Arba Minch Agricultural Research Center
Located near the scenic Rift Valley lakes, focusing on integrated farming systems and sustainable agriculture practices.
Vision & Mission
Vision
To be a leading research center in integrated farming systems, promoting sustainable agriculture and aquaculture in the Rift Valley region.
Mission
To develop and promote integrated agricultural technologies that optimize land and water use while ensuring environmental sustainability and improved livelihoods.
Key Research Areas
- Integrated crop-livestock-fish farming systems
- Sustainable aquaculture development in Rift Valley lakes
- Horticultural crop improvement and value chain development
- Soil and water conservation technologies
- Agroforestry systems for sustainable land management
Achievements & Impact
- Established 50+ integrated farming demonstration sites
- Developed improved tilapia strains increasing fish yield by 35%
- Released 12 improved horticultural varieties
- Trained 8,000+ farmers in integrated farming practices
- Reduced soil erosion by 60% through conservation agriculture
Research Facilities
- • Aquaculture research ponds and hatchery facility
- • Horticultural research plots and greenhouses
- • Integrated farming demonstration sites
- • Soil and water conservation research plots
- • Fish processing and quality control laboratory
- • Agroforestry nursery
- • Training and conference center
Research Focus Areas
Irrigation Agriculture
Development of efficient irrigation systems and water management practices for sustainable crop production in semi-arid regions.
- Drip irrigation systems
- Water-efficient crop varieties
- Soil moisture management
- Irrigation scheduling
Fisheries Research
Comprehensive fisheries research utilizing the rich aquatic resources of Lake Abaya and Lake Chamo for sustainable fish production.
- Fish breeding programs
- Aquaculture development
- Lake ecosystem management
- Fish processing techniques
Horticulture Development
Research and development of high-value horticultural crops including fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants suited to the local climate.
- Fruit crop improvement
- Vegetable production systems
- Post-harvest technology
- Greenhouse cultivation
Sustainable Agriculture
Promoting environmentally friendly farming practices that maintain productivity while preserving natural resources for future generations.
- Organic farming systems
- Integrated pest management
- Soil conservation practices
- Climate-smart agriculture
Major Achievements & Impact
Research Innovations
Developed 12+ improved fish varieties for local aquaculture
Introduced efficient drip irrigation systems for smallholder farmers
Released 8+ high-yielding horticultural varieties
Community Impact
Trained 5,000+ farmers in modern irrigation techniques
Established 50+ demonstration sites across the region
Increased average farm productivity by 40%
World-Class Research Facilities
Advanced Laboratories
State-of-the-art soil, water, and plant analysis laboratories equipped with modern instrumentation
for comprehensive research.
Climate-Controlled Greenhouses
Modern greenhouse facilities for controlled environment research and year-round crop production studies.
Aquaculture Research Ponds
Specialized fish breeding and research ponds with controlled water systems for fisheries research
and development.
Experimental Fields
Extensive field research areas with various irrigation systems for testing crop varieties and
agricultural practices.