Scaling of parasitic weed and faba bean gall disease management innovations on faba bean in South Wollo Zone, Ethiopia

Abstract

This report presents key achievements of the CGIAR Sustainable Farming Science Program (Area of Work 4) aimed at enhancing faba bean productivity through integrated management of parasitic weeds and diseases, early generation seed multiplication, and capacity development in the South Wollo Zone of Ethiopia. During the 2024/25 main cropping season, scaling activities were implemented in Dessie Zuria, Kutaber, and Tehulederi districts, building on prior validations conducted under the CGIAR Plant Health Initiative in previous seasons. An integrated management package was demonstrated and scaled on farmers’ fields, combining the use of the partially Orobanche-resistant fababean variety Hashenge (ILB-4358), Fungicide fungicide seed treatment with Noble 25%WP for faba bean gall disease management, two applications of sub-lethal glyphosate at flowering stages, and manual weeding. Prior to implementation, farmers, development agents, and agricultural experts were trained on the proper application of the technologies. A total of 1 ton of Hashengie seed was distributed to 21 host farmers, including three female farmers, for on-farm demonstration and scaling. Field observations and farmer evaluations showed marked improvements in crop vigor, tillering capacity, pod load, seed size, and effective suppression of parasitic weeds mainly Orobanche crenata and faba bean gall disease. The estimated grain yield under the integrated management approach reached 2.8 t ha⁻¹, compared with an average of 0.5 t ha⁻¹ under traditional farmer practices. Two field days involving farmers, extension personnel, researchers, and agricultural experts confirmed strong stakeholder interest and commitment to further scaling of the technology. To support sustainability, early generation seed multiplication of the Hashengie variety was conducted at research stations. In addition, 41 farmers, six kebele development agents, and five agricultural experts enhanced their knowledge and skills in integrated faba bean pest and disease management. Overall, the results demonstrate that the integrated management package is an effective, farmer-accepted, and scalable solution for improving faba bean productivity in Orobanche-prone areas.