Indigenous Agronomic Practices for Coffee arabica Production in Ethiopia

Abstract

The main purpose of this study was to assess the best agronomic practises among coffee-producing farmers in Ethiopia. The study employed a cross-sectional design. Data were collected from farmers and experts through questionnaire, interview and observation in coffee-producing areas of the country. Respondents were selected using criterion-based techniques, and a total of 160 respondents were included in the study. The collected data were organised in a table using percentages. The result showed that there are indigenous practises unique to Ethiopia for coffee production. 94% of farmers in the country have been using organic fertilisers made from the decomposition of coffee bean husks, and 82% of the farmers harvest coffee beans by handpicking. The result also indicates that coffee beans are sufficiently washed to remove waste, and drying has been taking place in direct sunlight on a mashed bed. Almost all farmers used to store beans in cool and dry areas. It was also recommended that during coffee processing, each stage be undertaken in the right manner, with sequential procedures and appropriate local facilities. Besides, since a decade, mixed farming of crops with coffee and pruning of aged coffee trees have been widely practised traditionally. Therefore, the best indigenous knowledge and practises among coffee farmers in Ethiopia shall be institutionalised, and experience sharing among coffee farmers shall be encouraged.