Summary of Agricultural Report on Jijiga Area
Introduction
The report investigates agricultural potential in the Jijiga area of Ethiopia, focusing on crop production, livestock, and development possibilities. A team visited the area in April 1970, consulting local officials and farmers.
Current Agricultural Activity
Farmers and Tractors
- 125 tractors purchased in last 6 years, leading to expansion of sorghum production
- Most tractors (95) qualify for duty-free fuel
- Average farm size about 180 hectares
Climate and Soil
- Average annual rainfall: 676mm (1952-1969), but highly variable
- Recent years (1966-1969) had much higher rainfall than previous 14 years
- Soils described as fertile but low in available phosphorus
Crop Production
| Crop | Good Year Yield (q/ha) | Average Year Yield (q/ha) | Bad Year Yield (q/ha) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sorghum | 20-25 | 12-15 | 0-4 |
| Wheat | 10-15 | 5-7 | 0-4 |
| Maize | 20-25 | 12-15 | 0-4 |
| Barley | 30-40 | 25-30 | 0-4 |
Key Issue: Serious bird pest problem affecting sorghum and wheat, costing about $40/ha for protection measures.
Potential Developments
Expansion Possibilities
- Current cultivated area: ~33,000 ha
- Potential expansion to 100,000-130,000 ha
- Need to balance with livestock grazing needs
Improvement Opportunities
- Crop varieties and cultural practices
- Pest control (especially birds)
- Livestock development
- Marketing improvements
- Water supply development
- Credit availability
Recommendations
Immediate Priorities:
- Investigate livestock potential and conflicts with cultivation
- Address bird pest problem through technical assistance
- Activate agricultural research station for variety testing and dry-farming techniques
- Improve water supplies and roads
The team recommends against immediate large-scale investment until more research is conducted, particularly regarding rainfall reliability and livestock-crop balance.
Conclusion
The Jijiga area shows significant agricultural potential, particularly for mechanized crop production, but faces challenges with rainfall variability, pest control, and land use conflicts. A cautious approach is recommended, with 2-3 years of research before considering major investment programs.