Sawla Agricultural Research Center
A newly established research center dedicated to advancing agricultural innovation in the Goffa, Basketo, and Melo areas, focusing on sustainable farming practices and improved livelihoods.
Vision & Mission
Vision
To become a premier agricultural research center driving innovation and sustainable development in the Goffa zone and surrounding areas.
Mission
To conduct cutting-edge agricultural research, develop appropriate technologies, and build capacity for sustainable agricultural transformation in the region.
Key Research Areas
- Development of climate-resilient crop varieties
- Sustainable livestock production systems
- Natural resource management and conservation
- Agricultural value chain development
- Capacity building and technology transfer
Achievements & Impact
- Established modern research infrastructure and facilities
- Initiated collaborative research partnerships with international institutions
- Launched community-based seed production programs
- Developed baseline studies for major crops in the region
- Established farmer field schools in 10 communities
Research Facilities
- • Modern laboratory complex under construction
- • Field research stations covering 200 hectares
- • Seed processing and storage facility
- • Livestock research facility
- • Training and conference center
- • Library and information center
- • Demonstration plots for various crops
Research Focus Areas
Crop Research
Development and testing of improved crop varieties, focusing on staples like maize, cash crops like coffee and spices, sesame, root crops, and regionally significant crops such as Enset.
- Climate-resilient varieties
- High-yielding crop development
- Enset research coordination
- Coffee and spice improvement
Livestock Research
Improvement of livestock breeds and management practices, including poultry, small ruminants, and cattle, tailored to pastoral and agro-pastoral communities.
- Breed improvement programs
- Disease resistance enhancement
- Productivity optimization
- Management practice development
Natural Resources Management
Studies on soil fertility, water conservation, and agroforestry to promote sustainable land use and mitigate climate change impacts.
- Soil conservation practices
- Water management systems
- Agroforestry development
- Climate adaptation strategies
Agricultural Economics
Economic analysis and market research to support farmers in making informed decisions and improving agricultural value chains.
- Market analysis
- Value chain development
- Economic impact assessment
- Policy research
Agricultural Extension & Communication
Development of effective communication strategies and extension methods to facilitate technology transfer and farmer education.
- Extension methodology
- Farmer training programs
- Communication strategies
- Technology dissemination
Seed Science Research
Research on seed production, quality control, and storage technologies to ensure farmers have access to high-quality planting materials.
- Seed production systems
- Quality assurance protocols
- Storage technology
- Seed certification processes