Abstract

About half of all arable land in Somalia is planted to sorghum. Sorghum is well-adapted to the semi-arid conditions prevailing in much of the country, but there is a need to develop high-yielding, drought-tolerant, fast-maturing varieties that are resistant to disease and birds in order to make progress toward self-sufficiency in this staple. This project will improve sorghum cultivars, soil and crop management practices suitable for the different agroecological zones in Somalia, and test the varieties for consumer acceptability and storage quality.

Post-Project Summary

Researchers tested sorghum types from India, Arabia, Texas, and Sudan at the Bonka Agricultural Research Station for yield, adaptability, and drought and insect tolerance. While many exotic types proved to be unsuited for the dry infertile Somalian conditions, researchers identified high yielding Indian breeds. A total of 69 local varieties were also evaluated in field trials. A hybridization program to develop high-yielding and drought-tolerant sorghum was initiated. Crosses between introduced varieties (selected for high-yield potential, early maturity, and resistance to disease) and local types were advanced to the second generation; and multilocational trials to evaluate sorghum varieties across environments were initiated. Researchers studied agronomic practices such as spacing, the importance of weeding, and the use of insecticides. They also assessed bird damage to sorghum, and resistance to smut and insects such as stemborers, midge, and shootflies. Three sorghum types were tested by project staff for the best colour, texture, softness, and taste. Six tasters identified one type, GPR 148, as most acceptable. Research continued in a second phase.

Recipient Institution(s)