ETHIOPIA

Dr. Birhanu AGUMAS (Senior Researcher in System Agronomy) Amhara Agricultural Research Institute

PROJECT: Enhancing nutrient use efficiency and crop yield through data driven decision support tools (DST) outreach, research, and capacity building

Dr. Agumas is working towards strengthened outreach and capacity building for extension agents and district-level agricultural extensionists and promote the dissemination and adoption of 4R-based solutions to address soil fertility decline and enhance agricultural productivity in Ethiopia. He will validate and pilot site-specific fertilizer management tools through the application of data-driven decision support tools (DSTs) tailored to one of the major maize-growing districts. He is aiming at enhanced technical capacity and knowledge amongst key stakeholders—including farmers, extension personnel, and researchers—regarding the effective use of DSTs in the district’s agricultural extension.

Dr. Blessing MAGONZIWA (Lecturer) University of Zimbabwe

PROJECT: Community-based capacity building in soil nutrient analysis and management: A 3-pronged approach

Dr. Magonziwa is seeking to train extension officers on the use of in-field Soil Tool Kit methods for soil analysis and give recommendations for improved soil health management. She will use infield Soil Tool Kit Methods and a Mobile Lab and train farmers on the implications of the results based on their current practices. She wishes to increase engagement with farmers through face-toface community dialogues on soil health and nutrient management. She also plans to create a virtual WhatsApp platform for the training and engagement of farmers, researchers, and extensionists on improved soil health and nutrient management practices.

The African Plant Nutrition Outreach Fellowship Award is supported through APNI’s continued and valued partnership with Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) and OCP Group (OCP S.A.).