Vermicomposting – a farmer proven technology for soil health in Ethiopia
In the Ziway Shalla sub-basin of Ethiopia, farmers face significant soil fertility challenges due to erosion, soil acidity, and depletion of organic matter. To address this, the project «Improving food security and nutrition in the Sahel by safeguarding Wetlands through Ecological Sustainable Agricultural Water management» (SaWeL) introduced vermicomposting and improved seed varieties. Farmers embraced vermicomposting for its cost-effectiveness and environmental benefits, leading to increased crop productivity. Additionally, restoration efforts and capacity-building initiatives yielded positive outcomes, including enhanced biodiversity, improved soil conservation, and increased community resilience. Overall, the project showcased the potential of sustainable agricultural practices to improve livelihoods and conserve natural resources in the region.