Despite recent setbacks, Elias, a prominent agricultural figure, reports a significant uptake of fertilizer among farmers, with 96 percent opting for its use. This adoption has notably contributed to enhanced yields of staple crops like maize and teff.
In Ethiopia, efforts to bolster agricultural productivity have seen the establishment of compost centers, providing employment opportunities for youth while producing compost manures for sale to farmers.
In neighboring Kenya, Paul Ronoh, the principal secretary at the State Department for Agriculture and the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, highlights initiatives aimed at soil management. A comprehensive soil plan has been developed to educate farmers on sustainable land treatment practices. Additionally, a handbook has been created to offer guidance specifically on managing acidic soils, addressing a critical need in the region.
These measures reflect a concerted effort across East Africa to equip farmers with the tools and knowledge necessary to optimize agricultural output amidst various challenges.