IFPRI Launches New Book on Larger Investments in Research

by increasing investment in basic research; adopt new and better technologies; improve input distribution systems; According to a new book launched by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) in Addis Ababa today, the Teff is making a significant contribution to the income and food security of Ethiopians and could offer even more important benefits. "Said Bart Minten, senior researcher, IFPRI, and co-publisher of the book." The expansion of the markets would create opportunities for current and new producers and suppliers. "

Co-edited by Bart Minten, IFPRI researchers, Alemayehu Seyoum Taffesse and Petra Brown, titled "The Economics of Teff: Exploring the Biggest of Ethiopia Cash Crop," examines the potential of teff to improve food security and reduce poverty, and provides recommendations on increasing production and expanding markets for the benefit of farmers and consumers

Teff, a rustic and relatively low-risk crop, contributes significantly to the income of many agricultural producers, in particular Teff represents 22 percent of the country's cultivated area, and about 43 percent of the country's smallholder farmers are involved in its production, according to 2013-14 data. For consumers, teff accounts for up to 12% of all food expenditure, making it the main food crop in the consumer basket of many households.

According to the book, Ethiopian teff production and marketing systems face five challenges: and resilience; selection and scaling up of modern technologies; establish distribution systems adapted to the different needs of the zones; manage the demand for labor and post-harvest operations; and expand access to larger and more diversified markets.

To address each of these challenges, the section's authors propose a series of recommendations such as greater investments in agricultural research and extension; better supply and marketing conditions; better dissemination of information; improve the monitoring and evaluation of the adoption of improved technologies; experiment with mechanisms for the provision of alternative inputs involving different arrangements, actors and payment methods; investments in storage technology; and provide mechanized planters and harvesters. In addition, these measures should be complemented by efforts to strengthen the insurance, credit and labor markets.

"Teff has the potential to attract significant demand in international markets because it is both gluten-free and nutrient-rich.

However, any rapid growth in supply for the market export could be supported in situations where trade-offs with domestic consumption are limited and agronomic and climatic conditions allow increased yields

"Maintain mixed farming systems that combine teff and high yield. Crops with other agricultural activities such as legumes and livestock, while promoting the production and consumption of teff are crucial, "said Taffesse

but the expansion of teff at the expense of Other high-yielding crops would pose challenges to achieving food security nationwide, especially for poor families who can not afford to buy the teff crop.

book, realizing all the potential for increased productivity and promotion requires more public sector leadership, investment and expansion of private sector participation backed by active public policy and public-private partnerships.