Abstract

Sorghum is the staple cereal for most inhabitants of Somalia, a seriously food-deficient nation. In phase I of this project, the foundations of an enduring national sorghum program were laid. In phase II, researchers will continue work begun in phase I. To improve sorghum production and utilization, they will develop technology acceptable to small farmers in the rainfed growing areas of Somalia. Specifically, phase II will support research to develop high and stable-yielding sorghum cultivars that mature quickly, resist drought, diseases, pests and birds, and are acceptable to Somalian farmers; improve soil and crop management practices; and train local scientists in order to strengthen Somalia's research capacity.

Post-Project Summary

Based on selections made in phase I, eight local lines were evaluated in yield trials. Little yield variation was found between the lines. Four exotic lines were tested in 15 locations and showed promising results. Some hybrid sorghums were produced. High-yielding exotic lines were crossed with local lines. Several sorghum nurseries were used to study stemborer, shootfly, and midge. The best stemborer-resistant varieties were noted. Observation nurseries were assessed mainly for rate of plant maturity, plant height, and seed yield. Multilocational and on-farm trials were initiated in co-operation with other agricultural institutes. Researchers found that phosphate placed near the seed at planting resulted in high yields and uniform stands. A mini-dehuller acquired by the researchers was operated and used for preliminary tests. Researchers began efforts to establish both standardized sorghum cooking methods and a taste panel to determine the acceptability of improved sorghum lines. Study continued in a third phase.

Recipient Institution(s)