23-08-07 annual report instructions · (abingoye, 2016) produced. reports on extension systems and...

Annual report

project Improving sustainable productivity in farming systems and enhanced livelihoods through adoption of evergreen agriculture in eastern Africa shortened as ‘Trees for food security project’- T4FS

project number FSC/2012/014

period of report July 2015 - June 2016

prepared by Prof Catherine W. Muthuri World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF)

co-authors/ contributors/ collaborators

Drs, Athanase Mukuralinda, Abayneh Derero, Clement Okia, Kiros Hadgu, Joel Buyinza, Phillip Smethurst, Tenge Ngoga (Mr) Claudette Nkurunziza (Ms), Frederic Baudron, Ruth Kinuthia (Ms), Patricia Masikati, Miyuki Iiyama, Bernard Musana, Anne Kuria, Dieudonne Safari, Asseffa Tofu, Awol Asseffa, Evelyn Kiptot, Jeremias Mowo and Fergus Sinclair

Project Annual Report

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1 Progress summary The project registered remarkable progress between July 2015 and June 2016. Project implementation activities have been going on as planned in Ethiopia, Rwanda and Uganda. In Burundi the political unrest in 2015 disrupted implementation of key activities especially led by ICRAF but the situation has improved in 2016 and activities led by ISABU are ongoing. A notable event was a very successful end-of-project review which took place on 15-24 April 2016. The review was carried out in Ethiopia, Uganda and Rwanda and Claudette Nkurunziza the Burundi Project Coordinator, travelled to Rwanda to participate in the review. The team comprised of Dr Ian Nuberg from University of Adelaide, Dr John Okorio from the MDG Centre and Prof Haile Mitiku, UNESCO Deputy Representative of Ethiopia, Australia. Also present were Tony Bartlett and Melissa Wood (ACIAR) and Catherine, Jeremias and Fergus (ICRAF). The team was hosted by the respective ICRAF country representatives (Kiros, Clement, and Athanase) and country project coordinators (Abayneh, Hillary and Tenge). Representatives from WV, CSIRO and CIMMYT attended the review in some of the countries. Overall, the review team was pleased by the high level of success the project had achieved, and the positive impacts that it had on the livelihoods of smallholder farmers. The reviewers also provided comments on Phase 2 project proposal that the team considered in developing the proposal. The project has also enjoyed good relations and support from the Australian High Commission offices in Kenya; H.E John Feakes visited ICRAF on 11th November 2015 to learn more about ICRAF work, Australian support to ICRAF and the impact of this support. Another remarkable achievement was the approval by ACIAR of a second phase preliminary proposal of Au$ 5M (2017-2021). The full proposal has already undergone external review and is ready for submission for in-house review on 18 July 2016. The project has reached 23228 people by mid April 2016 through scaling up activities like participatory trials and country specific strategies, Rural Resource Centres (RRCs), and trainings (Muthuri et al. 2015). See more details on project webpage http://www.worldagroforestry.org/project/trees-food-security-improving-sustainable-productivity-farming-systems-and-enhanced Summarized below are achievements of each WP. Work package 1 Various reports and journal articles are posted on project website. They include the release of a new smartphone application in the vegetationmap4africa (http://vegetationmap4africa.org/6_About.html#partners WFC. In Burundi report on the local knowledge study was completed (attached) and M.Sc. thesis on market survey (Abingoye, 2016) produced. Reports on extension systems and seed and seedling systems in Uganda (Buyinza, et al 2016) were finalized. A journal paper on Understanding patterns of tree adoption on farms in semi-arid and sub-humid Ethiopia (Iiyama et al., 2016) was published in Agroforestry Systems Iiyama et al. (2016). DOI 10.007/s10457-016-9926-y Work package 2

http://www.worldagroforestry.org/project/trees-food-security-improving-sustainable-productivity-farming-systems-and-enhanced



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Data collection on various participatory trials across the four countries is ongoing (reports attached). On-farm trials in Ethiopia and Rwanda have reported positive impact of trees and their management on water and crops (Asseffa et al. 2016, Baudron et al. 2016 and Ngoga et al. 2016). Seven researchers in Uganda were trained on Sap flow operation and installation. Biophysical trials on impact of crop genotype and tillage management on tree-crop interactions by CIMMYT have been undertaken (Baudron et al. 2016). An APSIM Agroforestry Systems Model was developed at CSIRO-ICRAF workshop in Australia and simulation on a few trees species and crops carried out (see pager attached). A journal paper reviewing agroforestry modeling was published (Luedeling et al. 2016). Construction of wells for individual farmers, installation of irrigation system at the RRC and long-term experiment were done in Ethiopia. Work package 3 Market studies in Burundi have been carried out by a Burundi MSc student registered at JKUAT University. She is now finalizing her thesis. Different technologies have been adopted by farmers e.g. the use agroforestry stakes form Acacia agustissima for climbing beans in Rwanda, preferred for their durability and reuse across seasons. The RCC in Mbale is complete and operational (Uganda report). Data on tracking in the RRCs and participatory trials are ongoing. Work package 4 The project M&E plan consisting of data collection cycles and reporting mechanisms is being implemented to provide guidance for future outcome and impact monitoring. This is well aligned with the AIFSRC M&E plan. Data hosting will be discussed with NaFFORI in the 2016. Work package 5 Policy briefs for Rwanda and Ethiopia have already been produced and are to be interpreted into local languages for distribution to all stakeholders (attached). Eight PhD students currently attached to the project and 3 MSc students have successfully graduated (see thesis on project website).

2 Achievement against activities and outputs/milestones Objective 1: To characterize target farming landscapes and systems and develop tools for matching species and management options to sites and circumstances

No Activity Outputs/ milestones Completion date

Progress

1.1

Establish socio-economic and biophysical baselines and understand barriers to adoption of farm trees

Assessment of density and diversity of extant tree cover on farms, and seed/seedling delivery systems.

E&R Yr – 1, Mo – 6; U&B Yr 3, M 6

In Burundi nursery surveys and seed and seedling system surveys were concluded and the master‟s student has completed his thesis and project report. In Uganda a key informant survey on extension systems and seed and seedling systems was done. Reports and theses on project website (Students theses: Dawit, 2014, Yemenzwork, 2014, Havyarimana, 2015. Uganda KIS extension report Buyinza et al, 2015. Uganda KIS seed and seedling systems report Boaz et al, 2015).

Assessment of F. albida recruitment in Mojo (including the development of allometric relations to predict the age of tree)

Ethiopia Y3 M 8 to the end of the project

Under implementation with partnership with the Wondo Genet College of Forestry

Databases and reports on food security, health and nutrition, and household income

12; U&B Yr 3, M 12

The baseline scoping for Uganda and market survey was completed by May-June 2014, while the local knowledge study in Burundi was completed in April 2015. (Burundi local knowledge report- Njenga et al., 2015 on website)


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1.2 Match species and management options to sites and circumstances

Spatially explicit guidelines on initial best-bet tree species and management options

E & R Yr 1 Mo 6; B & U Yr 3 Mo 6.

The Burundi vegetation map has been fully integrated into the VECEA map and its species selection and distribution tools made available from URL www.vegetationmap4africa.org Spatially Explicit Analysis for Improved Targeting of Interventions was made, including identification of erosion hotspot mapping across action sites. (Report: Winowieck et al, 2016). Suitable tree species selection tools for Rwanda and Ethiopia (Kuria et al. 2016a&b have been developed


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Objective 2: To generalise predictions of impacts of trees species and management at field, farm and landscape scales, on crop productivity, water and nutrients to inform scaling up to improve food security and reduce climate risk.


Progress

2.1 Extensive participatory and quantitative assessment of the performance of tree species and management options used in scaling up.

2.1.3 An interim report from the surveys at Yr. 2 Month 8.

E & R Yr. 2 M8- end

Protocols for tracking the participatory trials have been developed and collection of socio-economic data and biophysical data in both Rwanda and Ethiopia is ongoing. The aim is to determine the effectiveness of these technologies and understand farmers‟ perceptions to scaling up options. The information is contained in country reports. The final report will be availed by November 2016

2.2.2 Papers and databases from controlled experiments and observations designed and conducted to measure impacts of trees on crop yield, water resources, soil health and N and P balances in tree crop systems.

E & R Yr2 M12- end of Project

Four (4) long term trials two in each country were established in Rwanda and Ethiopia and data collection, analysis and report writing is ongoing ( Derero et al, 2016; Mukularinda et al, 2016). Tree crop water interactions experiments from controlled on-farm experiments in Ethiopia and Rwanda with pruning treatments for Faidherbia albida and Grevillea robusta respectively are also going on well (Asseffa et al. 2016, and Ngoga et al. 2016). Biophysical experiments set up by CIMMYT also include Cordia africana and Alnus acuminata but without tree pruning treatments (Baudron et al. 2016). Buyinza et al. 2016) The first five papers from this work are being developed for publication this year. Preliminary results on tree crop water interactions have been presented at the IUFRO congress, Forestry congress and ICRAF Science weeks in September 2015.


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Experiment set up on impact of trees on water resources and crop performance in Uganda G×E×M interactions with respect to heat stress and water use efficiency AND Assessment of the productivity and sustainability in a coffee-Tephrosia system in Rwanda

U Yr. 3 M 11 to end of project E & R Yr2 M12- end of Project

Sap flow training and installation was carried out in Uganda in October 2015 after funds for this component were availed after the project mid-term review. Measurements are ongoing (Cordia africana and Albizia coriaria) and preliminary findings are presented in the Uganda report (see Uganda report: Buyinza, 2015). Experiments on G×E×M experiment going on okay and three manuscripts are under preparation (see CIMMYT report: Baudron et al, 2016).

2.2.3 Report and database of predictions of crop yields in present and future tree-crop scenarios and parameterised, combined tree-crop simulation models (APSIM and WaNuLCAS) used to calculate them

E & R Yr. 2 M 6 up to Yr4 M6 Ongoing

Trainings on the use of the APSIM model have been undertaken and more on the training on application of Agroforestry model continues in 2016. A manuscript by Luedeling et al., 2016). Field-scale modeling of tree–crop interactions: Challenges and development needs Agricultural Systems 142: 51-69 CSIRO/ ICRAF APSIM agroforestry workshop, Toowoomba, Australia, developed the APSIM Agroforestry Systems Model. Model has been validated using data sets from Australia, Kenya and Malawi (Smethurst et al, 2016). Predictions were adequately simulated. Project specific simulations commenced in 2015 and are still in progress.

2.2.4 Outreach material on ecological processes and Simple EXCEL-based decision-support tools will be developed from outputs obtained from simulation models (e.g. APSIM) under different scenarios of production.

E & R Yr3 M12 To End

This is ongoing. A two pager modeling document is available on the website (Smethurst et al, 2016) and is available on project website. Excel based decision support tools should be available by the second half of 2016.


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2.2.5 Training on simple rain water harvesting technologies done Simple rainwater harvesting/water conservation technologies implemented in Melkassa

Year 3 M12 to end

A rapid Assessment of potential water harvesting interventions to support the agroforestry activities in Ziway, Ethiopia was held at the end of July 2015 (Murithi et al., 2016). Ground water prospecting and construction of wells and upgrading existing ones was carried out in February 2016. The draft report is under review and the final one should be ready by end of April 2016.


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Objective 3: To develop effective methods and enabling environments for scaling up and out adoption of trees on farms


Progress

3.1 Develop efficient tree germplasm supply systems

3.1.1 National seed and seedling subsectors analysed from characterisation data and stakeholder workshops (see 1.1.2 above) and reports produced

B & U Yr3 M9 In Burundi nursery surveys and seed and seedling system surveys were concluded and the Masters students‟ thesis produced (Havyarimana, 2015). In Uganda a key informant survey on extension systems and seed and seedling systems was done in 2015 (Boaz et al, 2015, Buyinza et al, 2015 ;)

3.1.2 Establishment of RRC in Uganda

E & R Yr 2 M 5 U Yr 3 M 9

Construction of RRC in Bako Tibe –Ethiopia will be completed by end of July 2016. In Uganda, the central tree nursery in Mbale was upgraded to an RRC in 2015. It hosts a nursery, demonstration plots and a training unit. ( Okia et al., al 2016) Several nurseries have been established in Burundi

3.1.3 Designs and business models for alternative seed/seedling supply systems for use in national scaling programmes including rural resource centres, satellite nurseries, genebanks and motherblocks prepared and implemented

E & R Yr4 M6 The 5 RRCs (in Ethiopia, Rwanda and Uganda) and 3 satellite nurseries have been established for the supply of planting materials. Development of different business is presented in the RRC fact sheets posted online models is on-going (Mekuria et al 2016, Mukularinda et al. 2016 and Okia et al 2016)

3.1.5. Report on developing efficient germplasm support systems for partner government

B & U Yr4 M6 Ongoing, will be completed by December 2016


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3.2 Identify, test and promote effective extension methods for reaching farmers in different contexts

3.2.1 Report on different extension methods and their suitability for different contexts, materials and messages in the evergreen agriculture domain.

E & R Yr1 M6 U & B Yr3 M 6

Key informant surveys on extension systems in Burundi and Uganda were undertaken in March/April 2015. Reports are available on the ICRAF web page (Kinuthia et al, 2015; Buyinza et al, 2015)

3.2.2 Different extension methods tested and compared

U & B Yr 3 M12 Different extension methods such as the use of champion farmers, RRCs, demonstration plots sensitization meetings, are being used in different countries. The methods are complementary.

3.2.3 Community of practice with network of users applying and evaluating approaches to scaling up established and a communication strategy developed

U & B Yr 4 Extension officers and NGOs are using some of the extension approaches.

3.3 Engage stakeholders to create appropriate enabling environments for

3.3.2 Trainers of farmers trained to impart training in negotiation skills and in identifying market opportunities; Training manuals and training event reports produced

E & R Yr2-Yr 4 U & B Yr 3-Yr 4 E & R Yr 2-Yr 5 U & B Yr 3-Yr 6

Within the RRCs like in Ziway, Ethiopia basic training on market, value addition and entrepreneurship skills has been ongoing and certificate awarded to participants, These trainings will be extended to Bako by November 2016. Work in progress. Simple manuals will be prepared by November 2016 and more advanced ones will be undertaken in phase 2 of the project.

3.3.3. Process documentation for strengthened rural institutions for enhanced collective action to, where appropriate, control livestock grazing and develop quality tree germplasm supply systems

U & B Yr3-Yr4 Work in progress, reports will be completed in November 2016


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3.3.4 Report on lessons learnt from rural institutions

All Yr4-M6 Work in progress, reports will be completed in November 2016

3.3.5 Guidelines on the appropriate balance of community and private sector engagement in different contexts that is required along the tree-crop intensification value chain for farmers to gain market access

E & R Yr2-Yr4 U &B Y3-Yr4

Value chain study conducted in Rwanda and Ethiopia and reports produced for both countries are available on the web (Gyau, 2014). Guidelines preparations will be completed in November 2016. Marketing report on tree products in Manafwa, Uganda by an MSc student was completed in January 2015. Master‟s thesis available on the web (Wilson, 2015). Due to political turmoil in Burundi, marketing study was delayed but data collection is complete and the report and thesis are under preparation.

3.3.6 Report on outcomes from enhancement of value chain to ensure sustained market access for the agroforestry products

E & R Y4-M4 U & B Y4-M8

Work in progress

3.4 Establish effective project communications

3.4.2. Development of Communication materials for all the outputs

Yr3 M 8 Communication materials on the project prepared during the end of project review (See project magazines. Development of more communication materials in all countries on-going and should be reported in November


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Objective 4: To develop databases and tools for monitoring and evaluation of the impact of scaling up and out the adoption of trees on farms.

No Activity Outputs/ milestones

Completion date

Progress

4.3 Conduct regular performance data collection and periodic evaluations

4.3.1 Evaluation reports developed on Social returns and cost benefits of investment by smallholder farmers Tree species selection and RRC Capacity through project activities Effectiveness of scaling up and scaling out activities

E & R – Yr1 - Yr4;

Key evaluation questions developed around project activities and included as part of the M&E strategy. Four (4) evaluation questions selected for early 2016, and short statements are in the process of being prepared to answer these questions.

4.3.3 Final Impact assessment report containing estimates of the impact of the interventions on food security produced

Yr 4 Planned

Assessment questions developed as part of M&E strategy, and the information generated will be used to scale-out the project activities to other countries that are not part of the project and influence policy decisions in the target countries.


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Objective 5: To enhance capacity and connectivity of national partner institutions in developing and promoting locally appropriate options for adoption of farm trees

No Activity Outputs/ milestones

Completion date

Progress

5.3 5.3 Conduct governance dialogue with government / policy institutions

5.3.2. Proceedings of regional and country policy workshops on research findings processed

E & R Yr 3 M6 U & B Yr3 & 4

Country workshops were held in Rwanda and Ethiopia, and a policy brief produced for each country (Hassan et al, 2015a; Hassan et al, 2015b). However, regional workshops component would not be achieved in this phase due to limited budget. This component will be part of the second phase of the project.

5.4 5.4 Strengthen capacity on agroforestry in educational institutions

5.4.2 Six partner scientists engaged and 7 journal papers published

E & R Yr 2 - Yr 4

Students belonging to these institutions have been registered for masters and PhD (6 MSc students and 4 PhD students) with support from the project. Capacity covering aspects in objectives 1, 2 & 3 has therefore been strengthened and training needs identified.

5.4.3 Short courses conducted and modules on tree crop intensification developed

E & R Yr2 M4- Yr4 M4

Training on key components within various WPs has taken place like modeling, sap flow, design of participatory trials and local knowledge. However, no modules have been developed as this would require more structured and greater involvement by University leadership and this will be accomplished in the next phase of the project through ANAFE.

5.4.4 Agricultural and forestry curricula reviewed in participating universities

E&R Yr 3 M10 E & R Yr 4 M 8

This component cannot be achieved in the current project and will require to be led by a body linking with the Universities in the region. This component will be led by ANAFE in the second phase of the project.

3 Project Outcomes and Impacts

3.1 Research Outcomes

Major research outcome from the project include:

Improved understanding of tree crop interactions in different species and contexts through establishment of four long-term tree diversity trials, more than 20 controlled on farm and on-station experiments Over 6,000 farmers have been involved in participatory trials and associated tree planting activities. For example there has been improved crop productivity due to adoption of agroforestry trees such as Acacia angustissima ( by providing stakes of climbing beans in Rwanda)

Enhanced training and supply of quality tree germplasm and creation of income generating opportunities through the establishment of two new RRCs in Uganda and Ethiopia bringing to 5 the RRCs established through the project.

Enhanced tree crop modeling capability using a new version of Australia‟s agricultural production modeling framework (APSIM agroforestry Next Generation) developed through partnership between CSIRO and ICRAF.

Capacity development of national partners undertaking their masters and PhD research programs under the project, and diverse agroforestry trainings for farmers and extension officers

3.2 Scientific impacts

Efficient supply of quality germplasm and training through establishment of two new rural resource Centers (1 in Ethiopia and 1 in Uganda) and nurseries. The RRCs have also provided business opportunities for farmer groups and unemployed youth particularly through grafted fruit trees.

Improved understanding of tree-crop interactions in different contexts. Positive impact of trees and their management on water and crops has been reported (Asseffa et al, 2016, Ngoga et al, 2016 and Baudron et al., 2016).

Enhanced tree crop modelling capability using a new version of Australia‟s agricultural production modeling framework (APSIM agroforestry Next Generation) developed through partnership between CSIRO and ICRAF (Smethurst et al., 2016). The two main crop models needed for this project, wheat and maize, have been released already for public use in APSIM Next Generation. Also the oil palm and a simple pasture model are included (https://www.apsim.info/). The teff and potato models needed for Ethiopia and Rwanda respectively are under development

Improved knowledge on matching and selecting suitable tree species for different contexts through the development of ssuitable tree species selection and management tool for Ethiopia and Rwanda. This is a tool that informs on the various tree species within the study sites, their uses/ benefits/ niches and biophysical characteristics complements the natural vegetation maps as it provides additional information on both Indigenous and exotic species unlike the vegetation maps which only have information on Indigenous and exotic species (Kuria et al., a & b).

Project‟s findings have further informed a larger audience through publication of journal articles as listed below


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Luedeling, E., Smethurst, P. J., Baudron, F., Bayala, J., Huth, N. I., van Noordwijk, M. & Sinclair, F. L. (2016). Field-scale modeling of tree–crop interactions: Challenges and development needs. Agricultural Systems, 142, 51-69.

Iiyama, M., Derero, A., Kelemu, K., Muthuri, C., Kinuthia, R., Ayenkulu, E., ... & Sinclair, F. L. (2016). Understanding patterns of tree adoption on farms in semi-arid and sub-humid Ethiopia. Agroforestry Systems, 1-23.

Fredrick, C., Muthuri, C., Ngamau, K., & Sinclair, F. (2016). Provenance and pretreatment effect on seed germination of six provenances of Faidherbia albida (Delile) A. Chev. Agroforestry Systems, 1-11.

de Dieu Habiyaremye, J., Muthuri, C., Matiru, V., Nyaga, J., Mukuralinda, A., Ruganzu, V., ... & Sinclair, F. (2015). Occurrence and abundance of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in agroforestry systems of Rubavu and Bugesera Districts in Rwanda. African Journal of Microbiology Research, 9(12), 838-846

Tools

Kuria Anne, Yvonne Uwase, Athanase Mukuralinda, Miyuki Iiyama, David Twagirayezu, Maureen Njenga, Jonathan Muriuki, Amini Mutaganda, Catherine Muthuri, Roeland Kindt, Ermias Betemariam, Martha Cronin, Ruth Kinuthia, Felix Migambi, , Genevieve Lamond, Tim Pagella, Fergus Sinclair (2016). Suitable tree species selection and management tool for Rwanda

Kuria Anne, Dawit Samuel, Yemenzwork Endale, Abayneh derero, Miyuki Iiyama, Catherine Muthuri, Kiros Hadgu, Ruth Kinuthia, Ermias Betemariam, Martha Ataa-Asantewaa, Jonathan Muriuki, Roeland Kindt, Kassim Dedefo, Mezgebu Senbeto, Maureen Njenga, Genevieve Lamond, Tim Pagella, Fergus Sinclair. (2016) Suitable tree species selection and management tool for Ethiopia.

3.3 Capacity impacts

The project has had great capacity impacts through uptake of project-initiated technologies among farmers. Through the participatory trials, farmers were apprised and trained on the various multipurpose trees and the benefits of planting them on their farms and in the homesteads. In Ethiopia Grevillea trees have been planted widely within the farms, boundaries and within the homesteads while in Rwanda the pruning of Grevillea has been found to be beneficial for increased maize production (Ngoga et al 2016). Farmers in Rwanda are using Alnus acuminata biomass for improvement of soil fertility for crop growth. Substantial increase in yields has been reported by the farmers. Acacia angustissima trees introduced by the project have been appreciatively planted in Rwanda for control against soil erosion and for provision of stakes for climbing beans. All these technologies were non- operational prior to project‟s intervention. The project has also facilitated establishment of an additional two RRCs during this period one in Uganda and another in Ethiopia in addition to already 3 operational ones (one in Ethiopia and 2 in Rwanda) earlier in 2014 2015 reporting period. These RRCs offer demonstrations on agroforestry technologies, inputs and services to meet farmer‟s needs (e.g. tree propagation i.e. grafting /budding, seed pre-treatment and establishment techniques).They are also hubs for capacity development initiatives such as training on microfinance, marketing and entrepreneurial skills. The RRCs are expected to benefit community members outside the project scope and beyond the project duration.


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Sap flow training and installation was established in Uganda for Cordia africana and Albizia coriaria to better monitor tree crop interactions (water, light, temperature, nutrients) In addition, strengthening capacity of project partners (especially partner‟s scientists undertaking their PhD with modelling component) In APXIM next generation model through modelling workshops

3.4 Community outcomes and impacts

3.4.1 Economic impacts

Improved and efficient delivery germplasm through the establishment of 5 rural resource Centers (2 in Rwanda, 2 Ethiopia and 1 in Uganda) and nurseries to enhance The RRCs also offer training and is a form of business for farmer groups and unemployed youth particularly on grafted fruit trees. The RRCs in Ethiopia and Rwanda have been fundamental in improving farmer livelihoods. A group of 12 members, managing the Batu RRC in Ethiopia have largely benefited through sale of planting materials (seedlings, rootstock, and scions) and vegetables. Between August 2015 and February 2016 RRC activities earned members ETB 99,663 (USD 4,861) from sales of planting materials (seedlings, rootstock, and scions) and vegetables (Mekuria et al. 2016). Karama RRC in Rwanda is managed by a cooperative of 166 members who have largely benefitted from training and tree planting materials and received technical support on various agroforestry technologies. The RRC has earned a total of US$ 2,000 from sale of fruit seedlings (Mukuralinda et al. 2016). The RRC achievements in Mbale Uganda, has also made significant economic impact on with 200,000 seedlings worth US$ 7,629 having being were raised to help farmers and community groups such as the Elgon Women Trust. (Okia et al. 2016). Several individual farmers have reported additional income as a result of project initiatives. In Ethiopia, Kuli Tiki reported an increase in income from sale of Sesbania seeds from trees provided by the project. Samuel (a former casual for the Elgon Trust Women Group who started his own nursery) in Uganda attributed his success in tree nursery management to skills gained from the project and support through polythene tubes. He reported to make up to US$ 300 from sale of tree seedlings. Similarly Mbahingana Ildephose in Rwanda reported significant increase in yields due to incorporation of Acacia angustissima and Alnus acuminata in the farming system.

3.4.2 Social impacts

Due to awareness creation and capacity building, the communities have taken up the culture of not only planting trees but also managing trees. In the three countries (Uganda, Rwanda and Ethiopia) there are over 6000 famers involved in participatory trials trying out different agroforestry options. This interest displays a cultural change. Personal testimonies from champion farmers is also an evidence that they are receiving many farmers request who would want to adopt the technologies these farmers are trying out after seeing the benefits e.g. Carolyn the group leader of Mt Elgon women trust observed that, „courtesy of the project, members earn more income to support their family needs, are smartly dressed and don‟t have to travel long distances to fetch firewood”. On the other hand In Rwanda, Mbahingana Ildephose, a farmer in Nyundo sector who is among those farmers that had resorted to using Napier (Pennisetum purperum) as an alternative to the costly stakes for climbing beans excitedly shared his experience. “I planted Acacia


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augusitissima trees and I have already harvested bean stakes twice! As opposed to Napier, Acacia provides strong stakes for climbing beans to grow with vigor and produce more yields.” In Ethiopia farmers are using fences to protect trees against livestock damage and also manuring to enhance tree growth. The RRCs have created employment opportunities to formerly unemployed members who have reported that the RRCs have provided opportunities of income generation. The provision of water through wells has also had great social impact in semi-arid Ethiopia. Among the farmers that have benefitted from a newly constructed well is Edushe Guye a 65-year-old farmer from Gerbi Village. “I am ecstatic now that I have access to clean water as I will now farm more fruit trees without fear of failure. The well is also serving my neighbours who before had to travel long distances to access water,” Mr Guye beamed with a satisfied look on his face (See ACIAR information fact sheet, impact stories).

3.4.3 Environmental impacts

Positive environmental impacts are evident in Gishwati- Rwanda as a result of planting Acacia angustissima tree species. The trees are fast growing and as a result soil erosion in the area has significantly reduced. On-farm trials in Ethiopia and Rwanda have reported positive impact of trees and their management on water and crops. For instance in Grevillea maize trials in Rwanda an average of sap volumes of 47-63 litres day-1 and 12-21 litres day-1 in unpruned and pruned trees. The corresponding maize grain yields under unpruned and pruned trees was 1441 kgha-1 and 2462 kgha-1 leading to over 71% yield increase maize grain yield, rising from an average of 1.44 t ha-1 to 2.46 t ha-1. (Ngoga et al. 2016). On the other hand in Modjo Ethiopia, average water use of pruned Faidherbia albida was 24 l day-1 compared to 144 l day-1 in unprunned trees during the dry season (January- April), while wheat grain yield was higher under unprunned Faidherbia albida with a yield of 2.2 t ha-1 under the canopy compared to 1.5 t ha-1 away from the canopy (Awol et al. 2016) at the same time. On the other hand shade from Faidherbia trees has been shown to ameliorate high temperatures and increase yield through extending the grain filling period in cereals (Baudron et al., 2016)

3.4.4 Policy impact

By the end of the project in 2016, closer analysis will be done to assess any policy impacts from the project.

3.5 Stakeholder engagement and Communications

The project has put in place robust intra and intercommunication system in place. Internal communication is enhanced through publication of success stories in ICRAF transformations and blogs. Project website plays a significant role in communicating to the external audience. As a result of tremendous success of the climbing beans an article was published in the East African newspaper in March 12 2016. The article is available in the project website. Policy briefs published for Ethiopia and Rwanda have also been useful in informing the policy makers, advocacy and governance systems. Project related publications produced between June 2015 and July 2016 include Stakeholder engagement and Communication at stakeholder level project outputs Hassan et al, 2015. Harnessing Agroforestry in Ethiopia to boost crop productivity & strengthen food security. Ethiopia- Policy Brief- WP 5 Hassan et al, 2015. Harnessing the potential of agroforestry to boost yields and strengthen food security in Rwanda- Policy Brief- WP 5


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Stakeholder engagement and Communication at tactical/operational level project outputs Albert M & Muthuri, M. 2016. The external review of Trees for Food Security project a success- Success story- WP 3 Baudron et al, 2016. Highlights of CIMMYT‟s achievements in the project „Trees for food security' Report WP 2 Buyinza et al, 2016. Trees for Food Security Project Uganda Report Buyinza, J. 2015. Report on Sap flow training and Installation in Uganda- Report- WP 2 Derero et al, 2016. Trees for Food Security Project Ethiopia Report 2012-2016 Derero et al, 2016. Trees for Food Security Project: A Glimpse of Ethiopia- Magazine- WP 3 Havyarimana, D. 2015. A study of challenges and opportunities for tree seedling production in Bugesera and Muruta areas of Burundi- MSc Thesis- WP 1 Luedeling et al, 2016. Field-scale modeling of tree-crop interactions: Challenges and development needs. Agricultural Systems- Journal Article WP 2 Mbugua, S. 2016. Trees boosting bean yields in Rwanda- Success Story- Rwanda WP 3 Mekuria et al, 2016. Batu Rural Resource Centre-Fact Sheet- Ethiopia WP 3 Iiyama et al, 2016. Understanding patterns of tree adoption on farms in semi-arid and sub-humid Ethiopia- Journal Article WP 1 Mukularinda et al, 2016. Trees Playing a Key Role in Food Security and Livelihoods in Rwanda: Highlights from The T4FS Project- Magazine- WP 3 Mukularinda et al, 2016a. Alnus acuminata protocol-Fact sheet- Rwanda WP 3 Mukularinda et al, 2016b. Cyphomandra betacea protocol- Fact sheet- Rwanda WP 3 Mukularinda et al, ACIAR-T4FS project semi-annual Report-Rwanda Mukuralinda et al 2016c. Karama and Karago RRC- factsheet-Rwanda WP3 Muthuri et al, 2016. Trees for Food Security Overview and Achievements Fact sheet WP 3 Muthuri et al, 2016. Trees for Food Security project outputs- Fact sheet- WP 3 Muthuri et al, 2016. Trees for Food Security Project Total Beneficiaries- Database- WP 3 Njoroge, J and Muthuri, C, 2015. Monitoring tree water use in the field: Training template-Tool- WP 2 Nkurunzinza et al, 2016. Trees for Food Security Project Overview in Burundi- Magazine- WP 3 Okia et al, 2016 Mbale Rural Resource Centre Fact sheet- Uganda WP 3 Okia et al, 2016. Trees for Food Security Project, A Glimpse of Uganda- Magazine- WP 3 Smethurst et al, 2016. Trees now part of a global crop modeling framework (APSIM) -Fact sheet- WP 2 Trees for food security Project Tracking Tool 2015-Tool- WP 3 Winowieck et al, 2016. Spatially Explicit Analysis for Improved Targeting of Interventions ICRAF- Report- WP 1 The documents are available on the project page at http://www.worldagroforestry.org/project/trees-food-security-improving-sustainable-productivity-farming-systems-and-enhanced

4 Training and capacity building activities Capacity of staff from research and educational institutions and farmers and extension staff was enriched through various trainings and other capacity building activities as listed below; Uganda

Tam Le Thi (2015). Does knowledge influence practice? Tree planting and /or retention on smallholder farms in Namabya sub-county, Manafwa district, Eastern Uganda. Master‟s Thesis, Bangor University, Bangor, United Kingdom.




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Wilson, M. (2015). Agroforestry tree products, markets and decision making- A grounded theory study of smallholders‟ experience of market participation in Manafwa District, Uganda. Master‟s Thesis, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.

Nursery operations including grafting and budding techniques by NaFORRI in March 2016

Tree management training by NaFORRI in March 2016

Sap flow training and installation by ICRAF October 2015

PhD study by a student in Bangor University- Combining local and scientific knowledge to identify entry points for agroforestry and design appropriate options for low capacity farming households in East Africa- started in February 2016

Rwanda

Ngoga Tenge PhD student (2014-2017) at University of Rwanda, Study on tree crop interactions in Bugesera Rwanda. Ongoing Research work supported by project and also doubles as current country project coordinator. Tuition by RAB

Bernard Musana PhD student (2014-2017) at University of Rwanda – Ongoing Research work supported by project and also doubles as current country assistant project coordinator. Tuition by RAB

Ann Wanja Kuria PhD on local knowledge in Gishwati. Bangor University (2015-2017), Field work supported by project. Tuition by ICRAF

Allain Ndoli PhD student (2014-2017) under CIMMYT. Registered at Wageningen University. Research work supported by project.

Staff training on Tree-crop water interaction modeling by ICRAF and CSIRO in June 2015 online in November 2015

Capacity development through training of farmers and extension staff in Karago and Karama Rural Resource Centres

Ethiopia

Jeannette Krampien (2015) Faidherbia albida water use and impacts on teff growth in a sub-humid area environment of Modjo Ethiopia. MSC thesis Oregon State University 102 pages

Awol Assefa Ongoing PhD student (2015-2017) at Addis Ababa University by - Impact of Agroforestry Tree Species and Their Management effect On Water Resources and Crop Productivity in East Shewa Ethiopia, - Research work supported by project, contribution to WP2.

PhD study by Tesfaye Shiferaw (2014-2017) - under CIMMYT. Registered at Wageningen University. Research work supported by project

PhD study by Aynalem (2014-2017) - Alwright scholar at Tasmania University. Field work also supported by project

Girmay ongoing PhD student (2014-2017) registered at Mekelle University. Ongoing Research work supported by project and also doubles as current country project coordinator. Tuition by RAB

Training of 247 farmers and 42 extension staff in Batu Rural Resource Centre from March 2016 by ICRAF and Woreda agricultural officers

Burundi

Abingoye, Imacculee Mayugi (2016). Factors influencing small holder farmers‟ participating in timber production and marketing in Burundi: The case of Muruta commune of Kayanza province. Master‟s Thesis. Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), Nairobi, Kenya.


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Havyarimana, Deo (2015). A study of challenges and opportunities for tree seedling production in Bugesera and Muruta areas of Burundi. Master‟s Thesis, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya.

5 Intellectual property

6 Amendments to personnel and project activities Dr Hillary Agaba who was the project coordinator in Uganda was promoted to the position of Director of Research at NaFORRI and now Joel Bonyiza is the current coordinator also from NaFFORI and Woking under Hilary. Amini Mutaganda who was project coordinator in Rwanda was also appointed to the position of Deputy Director in charge of Forestry and Nature Conservation in the Rwanda Natural Resources Authority (RNRA). Tenge Ngoga from RAB is now the new country project coordinator. In Ethiopia, the household survey designed to capture the impact of farmers‟ management on the recruitment and survival of scattered trees on-farm by CIMMYT only took place in Meki. The survey for Mojo and Bako is delayed to early 2016. Construction of RRC in in Bako has been extended to end of July 2016. A shade net and seedling production are already operational. The political situation in Burundi has delayed implementation of key activities led by ICRAF. This is due to travel advisories for international staff. For example, the socio economic baseline could not take place as it required the scientist from ICRAF to go and carry our enumerators training and determine the sampling design on the ground. Therefore this activity has not taken place. However those activities which can be managed by ISABU and supervised remotely from ICRAF are ongoing. For instance, a Burundi national master‟s student registered at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and technology (JKUAT) – Kenya has been already completed the studies and has successfully defended her thesis.

7 Problems and opportunities Problems Political uncertainties in Burundi are negatively affecting project operations and this activities schedule / work plan will be reviewed as the situation unfolds. In Ethiopia, a severe drought affected the Rift Valley and Tigray region, resulting in collection of poor data (limited to microclimate variables and physiological parameters at early stage in most cases) despite repeated replanting. On the other hand in Rwanda frequent droughts in the semi-arid area impact the project outputs particularly in trees growth. Also the unavailability of certain crop germplasm (e.g. Pool 32) and the poor quality of some seeds (e.g. ZM607 from RAB/Kigali store) continues to be a problem. Plans to implement sustainable water management strategies in these dry areas are addressed in one of the key objectives of the second phase of this project. In Uganda, lack of financial assistance or access to credit to help farmers cover agroforestry start-up costs and limited markets for agroforestry products. This component will however be addressed in phase 2 of the project.


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Opportunities The approval of the preliminary proposal of the second phase of this project provided the project team a great opportunity to maximize and consolidate the gains made in the first phase of the project. This will ensure sustainability and enable the beneficiaries and researchers time to realize the full benefits at scale of the knowledge, technologies and facilities provided by for by funding from ACIAR of which we are very grateful. The reviewers and ACIAR staff including the Forestry Program Manager visit to the project sites during the end of project review provided a great forum for them to interact with project beneficiaries and hence provide feedback on aspects that need to be captured in the second phase of the project. Strong partnership has been established between project patters at the country levels which have enabled the project to reach positive impacts on livelihoods improvement of farmers. The RRC model is having positive impact in Rwanda, Ethiopia and Uganda and is undoubtedly seen as a good model from the feedback received both from other organizations/ donors and farmers themselves. For instance in Ethiopia three more RRCs are being built in Atsibi-Wemberta and Tembien in Tigray Bale in Oromia and Hosana by other donors. There is need to optimize their use within the project to reap maximum benefits. The support and dedication from the country partners, (RAB, ISABU, EEFRI and NaFORRI) international organizations and development partners mainly World vision in project implementation is commendable. For instance there is strong collaboration between ICRAF CSIRO and PhD students, in the development of the new APSIM Agroforestry Systems model. This model is also available for use by CIMMYT using the on farm data trials. The project is also benefiting from attaching students from University of Rwanda, Makerere, Addis Ababa, JKUAT, University of Nairobi, and Bangor Universities who are instrumental in sound data collection. There is also strong collaboration between CIMMYT and Wageningen University through exchange programmes for PhD students. There is enormous potential for agroforestry to spread across Rwanda, Ethiopia and Burundi due to the political environment and some enabling policies. For instance in Rwanda the project is fitting well in current Government policy formulated in Economic Development Program Poverty Reduction Strategy (EDPRS) related to the agriculture development and this leads to the Government support the project. The Uganda vision 2040 on reversing deforestation and increasing forest cover and Ethiopia‟s plan to restore and plant trees in 22 million hectare by 2025 to name just but a few all point to project activities alignment to the Governments strategies. ICRAF and EEFRI sub-contract was finalized fund transfer affected. This has expanded ICRAF partners and hopefully we expect that this will enhance flow of funds to the local partners.

8 Evaluative Learning Scaling out activities through farmer collective action has been very successful in creating awareness on agroforestry activities and general project awareness. In Rwanda, Umuganda initiatives have reached over 1500 farmers. These are government initiatives


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in which the project leveraged on to reach a large group of farmers. Moreover a similar appr.ch was used in Ethiopia where the project scaled out through engagement in ongoing community activities. More than 1000 farmers were reached. Key lesson from the implementation activities is the need to form strong partnerships with the existing organizations especially those affiliated to the government. The government has a strong presence within the project sites hence providing a suitable platform for introduction of any new technologies. Determination of community needs is imperative prior to implementing any project activities. This ensures that project technologies are demand based and site specific.

9 Budget All transfers to partners are on schedule.

23-08-07 annual report instructions · (abingoye, 2016) produced. reports on extension systems and...

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