Research Article
Pre-extension Demonstration of Banana (Musa spp.) Technology with Supplementary Irrigation under Farmers Management at Gofa and Basketo Zones of Southern Ethiopia
Lakamo Liben, Melese Ejamo, Abebaw Bergena, Anteneh Bulke, Chanako Dane
Middle East Research Journal of Agriculture and Food Science; 51-58.
https://doi.org/10.36348/merjafs.2025.v05i04.001
Although Gofa and Basketo Zones have diverse agro-ecologies that are suitable for different fruits including banana, their coverage is very limited. Based on this, Arba Minch Agricultural Research Center has conducted banana technology from 2022 to 2024. The aim of this activity was variety demonstration and sucker multiplication. Based on banana production potential,1 Kebele selected from each district. A total of 14 farmers were selected for the demonstration based on their willingness to participate in the activity. Training sessions for target and non-target farmers, Development Agents and other stakeholders were provided at both districts. A total of 850 William -01 suckers have been delivered to 14 farmers. The suckers were planted in planting holes of 60 cm deep with 2.5 m and 3 m distances between plants and rows respectively. Data were collected through measurements and Focus Group Discussion. As a result, the average fruit yield from Salayish-01 and Angile-03 Kebele’s were 28.07 and 28.95 tha-1 respectively. Farmers were fetching good income from banana technology. Farmers' perception of the demonstration showed that the technology is viable and in demand by many farmers. Therefore, the extension system of the area should access and scale up William-1 banana to the wider community and similar agro-ecology under irrigation production system.