Participatory Wheat Farmers’ varieties selection for climate resilience, seed handover programme held at Chefe Donsa Community Seed Bank on March 12, 2025.

In his welcoming message, Dr. Melesse Maryo, Director General of the Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute, noted that it is possible to obtain farmers’ varieties that can withstand climate change by utilizing the knowledge of farmers and scientists. He also pointed out that selected wheat Farmers’ varieties should be transferred to other farmers.

General information about the PR-191 project was provided by Dr. Tamene Yohannes, the project coordinator, who spoke about the importance of Wheat Farmers’ varieties and outlined the activities carried out by the project for three consecutive years.

Dr. Basazen Fantahun presented the Participatory Wheat Farmers’ varieties selection process and research activities.  The farmers also explained their experiences in the Participatory Wheat Farmers’ varieties selection process.

Ato Kebede Sheye, Chairman of the Chefe Donsa Community Seed Bank, gave an explanation about the demand and status of black wheat. The woreda and kebele leaders and experts also delivered messages.

Ato Wubeshet Teshome, Crop and Horticulture Biodiversity Research Lead Executive Officer at the Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute, reminded that the research work should be expanded. He also added to take care of Wheat Farmers’ varieties and distribute to the local community.

Dr. Feleke Woldeyes, Deputy Director General of the Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute, delivered a closing message after the program of distributing Wheat Farmers’ varieties to farmers was completed. In his message, Dr. Feleke expressed his satisfaction with the research work that combined research and community knowledge. He added that we will create a way to share your experiences to others.