Where we Work » Ethiopia
Advancing Wheat
Self-Sufficiency
Grow Further is supporting a breakthrough initiative in Ethiopia aimed at transforming off-season wheat production. Led by Madda Walabu University, the project focuses on smarter irrigation, improved crop management, and the introduction of heat-tolerant wheat varieties. With the goal of enhancing food security and advancing Ethiopia’s national drive toward wheat self-sufficiency, the initiative aims to reach 3.7 million farmers within five years.
Project Summary
Why Wheat, Why Now?
Wheat is a staple food in Ethiopia, but yields are falling short. Recurrent droughts, conflict, and economic instability have pushed over 20 million people into food insecurity. The government launched an initiative to expand wheat farming into the dry season, but success depends on overcoming major challenges.
Project Strategies
Building a Better Wheat System—One Drop, One Link at a Time
Smarter Farming with Water in Mind
The team is testing different irrigation strategies in the Upper Wabi Shebele Sub-Basin to find the most water-efficient, cost-effective approaches. Field trials will pair irrigation methods with heat-tolerant wheat lines and provide practical training for farmers to boost results.
From Field to Market
Beyond research, the project looks at the entire wheat value chain, from post-harvest storage to market access. Stronger links across the chain mean better prices for farmers and more consistent wheat supply for consumers.
Project Expectations
Reaching Millions
If successful, the project is expected to directly benefit over 3.7 million farmers in five years and more than 11 million within 20 years, based on strong projected adoption of new practices.
Project Details
Grow Further’s Role
Grow Further is funding two years of research and outreach, including field trials, irrigation design, variety testing, and farmer capacity-building. This work will lay the foundation for long-term national impact.
Project Team and Partners
- Lead Institution
- Madda Walabu University, Ethiopia
Project Team
- Jemal Abdulkerim Ute, Principal Investigator
- Dr. Tamado Tana, Advisor
- Dr. Feyera Merga Liben, Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, ILRI
- Dr. Tulu Degefu Abdi, ICRISAT Ethiopia
Key Partners
- Ethiopian Ministry of Agriculture
- Agricultural Extension Services
- Local Seed Companies
- Farming Communities
