to high rates of undernutrition and infant mortality. The high economic costs: wasted human capital and low labour productivity stifle rural development and progress in agriculture, while threatening food security for both for women and men. Taken together these studies have broad applications for improving household processing practices, enhanced bioavailability of nutrients, and new pulse food products for use by rural farmers and their households in the study sites and beyond. Enhanced household processing technology will also 15

16 help to improve the workload of women, and other household members responsible for postharvest processing. 4.3 (a) Soil characterization- micro and macro nutrient levels and possible deficiencies existing in the soils of study area Objective 3: Characterize the soils of the study sites and apply management practices to improve their quality. Two studies whose main focus is to address milestone 3.2 Characterization of soils in the study sites and analysis of possible nutrient deficiencies existing in soils completed of the joint technical report and another laboratory study to examine the sorption behaviour of applied Zn to soils of selected sites has been completed. Study 1. Field characterizations of soils of Butajira, Taba, Halaba, Hawassa Zuria, Zeway and Alagae were carried out by PhD student Abay Ayalew. Two pedons were excavated at each site and morphological properties were described in situ. The morphological characterization included: identification of soil horizons (depth, thickness, and boundary), field soil texture, structure, color, consistency, carbonate content, porosity and root distribution. Soil samples were collected from every identified horizon. Fifty eight soil samples from the identified soil horizons and 66 soil samples from 0-15 and cm were collected in 3 replications and analyzed for 16 parameters which include total nitrogen, available phosphorus, exchangeable bases (exchangeable Ca, Mg, K and Na), ph, electrical conductivity, soil particle size, calcium carbonate, micronutrients (Mn, Cu, Zn and Fe) and organic carbon. The analysis of result indicated that Fe and Cu contents of soils in all sites were low, which were < 4 ppm and < 2ppm, respectively. Manganese (Mn) was low (<1 ppm) in Zeway and Alage, but medium (b/n 1 and 5 ppm) to high (>5 ppm) in Hawassa Zuria, Butajira, Halaba and Taba. The analysis of soils from Zeway, Alage and Butajira indicated low Zn content ranging from ppm, ppm and ppm, respectively while that of Hawassa Zuria, Halaba and Taba soils ranged from ppm, ppm, ppm, respectively. However, the Zn contents of most of the samples was below 1.5ppm indicating the soils were zinc deficient (Johnson and Fixen, 1990) quoted by Aref (2012). Study 2: Pot experiments (by PhD Agriculture student Abay Ayalew) were conducted in a total of 414 pots and comprise 3 experiments. Evaluation of zinc and iron availabilities in soils of selected areas of Ethiopia under greenhouse condition for Haricot bean production. This experiment is being conducted on soils collected from six locations (Hawassa Zuria, Zeway, Halaba, Taba, Jole Andegna and Alage). The experiment is being conducted at HU. Tissue samples (upper fully expanded leaves) were collected at the start of flowering for analysis of nutrients. By now the crop set pods. Response of Haricot bean varieties to application of different levels of zinc in soils collected from some selected areas of Ethiopia. This experiment is being conducted on soils collected from three locations (Taba, Halaba and Jole Andegna). Tissue samples 16

17 (upper fully expanded leaves) were collected at the start of flowering for analysis of nutrients. By now the crop set pods. Response of Haricot bean varieties to application of different levels of iron in soils collected from some selected areas of Ethiopia. This experiment is being conducted on soils collected from three locations (Taba, Halaba and Jole Andegna). Tissue samples (upper fully expanded leaves) were collected at the start of flowering for analysis of nutrients. By now the crop set pods. Study 3. Sorption of zinc and iron in soils of some selected areas of Southern Ethiopia (by Abay Ayalew).This study has been conducted and analysis is being carried out. The analysis of zinc sorption indicated that the adsorption isotherm showed different curves for soil from each of the six locations. The order for Zn sorption followed a trend of Zeway soil > Alage soil > Butajira soil > Taba soil > Halaba soil > Hawassa Zuria soil. Both the adsorption maxima of Langmuir isotherm (except for Zeway and Alage soils) and the proportionality constant of Freundlich isotherm (for all soils) indicated that the zinc sorption capacity of the soils is in the aforementioned order. 4.3 (b) First year field studies completed on the effect of Zn and Fe Fertilization and intercropping on nutrient uptake and soil quality Six studies are underway to address milestone 3.3 of objective 3. Study 1. Response of Haricot bean varieties to application of different levels of zinc in some selected areas of Ethiopia (field condition) by Abay Ayalew. Study 2. Response of Haricot bean varieties to application of different levels of iron in some selected areas of Ethiopia (field condition) by Abay Ayalew. The experiments for the study 1 and 2 are planned to be conducted in Halaba (Huletegna Choroko), Taba and Butajira (Andegna Jole). Regarding the status of the activity, sites and trial farmers are selected and the experimental areas are measured and marked. Necessary discussions are made with the farmers on the nature of the experiments, the test crop to be used and the farmer s interest crop and the consent to carry out the experiments. Waiting for rainfall to implement the experiments. Study 3. The effect of rate and application methods of Zn fertilizer on the growth, yield and Zn content of Haricot Bean inter-cropped with Maize in Ziway and Butajera areas of South Ethiopia (by Wassie Haile, Sheleme Beyene and Dhyansingh). The study seeks to do whether zinc is a limiting soil nutrient to Haricot bean and maize, optimum rate and method of Zn fertilizer application for enhanced production and quality of Haricot bean and maize production and recommendations for future use of Zn fertilizer for these crops in Ziway and Butajira areas.the field research will commence in the forthcoming growing season. 17

18 Study 4. Production efficiency of staggered sowing of three common bean cultivars intercropped at different populations with maize (By Tamiru Hirpa).This study is initiated with the objective to determine the effects of staggered sowing and population density of three common bean cultivars in intercrop with maize crop under the soil and climatic conditions of Ziway and Alaba areas and will be executed on two sites in the upcoming growing season. The relative productive capacity of intercropping vis-à-vis the respective monocultures will be computed for land use efficiency and other interspecific competition indices, to determine the efficiency of the cropping systems. Study 5. Performance of chickpea varieties after maize and haricot bean at Halaba district, SNNPRS (By Berhanu Abate and Sheleme Beyene). The study will be carried out at Huletegna Choroko kebele, in Halaba district, SNNPRS with the objectives of identifying high yielding farmers-preferred chickpea varieties, determining influence of maize-chickpea and haricot beanchickpea double cropping on soil chemical properties and performance of chickpea varieties after maize and haricot bean Study 6. Effect of haricot bean inclusion within crop rotation on soil chemical properties and protein quality of wheat (By Atul Nayyar, Sheleme Beyene, Jeff Schoenau, Carol Henry, and Tussa Dedefo).The study will be jointly executed by U of S and HU Faculty with the objective to determine the influence of including pulse in rotation system on soil chemical properties and quality of the produce. The field experiment has been initiated at Taba site in Ethiopia and soil has been shipped to U of S to repeat the treatments in the field under greenhouse condition. These experiments designed to meet above objective will help to improve the farming systems and practices for enhanced production. The effect of Zn and Fe application on haricot beans, intercropping and crop system studies will help improve food fortification and better income. 4.4 Genetic variations of currently available varieties and germplasm of chickpeas and Haricot beans evaluated Objective 4: Evaluate the genetic variations of currently available varieties and germplasm of chickpeas and Haricot beans, the environmental effects and the interaction between genotype and environment on micronutrient, particularly Zn, absorption and deposition in seeds on selected sites. Three experiments conducted across three locations (Halaba, Taba and Butajira) during 2012/13 cropping season by Legesse Hidoto on germplasms of chickpeas were harvested (Fig. 3). Based on the proposal, data on all growth, yield and yield components were collected and the organization and summarization for analysis is underway. Soil and plant samples were also collected and are in the process for analysis. Initial results show that 14 of the 20 soil samples collected for the selection of sites for the experiments were Zn deficient (Annex 6) indicating Zn could be the major growth limiting factor in the selected area. Analysis of the data would further reveal the impact of Zn deficiency on the magnitude of response of different chickpea germplasm. 18

19 These experiments undertaken for this study will impact the farming systems and processes by providing opportunities for adoption of improved technologies for enhanced production. The study involves 50 male farmers, 66 female farmers, 4 extension workers, 15 policy makers for better adoption of new technology. 4.5 Nutrition intervention mechanisms developed and tested using various approaches to improve household food and nutrition security (Milestone 5.1) Objective 5: Develop and Implement the use of additional and innovative strategies within the agriculture-nutrition link to promote a wider pulse production and use of pulse and non-pulse crops for improved food security and nutrition Improving food and nutrition security for the most vulnerable women, children, and families requires a multifaceted approach to address the root causes of hunger and poverty. Innovations under this objective 5 are designed to demonstrate that integrating women s empowerment programs with traditional health and nutrition interventions can make a big difference in improving lives of impoverished communities. A total of eight (8) studies are proposed, four have been initiated and four studies are at the proposal writing stage. The studies use various approaches (income generation through women s microenterprise, participatory communitybased nutrition education and recipe generation) to empower women in building health and nutrition for themselves and their households. The activities (5.1, 5.2, 5.3) undertaken in studies are described next. 5.1 Strengthen nutrition education and training for extension and community workers so as to enable them to articulate to the community on the importance of healthy behaviours for improved food security. 5.2 Conduct education and training on the use of new varieties on pulse and other nonleguminous crops. 5.3 Work with community members to develop appropriate indicators and data collection methods to monitor effects of project (e.g. acceptability of food prepared with new varieties, gender and inter-household inequality, etc.), through meetings, workshops, demonstration/on-farm/in-kitchen trials, and dissemination of education materials. Study 1: Dietary practices, maternal nutritional status and stunting in < 5 years old children: A comparative study in pulse growing and non-pulse growing rural communities in Southern Ethiopia (Appendix XIII), focuses on reducing stunting through nutrition intervention. The study is being conducted by UofS PhD student Getahun Lombamo and researchers, Henry & Zello in collaboration with the Ethiopia Health and Nutrition Institute (EHNRI). The study has received ethics approval from the UofS and is in the ethics approval stage for EHNRI and the receipt of permission to conduct the study from the regional Bureaus of Agriculture in the SSNPR and Oromiya regions The study seeks to do a comparative analysis of dietary practices, nutritional and health status of mothers and their young children (< 5 years of age) in the selected communities, with considerations for gender, age, health, and socioeconomics in both pulse and non-pulse growing communities. The study uses a pre-post-intervention design and will assess the effect of a participatory community-based nutrition education about promotion of pulses as part of healthy meals on the knowledge, attitude, practice and nutritional status of mothers. 19

20 Study 2: Assessment of the effects of nutrition education on promoting pulse in complementary feeding practices in Tabe Kebelle, Damot, Gale Woreda, Wolayita Zone, Southern Ethiopia, is being carried out by MSc student Demellash Mulualem,supervised by UofS faculty Henry & Whiting (Appendix XIV). The study will test the hypothesis, promoting pulses in complementary feeding practices will improve the nutritional status of children aged 6-21months in the intervention group and knowledge, attitude, belief and practices of mothers/caregivers on the use of pulses in complementary feeding practices in the intervention group will be improved better than those in the control group. As with study 1- a pre-post-intervention design is used. Baseline data collection is in progress. Full data collection is on track to be completed by summer, Study 3: Social Marketing of nutrient rich locally processed complementary foods through nutrition education to Village-Based Women s microenterprises in Hawassa Zuria, South Ethiopia (Appendix XV) adopts a public-private social marketing strategy to encourage the promotion and use food processing technology to complementary foods using pulse crops. An important outcome of this study will be capacity building (in terms of equipment, production space and market linkage) of women s groups in the target areas; develop training materials (pamphlets, manuals, DVDs) illustrating uses & preparation methods of traditional & new food products; social market of nutrient rich locally processed complementary foods through nutrition education to village-based women s enterprises. The study, approved in December, at the 9-moth progress meeting has been initiated and is expected to be completed by summer, Five additional studies (Table 3) are being constructed by five Applied Nutrition students ( ). These five female students ( ) will complete their studies in the school year. Study 4: Assessment of Factors Affecting Consumption of and Barriers to the Production of Pulse Crops in Hurufalole kebele, Oromia, Ethiopia, (Appendix XVI) is being carried out by HU MSc nutrition student Alemneh Kabeta, under the direction of UofS researcher Carol Henry & co-advisor Debebe Moges. The main objective of this study is to identify factors affecting consumption of and barriers to the production of pulse crops in Adami Tulu, Oromiya, Ethiopia. The study is unique in that it will assess factors affecting both production and consumption, thereby making the agriculture-nutrition link. More than four hundred households will be sampled. Oromiya is one of the largest and most populous regions in Ethiopia, with a diet mainly of cereal grains. Results of this study will have important policy option for scaling up pulse production and consumption in the region. Five fellowships to following female students ( ) are targeting gender, within different demographics. All five concept notes were approved; students are developing their proposals and will begin data collection later in the fall. Student Title of research Status Frezer Abebe Efficacy of nutrition education materials targeting pulses consumption at household level in low income mothers in Halaba Huletegha Choroko 20 Concept notes Approved Roza Dansa Efficacy of nutrition education of female farmers on pulse Concept notes

21 Elizabeth Tafese Rahel Asrat Sara Fikru consumption and nutritional status of preschool children in Taba Kebele, Gale Woreda, Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia. Effect of nutrition education on pulses for household consumption, dietary practices and food security in pulses producer farmers in Taba kebeles, Damot Gale Wolaita Southern Region Ethiopia Comparative study between pulses users and non pulses users in relation with nutritional status and household food security among preschool children s Taba kebele, Damot Gale Woreda, Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia Assessment of food security and nutritional status among user and non-pulse user preschool child: A comparative community based cross-sectional study Approved Concept notes Approved Concept notes Approved Concept notes Approved 4.6. Healthy ecologies for food security strategies Objective 6: Develop, disseminate, and uptake promotion of healthy ecologies for food security strategies Develop and implement a process to encourage collaboration between researchers and community members at all stages from project design to dissemination and uptake. The following activities have occurred doing this 0-6 months period team planning meetings: one time at each site (UofS & HU)- March (UofS); May (HU). These include, frequent communications for updates & involvement in project planning, another methods of communication as addressed in the draft Communication Strategy. A 9-month progress meeting with stakeholders was held in December, At this meeting, researchers HU/UofS and graduate students worked along with two senior technical specialists (Tiessen Sanginga) reviewed progress towards meeting project milestones. The project team also met with CIDA representatives, December, The meeting informed CIDA representatives for awareness raising and information sharing. The meeting was well received. Carol Henry and Sheleme Beyene were interviewed in December with Ethiopian media about the new Global Institute for Food Security using the current work in HU as the media hook. The interview was carried out by The Sub Saharan Informer (A pan African newspaper that has a circulation of 5000 copies per issue). In addition, the project has launched the Call-3 website ( _Call_3/Home.html ) which is opened to stakeholders and non-stakeholders. Additional communication tools used include, frequent communications for updates & involvement in project planning, another methods of communication as addressed in the draft Communication Strategy. 21

22 5.0 Project implementation and management Composition HU Drs. Yibrah Beyene (Chair), Dean, College of Agriculture; Ajebu Nurfeta, Coordinator, Graduate Studies & Research; Berhanu Abate, Head School of Plant & Horticurltural Science; Eden Mengustu, Head, School of Gender, Environment & Development; Hannock, Head, School of Human Nutrition, Food Science & Technology; Sheleme Beyene, PI Secretary. Composition UofS Drs David Hill (designee, Gord Zello), Dean College of Pharmacy and Nutrition; Susan Blum (designee, Laurel Occoner), Director, International Research; Phyllis Shand, Head, Department of Food and BioProducts; Sina Adl, Head, Department of Soil Science; Bruce Coulman, Department of Plant Science; Carol Henry, PI, Secretary Each Steering Committee (HU & UofS) met in 2012, (August, UofS; May & December, 2012, HU). At each meeting project P.I. & secretary (HU &/or UofS) provided a briefing on the progress of the activities being carried out, including the work plan, and project monitoring tools developed. This Project Steering Committee meeting covered the period March, August, 2012 (December 2012 HU). In particular approval was sought from the Project Steering Committee for the work plan, including demonstrated projects. The December, 2012 meeting was the second meeting of the HU steering committee, and covered the period of April- December, In the case of HU, support for PhD students was reviewed and new guidelines approved. Both P.I participated in the two steering committee meetings. Through these meetings, project P.I.s obtained guidance and directions to help maximize strategies for meeting the project s five key objectives. The project s management team (P.I.s, project manager, researchers) meets regularly. Project P.I meets via SKYPE , or conference call, on matters of importance to project activities in both regions. Although the project is making good progress to meet its five key objectives, there have been a few delays beyond the project s control, some with budget implications that have slowed the use of the funds. Such difficulties include problems in obtaining VISAS for HU faculty traveling to Canada, purchasing equipment, and in some cases, obtaining import permit to transport seeds (old and improved varieties of chickpeas and haricot beans) to Canada. These issues are being addressed and we are making progress in meeting each of the challenges. Much of the activities in progress have been described under section 3- progress towards achieving milestones. Both P.I.s & UofS project manager are meeting at HU this May, 2013 where budget allocations will be reviewed and strategies designed to ensure smooth and appropriate utilization of funds within year. The team aims to review budget, work on project activities towards the success of all the projects related to Call3 and will seek out requirements for further funding support to increase the reach to farmers and their households in the project sites and larger communities. A summary workplan and budget allocation for the month reporting period will be prepared and submitted to IDRC immediately following this meeting, May

23 6.0 Problems and Challenges Research on haricot bean was not started in 2012 cropping season since the planting time was over at all sites when the project implementation started. However, it is planned to conduct the research on this particular crop twice in 2013 (March to September) using the small and big rains. Unavailability of some laboratory equipment on local market was another challenge faced during the last six months.hu procurement and property management Directorate has prepared bid document and importers will be identified shortly. We have been notified that the PhD student conducting research on germplasm faced challenges of waterlogging and shortage of moisture at Taba and Butajira sites, respectively. Measures taken to overcome the challenges will be included in the next interim report. Progress in receiving Import permits in Canada has been slow. This has affected progress in obtaining local and improved varieties on pulse from Ethiopia, for the two studies (PhD & postdoc). Measures are being taken to overcome this challenge. It is expected that the studies will proceed as planned once the permits are received. Budgetary challenges are described in section 5.0 project implementation and management. 7.0 Recommendation We have no major recommendation at this point. We are continuing to make much progress in achieving the project s five (5) key objectives. 23

24 Annex 1- Monitoring AFS Expected Outcomes There are five key objectives for the project. These innovations fall under five (5) sections in the Annual Monitoring Questionnaire, namely, health status, micronutrient levels, soil quality, genetic variations, and nutrition interventions. Within each of these, are 2-3 innovations. The objectives and progress towards meeting them are described in section 4 (synthesis of research activities). The five categories of innovations are described next under- new technologies and/or farming systems and practices, diet diversity and nutrition (micronutrient levels & nutrition innovations), and food processing and storage, and gender (health status). New technologies and/or farming systems and practices. How is the project leading to new and improved agricultural technologies and/or farming systems and practices that increase food production? New varieties of chickpeas and haricot beans will be introduced and tested across the research sites. Application of micronutrients has never been practised in the sites. Zinc will be applied on chickpeas and the response of different varieties to different methods of Zn application as well as Zn enrichment of seed and straw will be evaluated. Similarly, response of four recently released haricot bean varieties to different levels of Fe and Zn applications will be evaluated across sites. Although intercropping is not new to the sites, different spacing, varieties and inoculation experiments will be conducted to generate new technologies specific to and/or across sites. Adoption to new genetic varieties of chickpea not only improves farming systems and practices but also helps enhance food production and household income. Three experiments are designed across three Zn-deficient locations (Halaba, Taba, and Butajira) to address genetic and agronomic approaches for micronutrient (Zinc) enrichment in chickpea (Cicer Arietinum L.). Dietary diversity & nutrition. Pulses are high in protein, carbohydrates, and dietary fibre and are a rich source of other nutritional components viz. B group vitamins and minerals (Tharanathan & Mahadevamma, 2003) and their consumption and production extends worldwide. Pulses used for human consumption include peas, beans, lentils, chickpeas, and faba beans (Rochfort & Panozzo, 2007). On account of their high nutritive value they are the main sources for human and animal nutrition especially in the developing countries (Tharanathan & Mahadevamma, 2003) Dietary quality is a critical limiting factor to adequate nutrition in many resource-poor settings. Bioavailability is one aspect of dietary quality with respect to adequacy of micronutrient intake among resource-poor populations. Three studies are seeking ways to enhanced traditional household food-processing and preparation methods in order to enhance the bioavailability of micronutrients in pulse-based diets. The ones that are being tested in this project are, soaking, fermentation, and germination/malting. These strategies aim to increase the physicochemical accessibility of micronutrients, while decreasing the content of antinutrients, such as phytate, or increase the content of compounds that improve bioavailability (Hotz & Gibson, 2007). A fourth study focuses on improving post-harvest processing strategies (sorting, drying, de-hulling) and physico-chemical properties of chickpea. Taken together these four studies will help to inform 24

25 new and enhanced practices for pulses crop processing and preparation among rural Ethiopian farmers. The project has a strong focus on integrating nutrition innovations. These include education of extension and community workers to enable them to articulate to farmers and community members about importance of healthy behaviours for improved food processing, preparation and consumption among household members. These approaches (reduced stunting, strengthening women s enterprises) vary depending on the target population reached (children, females mothers of child bearing age and women enterprises). Every effort is being made to work closely with community stakeholders in addressing the activities undertaken for this objective. Other key considerations include, partnership strengthening for scaling-up of nutrition interventions, and findings ways to integrate gender responsiveness into the project activities. A Nutrition Outcome Pathway (figure 3), provides an overall description of the approach used in Engagement of Canadian researchers with Southern researcher organizations (for CIFSRF-funded projects only). Is there increased use of Canadian knowledge and resources to address environmentally sustainable agricultural productivity and nutrition problems in developing countries? Both partner universities have been engaged in collaborative work to build the research capacity and training at HU. The partnership has a long and successful relationship since Researchers from UofS are using expertise and closely work with HU Faculty in plant breeding (chickpeas) and soil management to help address some of the issues related to nutrition and food security in southern Ethiopia. Faculty from HU travel each year to the UofS to work in advanced condition in the College of Agriculture and Bio-Resources and upgrade their capacity. UofS nutrition faculty continues to use their research training to build the capacity of the nutrition staff and graduate students to develop innovative health promotion programs for women and children. In this project, the goal of research is to ensure the effectiveness of health promotion and nutrition interventions and deliver research-based community nutrition education with a view to broaden policy horizons in addressing food and nutrition security in Ethiopia. Research groups. How is the project contributing to stronger research groups for improved food security policies and decision-making? Faculty from the division of nutrition, UofS, has been involved in shaping the nutrition curriculum since More than 50 students have graduated from the program and are now contributing to building the national nutrition agenda as educators (higher education), public health professionals and nutritionist. UofS faculty assumes responsibility for guiding graduate student research on the project, HU co-supervise, thus also building staff capacity. HU faculty, both agriculture and nutrition, will conduct joint research with the partners from UofS. This will enhance experience sharing and strengthen the capacity of young staff at HU to conduct research. Food distribution. How is the project contributing to more equitable food distribution for food security? 25

26 Food processing and storage. How is the project contributing to improved food processing and storage for food security? One joint faculty research (described earlier) in area of Food Science and Post-harvest Technology has been initiated. The study, the effect of post-harvest practices (sorting, drying & de-hulling) on physic-chemical properties of chickpea and Faba bean flour and snack foods is expected to yield important outcomes to addressing food processing and storage. Several other studies are seeing to address issues pertaining to food processing and storage as it relates to enhancing micronutrient utilization. This remains an important component of project activities. Risk-mitigation. How is the project contributing to better risk-mitigation for food security? Access to resources. How is the project contributing to improved access to resources for food production and security? E.g. land tenure, extension and credit, market access. In this study, understanding the agriculture value-chain framework maybe one of the strategies used to recommend more efficiency in pulse production and processing. The study, pulse value chain analysis in selected woredas of Southern Ethiopia and constraints for livelihood improvements and export development is expected to provide import insights with recommendations for improved access to resources for food production and security. Income generation. How is the project contributing to improving vulnerable/poor people s ability to purchase more and better quality food, in particular for the benefit of women and children? The project is aimed at improving the productivity of pulses, which are known as poor man s crops. Growing high yielding varieties with better management will enable the vulnerable/poor farmers to get more protein for themselves. This is particularly important for the family of the poor, as they are totally dependent on plant protein. The farmers will sell whatever produced in excess, which could be verified by the project s market and consumer studies report shortly. Policy options. How is the project influencing the development and implementation food security policies? Findings from the studies and extension activities undertaken in this CIFSRF project will be shared with decision makers at various levels- national, regional and local levels, using a variety of media (published and reports).. ICTs. Has the use of ICTs contributed to increase access to information and improved food security for the most vulnerable? It is expected that as the studies and extension work progress, greater efforts will be placed on sharing outcomes using local media (radio, newspapers), and other outlets. Gender. Several projects are focused on addressing health, socioeconomics, and gender issues. One project began during 0-6 months reporting period and was completed in this 6-12 month 26

27 reporting period by HU researchers Nigatu and Gete. It is also important to note that project activities to-date has been very sensitive to addressing gender concerns, such as in planning and implementation of project activities. Two of the PhD projects are seeking ways to address the needs of females- assessing the effectiveness of methodologies for processing and preparation practices for enhanced bioavailability of nutrients in Ethiopian households and dietary practices, maternal status and stunting in <5years old children: A comparative study in pulse growing and non-pulse growing rural communities in southern Ethiopia. Further work is planned by the gender team much will be worked on as Dr Nigatu and team (Gete, Getenesh, Mojos) visit Canada this summer to collaborate with the Canadian gender team (Jaffe & Kaler). Environment. The project focuses on indigenous management practices with low external input. Some of the graduate research works will include biological nitrogen fixation in pulses and residue management of pulse crops. All these reduce external inputs of chemicals and will ensure sustainability without affecting the environment. The project is designed to enhance research and extension expertise, promote farm-based and human nutrition expertise, particularly among women. Few mechanisms exist in Ethiopia to address the multifactorial causes of food insecurity. This CIFSRF project will provide important findings for policy uptake and for dissemination to the wider scientific community and lay community. 27

28 ANNEX 2: TEAM COMPOSITION List key members of ALL applicant research teams (add more tables and rows as needed). For type of organization, indicate: government, university, private sector, NGO (national), NGO (international), or other. Organization 1 (name, type of organization, country). Hawassa University, Government organization, Ethiopia Family name Given name Male (M) / Female (F) Job title Address (mailing address, phone number, fax, ) Project role/responsibility (please indicate if lead PI and identify if consultant) % of time committed on this project Jiru Sheleme Beyene M Associate Professor P.O.Box 5, Hawassa Ethiopia, shelemebe@yahoo.com Lead P.I. Activities on soil Science, advise PhD and MSc students, Joint research administration 20% Ali Kebede Abegaz M Assistant Professor Kebede Abegaz <abegaz2005@yahoo.co.uk> Food processing, fermentation, knowledge transfer, and local coordinator 10% Ayele Walelign Worku M Associate Professor walelignworku@yahoo.co.uk Advise and carry out Agronomy/Crop Physiology activities 5% Geda Nigatu Regassa M Associate Professor Nigatu Regassa <negyon@yahoo.com Carry out activities related to population development and gender studies 5% Beyene Gete Tsegaye F Assistant Professor Gete Tsegaye <tuge62@yahoo.com Carry out gender-related activities. Home economics/nutrition 5% Anniye Endalkach ew W/Meskel M Assistant Professor Endalkachew Welde-meskel <ewm_endalkachew@yahoo.com Advise and carry out Rhizobia Inoculation activities 5% Ameda Towordros Teffera M Assistant Professor Tewodros Teferra <dagted@gmail.com Advise students and works on socioeconomic aspects 5% 28

29 Getenesh Berhanu F Lecturer geteneshbt@yahoo.com Involve in nutrition aspect of the project 5% Organization 2(name, type of organization, country). Family name Given name Male (M) / Female (F) Job title Address (mailing address, phone number, fax, ) Project role/responsibility (please indicate if lead PI and identify if consultant) % of time committed on this project Henry Carol F Associate Professor College of Pharmcy & Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan Saskatoon, SK, S7N5C9 Lead P.I, joint research administration, collaborate in carrying out baseline studies, including household food security and dietary assessment, participatory methods, socio-demographic assessment and gender and jointly conduct related participatory interventions 20% Tar an Bunyamin M Assistant Professor Bunyamin Tar'an <bunyamin.taran@usask.ca Pulse crop breeding; Advice on field trials including experimental design, germplasm/variety selection and trials, varietal response to Zn fertilizer, data collections and data analysis 10% Zello Gord M Professor Gordon Zello <Gordon.Zello@usask.ca Walley Fran F Professor Fran Walley <Fran.Walley@usask.ca Whiting Susan F Professor Susan Whiting <Susan.Whiting@usask.ca 29 Advise and participate in health and dietary assessment relating to chickpeas, haricot beans and non-legume staples at the household; advise on analytical methods,. Provide advice on the design and implementation of pulse crop inoculation and fertilizer studies.. Advise and participate in health and dietary assessments relating to chickpeas, haricot beans athousehold level and advise on characterizing micronutrient levels phytate content of food, andcollaborate on 5% 5% 5%

30 Jaffe JoAnn F Professor JoAnn Jaffe <joann.jaffe@uregina.ca appropriate interventions Advise, participate and analyse baseline studies of social and cultural aspects of Agro-food systems, and food (in)-security. Collaborate on protocols for participatory methods. Advise and participate in data collection and analysis of local practice/knowledge and political economic research. 15% Kaler Amy F Associate Professor Amy Kaler (akaler@ualberta.ca) <akaler@ualberta.ca Advise and participate in the development of baseline research instruments, especially household survey instruments, semi-structured interview guides, household biographies and life history studies. Advise and carry out analysis of baseline household survey, information and prepare gender framework. 10% Tyler Bob M Professor Robert Tyler <bob.tyler@usask.ca Advise and carryout activities relating to food processing, crop utilization, micronutrient lab, and pulse knowledge transfer 8% Grevers Mike M Adjunct Professor/Consult ant Mike Grevers <mcg541@mail.usask.ca Provide advice on the design and implementation of pulse crop inoculation and fertilizer studies.. 5% Kimaro Anthony Assistant Professor anthony.kimaro@usask.ca Advise on soil micronutrient and biofortification 5% 30

31 Annex 3: Performance measurement framework Performance measurement indicators (PMI) Title Improving Human Nutrition in Ethiopia through plant Breeding and Soil Management No. Team Leader Carol Henry (U of S) Sheleme Beyene (HU) Country/Region/ Institution Ethiopia University of Saskatchewan and Hawassa University Budget $1,600,000 Duration 2 ½ years (March 30, 2012 to August 30, 2014) Expected results Indicators Baseline Data Targets Data Sources Data Collection Methods Frequency Responsibility Ultimate Outcome (Long -term) 1) Improved reduction in malnutrition deficiencies through households food nutritional security 2) Increased sustainability of local agroecosystems a) Number and percentage of individuals and households stratified by gender and socio-economic groups having a balanced diet in the project area (peasant associations) b) Number and percentage of meals per day per person in households c) Percentage of children under 5 with adequate weight-for-height d) Number and percentage of farmers growing highyielding and micronutrientrich pulse crop e) Number and percentage of farmers using inoculated pulses in crop rotations and intercropping a) Number and percentage of individuals having a balanced diet in 2014 and beyond b) Number of meals per day per person in 2014 and beyond c) Number of children with adequate weightfor-height beyond 2014 d) Number of farmers in study area growing pulse crops e) Number of farmers in study area inoculating pulse crops a) Households in study sites (peasant associations) b) Households in study sites (peasant associations) c) Households in study sites (peasant associations) d) Farmers in the study sites (peasant associations) e) Farmers in the study sites (peasant associations) 31 a) Men, women and children b) Men, women and children c) Men, women and children d) Field evaluations e) Field evaluations a) Household surveys, focus group discussions, interviews with public health practitioners b) Household surveys, focus group discussions, interviews with public health practitioners c) Household surveys, focus group discussions, interviews with public health practitioners d) Survey of farmers and of local Bureau of agriculture specialists e) Survey of farmers and of local Bureau of agriculture specialists a) At the end of the project and beyond b) At the end of the project and beyond c) At the end of the project and beyond d) At the end of the project and beyond e) At the end of the project and beyond a) HU and U of S & partners, with additional funding b) HU and U of S & partners, with additional funding c) HU and U of S & partners, with additional funding d) HU and U of S & partners, with additional funding e) HU and U of S & partners, with additional funding

32 f) Extent of soil health improved and land rehabilitation f) Existing soil and land characteristics and extent of degradation f) Farmers in the study sites (peasant associations) f) Field evaluations f) Survey of farmers and of local Bureau of agriculture specialists f) At the end of the project and beyond f) HU and U of S & partners, with additional funding Expected results Indicators Baseline Data Targets Data Sources Data Collection Methods Frequency Responsibility Intermediate outcome (Medium Term) 1) By 2014, implementation strategies and studies will reveal actual number of men and women adopting new technologies 2) Increased use of micronutrient rich pulses in household diets and nutritional intervention education on complementary feeding practices help mitigate hunger and malnutrition 3) Increased pulse production, help tackle malnutrition, improve food security and enhance soil quality and environment 4) Produce specific dissemination a) Number and percentage of farmers in the study areas growing high-yielding pulse crops b) Number and percentage of households adopting improved processing strategies for improved micronutrient intake Number and percentage of farmers participating in scheduled interventions including improved nutrition knowledge and use of biofortified crops c) Data collected from field experiments such as increased crop yield, micro and macronutrient content, protein content d) Nutrition education material (manuals, recipes, a) Current agricultural practices adopted by of farmers (male and female) in the study area b) Knowledge, practices and beliefs of farmers and farming households relating to pulse crop production, processing, preparation and consumption c) Knowledge, practices and beliefs of farmers and farming households relating to pulse crop production d) Traditional recipies from Ethiopian a) Local farmers and farming households in the study site b) Local farmers and farming households in the study site c) Farmers and farming household from the selected area d) Local farmers and farming households a) Farmers and farming households participating in interventions in selected areas b) Farmers and farming households participating in interventions in selected areas c) Farmers and farming households participants d) Farmers and farming a) Household surveys, interviews b) Household surveys, interviews c) Soil and plant analysis including various chemical analysis such as macro and micronutrients, crop yield a) On-going monitoring measuring linked to pre-post interventions b) On-going monitoring measuring linked to pre-post interventions c) On-going monitoring measuring linked to pre-post interventions d) Household survey d) On-going monitoring a) Project team members (HU & UofS)- faculty researchers, PhD students b) Project team members (HU & UofS)- faculty researchers, PhD students c) Project team members (HU & UofS)- faculty researchers, PhD students d) Project team members (HU & 32

33 tools adapted to the needs of farmer groups and development partners flyers) for promoting healthy eating household e) Community based nutrition manuals, secondary literature search in the study site households participants measuring linked to pre-post interventions UofS)- faculty researchers, PhD students Expected results Indicators Baseline Data Targets Data Sources Data Collection Methods Frequency Responsibility Immediate outcome (Short Term) 1) Gender framework & research activities integrated into project activities 2) Analysis, intervention strategies & biofortification for micro- nutrient rich food to improve nutrition and health Synthesis of primary data on gender, age and other socioeconomic characteristics, stratified by gender Micronutrient and anti-nutrient levels of pulses (chickpea, broad beans, lentils) determined by lab analysis Secondary data compiled from previous studies (MSc, PhD studies, recent survey of Hu Technology villages, market & consumer studies, gender studies) and gaps analyzed Samples of local and improved varieties of chickpeas, broad beans, & lentil obtained from study sites sample of chickpea obtained from varieties grown in Canada for comparison Local farmers in the study sites, peasant associations, government Study sites, local farmers in the peasant association Men and women farmers, peasant associations, government personal Results from lab analyses Surveys of individual and households; health professionals, and of local Bureau of Agriculture Specialists. Field observations Standard laboratory procedures On-going MSC & PhD studies HU faculty and staff. UofS faculty MSC & PhD studies HU faculty and staff. UofS faculty 3) Improved nutrition education, healthy eating practices, and value- added training in household food processing 4) Best-fit agricultural knowledge of agro-food based system, pulse-value chain analysis and constrains for livelihood improvement Analysis of soil samples for physical and chemical Availability of and access adequate pulse food supply, health and dietary practices at the household level Initial physico-chemical analysis of soils Local farmers and households in the study sites Soils of the selected sites Men and women farmers, peasant associations and government personals Results of lab analysis Surveys of individual and households; health professionals, and of local Bureau of Agriculture Specialists Field experiments, soil and plant analysis On-going MSC & PhD studies HU faculty and staff. UofS faculty HU faculty and students 33

34 technologies and innovations for pulses validated 5) Technologies for pulse varieties and crop management options developed 6) Create strategic alliances for facilitating dissemination of pulse production technology properties especially micronutrient deficiency Extent of response of different pulse genotypes to Zn and Fe. Methods for micronutrient enrichment for pulse crops Number of manuscripts relating to gender, age and other SES characteristics, stratified by labor, land, authority and consumption developed and findings disseminated to stakeholders determined Germplasm identified and Zn and Fe deficient sites selected Level of interaction between farmers, present associations, agriculture bureau, NGOs and other extension agencies New chickpea varieties introduced in farming system Men and women farmers and participating associations Crop yield, Zn absorption and deposition in seeds Meetings, interviews, questionnaires Field experiments, seed and plant analysis Faculty from HU and UofS and PhD student Survey and meetings On-going Faculty from HU and UofS 34

35 ANNEX 4 - OUTPUTSTABLE Please ensure that IDRC has copies of all outputs produced by the project. Each output submitted to IDRC must include a title page, abstract, and keywords (see Annex 4) This table should be updated on a regular basis and submitted with each interim report. Project Title and number: Improving Nutrition through plant breeding and Soil Management /2 Types of Outputs Title / Reference & Summary Description Date of the output Primary authors/ organizations responsible Peer reviewed article(s) Workshop/presentations Research reports Newspaper article Bulletin, newsletter, pamphlets, brochures Databases (GIS, and New Global Institute to help food and nutrition security in Ethiopia 27 December, 2012 Carol Henry and Sheleme were interviewd by news media 35 Was this output disseminated? If yes, how? Please indicate what type of audiences have been reached (i.e. policy makers, researchers, others? Location of the output Please provide weblink if applicable

36 other information systems) Policy briefs Books / Book chapters Thesis, essay, paper Conference proceedings, speech, slide presentation Manual, curriculum, training material Photograph, film Scoping study, exploratory report Evaluation report Websites, social media (Facebook, twitter), multimedia (Youtube, others) Media coverage. Articles in local or international media Others y_in_ethiopia/cifsrdcall3/cifsrf_call_3/home.html 36

37 ANNEX 5 GRADUATE STUDENT INFORMATION Surname Given name Gender Organization Department Country of research Degree Title of Thesis Date expected Ayalew Abay M HU Soil Science Ethiopia PhD Micronutrient status of Soils and Effects of Zinc and Iron Fertilization on Haricot Bean Production in Some selected areas of Ethiopia Hidoto Legesse M HU Agronomy Ethiopia PhD Genetic and agronomic approaches for micronutrient enrichment in chickpea Abebe Hiwot F HU Nutrition Ethiopia/Canada PhD Phytate and Micronutrients in crop processing and preparation: addressing food security in Southern Negash Cannaan F HU Nutrition Ethiopia MSc Effect of Broad bean based complementary food on nutritional status of young children in Hulla, Titecha Kebele Kabeta Alemneh M HU Nutrition Ethiopia MSc Barriers to and acceptance of pulse use by families and by communities (differing in usual usage of pulses and other crops) in a qualitative or quantitative way Manaye Teshale M HU Nutrition Ethiopia MSc Survey of Local Nutrition Practices in Southern region, Ethiopia- with the goal of identifying best practices in food processing, preparation (people, customs, rituals, etc.) Mulualem Demmelash M HU Nutrition Ethiopia MSc Effects of nutrition intervention on promoting pulses crops in complementary feeding practices Abebe Frezer F HU Nutrition Ethiopia MSc Efficacy of nutrition education materials targeting pulses consumption at houses hold level in low income mothers in Halaba Huletegha Choroko Dansa Roza F HU Nutrition Ethiopia MSc Effect of nutrition education of female farmers on pulse consumption and nutritional status of preschool children in Taba Kebele of demote Gale Woreda, Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia Tafese Elizabeth F HU Nutrition Ethiopia MSc Effect of nutrition education on pulses for household consumption, dietary practices and food security in pulses producer farmers in Taba kebeles Damot Gale Woreda Southern Region Ethiopia Asrat Rahel F HU Nutrition Ethiopia MSc Comparative study between pulses users and non pulses users in relation with nutritional status and house hold June Degree completion CIFSRF project 2014 June Degree completion CIFSRF project 2014 June Degree completion CIFSRF project 2014 June 2013 June, 2013 June, 2013 June,

38 food security among preschool children s, Taba kebeke, Damot Gale Woreda, Wolayita Zone, southern Ethiopia Fikru Sara F HU Nutrition Ethiopia MSc Assessment of food security and nutritional status 2014 among pulse user and non pulse user preschool child: A comparative community based cross-sectional study Tesema Kebebush F HU Food Science Ethiopia MSc Proposal in progress 2014 Abera Rediet F HU Agronomy Ethiopia MSc Proposal in progress 2014 Tadesse Meseret F HU Gender & Family Ethiopia MSc Proposal in progress 2014 Studies Bezabih Yenealem F HU Gender and Family Ethiopia MSc Proposal in progress 2014 Studies Berhau Hiwot F HU Rural Development Ethiopia MSc Proposal in progress

39 Annex 6. Initial soil analysis for zinc availability Location Farmer Site ph Zn( mg/kg soil) Remark Sample No. = (a-b) *40/20*mcf * 1 Wol/ita Jorge Chama Taba Duko Adema Taba Berhanu Bey. Taba Mamo Gidebo Taba Zn rate trial 5 Shiferawu Sh. Taba Genetic response Shita Gidebo Taba 6.29 Application strategies 7 Silas Shita Taba Yosef Mamo Taba Halaba Hajimudin1 2 nd Choroko Zn rate Hajimidin 2 2 nd Choroko 6.53 Application strategies 11 Mohamed Sani 2 nd Choroko Onstation (BoA) Near BoA 7.02 Genetic response 12 site 0.98 Butajira Workineh A. Jolle 1 st 6.86 The farm was not ready Amare Tesfaye Jolle 1 st 7.36 The farm was not ready 15 Maregn M. Jolle 1 st Not ready 16 Negese Ts. Jolle 1 st Genetic response Mebrate Ts. Jolle 1 st 7.22 Zn rate & app.strategies 18 Tilahun Dem. Jolle 1 st Ziway On station Onstation Alage College G-4 G-4 farm Mcf= moisture correction factor, AA= atomic absorption spectrophotometer; a= zinc concentration in the sample solution, b = zinc concentration in the blank; s= sample weight of air dry soil 39

40 Figure 1. Project Conceptual Framework Agro-Systems approach: From Field to Fork Soil quality and management Crop diversification Genetic diversity Bio availability Food Processing Bioavailability System wide analytical tools -Value-chain analysis -Gender analysis Linking soil & Plant nutrition -Monitoring & evaluation Human health & Nutrition Environment Reducing the burden of fertilizer & chemicals Environmental quality; soil quality, biological nitrogen fixation, reduced land degradation Gender stratification Socio-economics Stakeholders Bureau of Agriculture, Bureau of health, NGO s, EHNRI Household food & Nutrition security [Increased production of the new pulse crops, consumption improved intake of macro 7 micro nutrients] 40

41 Figure 2: Nutrition Outcome Pathways Gender sensitive agriculture interventions Increased household income through sales of pulses as cash crops (market & consumer studies, value chain) Participation in agriculturalnutrition intervention Agricultural practice (plant breeding, biofortification improved seed & Increased production of pulse, incl., nutrient rich pulse crops More pulse, improved diet quality &diversity of households, especially women &children Improvement nutritional status and health of communities, especially of reproductive age women and young children Nutrition education Improved food processing technologies & preparation, consumption Enterprise processing pulse food e.g. complementary foods Behaviour change outcome 41

42 Figure 3. Illustration of the whole process from site selection to harvesting for Taba Activities from site selection to Cickpea havesting at Taba 42

43 Map of the Research sites in Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Regional state Jole andgegna & Ele Huletegna choroko Taba Oromiya-Zeway Hula Awasa Zuriya

44 Symposium at University of Saskatchewan 44