Characterization and Analysis of Farming System in Guji Zone, Southern Oromia, Ethiopia

Abstract

This activity aimed at identifying and characterizing farming systems with possible intervention mechanisms for identified farming component in the study area. Data was collected from 257 households selected from three agro ecologies.  Two major farming typologies of Pastoral/Agro pastoral and Crop-Livestock mixed farming were identified and further classified based on the major crop grown belt.  Identified crop production constraints of the area were Lack of diversified alternative improved varieties adapted to different agro-ecologies, Lack of integrated crop and pest management technologies, Lack of alternative seed sources (seed producer cooperatives and private seed producers), insufficient knowledge on post-harvest handling. inadequate adoption of improved breeds, the lack and poor quality of available feed resources, and the traditional management approach the zone's main livestock production restrictions were found to be emerging illnesses and a lack of skills and knowledge regarding the deployment of better livestock technologies. Other significant production constraints that affect farmers' livelihoods in the midland areas include deforestation and soil erosion with the expansion of eucalyptus, frequent drought and depletion of soil fertility due to land degradation and termites in lowland areas, and soil acidity in highland areas caused by heavy rainfall. Therefore, improving the production and productivity of crops through the supply of improved inputs capacitates farmers’ awareness of crop management and marketing linkage and Access to improved breed, improved forage, and livestock management intervention should availed for the area in addition to natural resource management.