Cluster-based large-scale demonstration of improved sorghum technology through irrigation was done with the objective of demonstrating and popularizing improved sorghum technology in the Bena-Tsemay district of the South Omo zone. A total of 17 agro-pastoralists participated in the demonstration, and one pastoral and agro-pastoral research and extension group containing 27 members was established. The demonstration took place on a 10-hectare plot of land in a cluster base. Participatory training was given to all participants on important agronomic practices and management measures. Researchers applied all the recommended agronomic and management practices with close supervision and follow-up. Both qualitative data like agro-pastoral perception and agronomic data, and quantitative data like grain yield were collected and analyzed. Cost-benefit ratio was also calculated to see the economic feasibility of sorghum production. The result indicated that the mean grain yield of sorghum production was 2.65 tons per hectare and the net gain (profit) from sorghum production was 55975 Birr per hectare which is an initiative for producers to continue the production. And also, the benefit to cost ration of 1.6:1 indicates that sorghum production is an economically feasible activity in the area. Pastoral perception and feedback were also collected from participants. Most participants indicated the sorghum (Melkam) variety performed better than their local in terms of yield, early maturity, disease resistance, seed color, and seed size. Thus, further expansion and seed supply by district and zone stakeholder groups to that area is necessary to enhance sorghum productivity and thereby ensuring food security.
cluster, demonstration, cost-benefit, production, sorghum, yield, Ethiopia
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