CFC Ref: CFC/ICO/40CABI Ref: CF 10002Project Progress Report January to December 2012

Increasing the resilience of coffee production to leaf rust and other

diseases in India and four African countries

Project Progress Report (January to December 2012)

Prepared by:

Dr Noah Anthony Phiri (CABI, Africa)Mr Alphonce Werah (CABI, Africa)Mr. Bernard M. Gichimu (CRF, Kenya)Mr. Stanislas Mushimiyimana (RAB, Rwanda)Mr Dumisani Kutywayo (Chipinge Coffee Research Station, Zimbabwe)Mr Martin Kimani (CABI-Africa)Dr Richard Musebe (CABI, Africa)Dr Nayani Surya Prakash (CCRI, CBI, India) Dr Sharbendu Banerjee (CABI, India)Dr Pascal Musoli (COREC, NACRRI, NARO, Uganda)

Submitted by:

CABI in AfricaP.O. Box 633-00621,Nairobi,Kenya.

PROGRESS REPORT

I. Project Summary:

Title: Increasing the resilience of coffee production to leaf rust and other diseases in India and four African countries

Number: CFC/ICO/40

PEA: CAB International - Africa Regional Centre

Participating Countries & Institutes: India (CCRI, CBI), Uganda (COREC, NACRRI, NARO), Rwanda (RAB), Zimbabwe (Coffee Research Station) and Kenya (CRF).

Starting date: 1st January 2008

Completion date: 31st December 2012

Financing:

Total Project Cost USD 4,014,313Of which,CFC Financing USD 2,970,291Co-financing USD 2,918,720 (Grant) (USD 500,000 contributed

by OPEC FUND)COUNTER PART CONTRIBUTION: USD 1,095,593

Government of India USD 316,573Government of Kenya USD 194,755Government of Uganda USD 194,755Government of Rwanda USD 194,755Government of Zimbabwe USD 194,755

II. Period Covered by the progress report:From: January 2012 To: December 2012

Periods covered by previous reports: NoneFrom: July 2008 To: December 2008From: Jan 2009 To: June 2009From: July 2009 To: December 2009From: Jan 2010 To: June 2010From: July 2010 To: December 2010From: Jan 2011 To: June 2011From: July 2011 To: December 2011From: January 2012 To: June 2012

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Increasing the resilience of coffee production to leaf rust and other diseases in India and four African countries (CFC/ICO/40)

EXECUTIVE SUMMARYComponent I: Identification of needs and resources: rural community responses to CLR

disease and the sourcing and production of coffee genetic material: A range of activities are being written up such as the study of coffee leaf rust and

assessment of economic losses due to leaf rust under experimental conditions in Kenya Maintenance of nursery facilities continued in Kenya, Zimbabwe and India which included

continuous upgrading of facilities. In Kenya, materials collected from forests are being maintained at Coffee Research

Foundation headquarters. Documentation of expected demand for improved varieties continued in Kenya and India,

with demand for Batian and Ruiru in Kenya reaching 78% and 19%, respectively, and the demand for traditional varieties reaching only 3%. In India, demand for seed of improved Arabica selections is expected to be around 5 MT in traditional coffee growing areas.

Homogenous seed production sites were maintained in Kenya, Uganda, Zimbabwe, and India. In Kenya, 2 ha of seed gardens were maintained, while 18 ha were maintained in India. Uganda maintained a total of 1.2 ha of seed gardens. Zimbabwe is maintaining four seed production gardens in different coffee growing regions.

Uganda is also producing tissue culture materials for the seven Coffee wilt disease resistant varieties. A total of 790 plants were given out to nursery operators for developing mother gardens. This has been achieved with co-financing from Uganda Coffee Development Authority.

Farmer field school (FFS) activities continued in most countries, however, some countries are continuing the activity with minimal project support as an exit strategy. In India, FFSs are being extended to non-traditional coffee growing areas where a training of trainers is scheduled for first week of September 2012.

India produced 8.4 MT of seed of improved varieties and gave to 5,746 farmers.

Component II: Conservation and identification of coffee varieties and disease races: Coffee collections were maintained in field gene banks in Zimbabwe, Rwanda, India, and

Uganda. Eleven varieties were conserved in Zimbabwe, while 280 varieties were conserved in India. In Rwanda, 184 accessions were conserved, while Uganda is conserving 20 genotypes.

India characterised 15 rust samples, and Race XXXVII with virulent gene combination of v2,5,6,7,9 was isolated from Sarchimor and Catimor. The activity is concluded in other countries.

Capacity building continued in Kenya (training for PhD and MSc), Zimbabwe (MSc and BSc), Uganda (MSc), and India, which took a Kenyan scientist, Mr Bernard Gichimu through India’s coffee breeding methods and marker assisted selection. In addition, the PEA continued building capacity in relation to project implementation.

A paper entitled “Incidence and severity of coffee leaf rust and other coffee pests and diseases in Rwanda” was published by Joseph Bigirimana et al. in African Journal of Agricultural Research, Vol. 7(26), pp. 3847-3852, 10 July, 2012 (http://www.academicjournals.org/AJAR/PDF/pdf2012/10%20Jul/Bigirimana%20et%20al.pdf).

Although there was no sharing of plant materials, plans were in place to import coffee leaf rust race differential materials from Portugal to the four African countries using the countrys’ existing protocols. However, no couriers are willing to carry live plants from Portugal to any of the African countries.

Component III: Field trials on farm and on station

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India continued with carrying out nursery trials for evaluating new F1 hybrids, and upgraded Chandragiri variety with genes from Coffea liberica.

All countries have been screening varieties for resistance to Coffee leaf rust and other major diseases in participating countries. Substantial data have been collected showing resistance to coffee leaf rust especially for the Batian varieties in Kenya, and Selections 5A and 6. Segregation was evident in Selection 5A in all countries.

Three countries in Africa have been able to assess the varieties for quality, and the two selections, 5A and 6 have recorded very high quality similar to the Kenyan Batian and Ruiru varieties.

On-farm and on-station trials to screen fungicides, botanicals and biocontrol agents for control of CLR and CBD progressed very well during the period under review, and most countries concluded the trials after getting conclusive data. Some of the fungicides screened in the trials have been recommended and registered for use in countries such as Rwanda. Antifungal biocontol materials have not shown much promise in controlling Coffee leaf rust disease. In India, Bacillus brevis recorded good Coffee leaf rust control; however, the control by the biocontrol agent was not at the level of the standard control treatment, Bordeaux mixture.

Component IV: Scientific management, information systems and communication Country specific information materials were produced and disseminated in project

countries. Some of the information disseminated during the period under review was produced in previous reporting periods. Most of the materials were on coffee leaf rust and other disease control strategies, and general good coffee management practices.

Communication events centred on FFSs in all countries. However, most countries have initiated an exit strategy; some of the FFSs are running with minimal support from the project as it comes to the end.

Project team members continued to utilise the project website.

Component V: Project management and coordination PEA continued to advise PIAs on operational procedures using the CFC formats. PIAs were assisted during reporting periods in preparation of audits, audit reports, 2011

annual reports, and 2012 work plans and budgets. 2011 audit reports were sent to the donor. The PEA also liaised between the donors and the PIAs, and monitored progress of the project implementation, and provided necessary backstopping.

The PEA also provided guidance on preparation of project reports such as financial and technical reports for 2011 and 2012.

The PEA also participated in the Midterm review in India, and contributed to the writing up of the Midterm Review report.

The budget utilisation during the reporting period accounted for USD 103,256.31 being total expenditure for the period January to June 2012. The total budget for 2012 is USD 310,630.29 (being CFC contribution), and the budget utilisation to end of June 2012 is 33%. The Common Fund for Commodities (CFC) has so far disbursed USD 289,374.26 during the reporting period. The expenditure by component in relation to the budget is as follows; Component 1-32%, Component 2 – 34%, Component 3 – 47%, Component 4 – 32% and component 5 – 26%. The overall budget is 33% as mentioned above. The counterpart contribution during the period amounted to USD 77,938.06 out of a total budget of USD 122,546.67.

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2.      Status of project implementation during the reporting period

 Planned Activities Targets Set Present Status Remarks

Component I: Identification of needs and resources: rural community responses to CLR disease and the sourcing and production of coffee genetic material:Activity 1.1: Study the epidemiology of coffee leaf rust (Kenya only)

Collect and analyse data from two study sites

The studies were stopped as data is being analysed.

A report to be written on the findings

Activity 1.2: Assess the economic losses due to leaf rust under experimental conditions (Kenya only)

Maintain two experimental sites, collect and analyse data (Kenya only)

The studies were also stopped and data analysis and write-up is continued during the period.

Activity 1.3: Support the maintenance of nursery facilities – Kenya, Zimbabwe, India

Nursery facilities maintained for production of seedlings/planting materials

In Kenya, the CRF nurseries are under continuous upgrading through counterpart (CRF) contribution. In Zimbabwe CoRI is maintaining coffee nursery facilities at the main Coffee Research Station, Chipinge, and other substations. In India, nurseries of new breeding lines and promising new genotypes were raised and supplied for establishing on farm and on station trial plots.

Upgrading of nurseries will continue in order to meet the escalating demand for seedlings, especially in Kenya

Activity 1.4: Introduce new coffee accessions material, subject to quarantine and IP provisions (Kenya)

Collect as much coffee accessions as possible

Collection of new accessions from forests was carried out in the previous year. However, the collected materials were and are being maintained at CRF Headquarters.

Previously collected materials are being maintained

Activity 1.5: Document expected demand for improved varieties through solicitation of farmer groups and other stakeholders – Kenya and India

Demand for seed/planting materials of improved varieties documented

In Kenya, demand for improved varieties (Batian and Ruiru 11) remained higher than that of traditional varieties. Current demand for Batian is at 78%, Ruiru 11 at 19% and only 3% for traditional varieties such as SL28. In India, demand for seed of improved varieties will be documented by the end of October each year

This is a routine activity in Kenya and India.

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based on requests received from individual growers and grower groups. The total demand for different improved Arabica selections is 6.5 MT for 2012/13 season in traditional coffee growing areas. 65% of the total seed demand accounts to the new variety `Chandragiri`. The entire demand with respect to new variety will be met

Activity 1.6: Maintain homogenous seed production sites for future supply of genotypes and facilitate the establishment of efficient seed/seedling distribution networks (Kenya, Uganda, Zimbabwe, India)

Homogenous seed production sites maintained at on-station and on-farm sites

In Kenya, two (2) ha of seed gardens were maintained at CRF and its substations. In Zimbabwe, CoRI maintained four existing seed productionsi tes in different coffee growing regions across the country. India has maintained a total of 18 ha of area for seed plots at its six on-station sites with the improved varieties of Arabica. To meet the demand in non traditional areas, seed plot of Chandragiri variety was established in 0.75 ha at Technology Evaluation Centre, Koraput. In Uganda 0.4 ha were maintained at Ibanda, and 0.8 hectares at Bugusege of seed gardens of Arabica coffee variety KP423.

In Uganda the whole of Ibanda district now relies on seed produced at Ibanda.

Activity 1.7: Produce tissue culture materials of the resistant Robusta coffee clones in Uganda

Coffee plantlets produced for establishing mother gardens by nursery owners

Explants of the 7 CWD resistant varieties are undergoing culturing at different levels in the laboratory. Plants are also at ex-laboratory stage. A total of 790 plants were given out to nursery operators, during the reporting period, for establishing mother gardens. About 5,790 are in pots and 6,973 are being nurtured in poly cubes.

This activity is now fully supported by UCDA financially.

Activity 1.8: Mobilise key stakeholders, including farmers to participate in farm-based activities and establish linkages with FFS – Rwanda, Zimbabwe. India to initiate FFS activities in non-traditional coffee areas.

Participatory presentation of the project via workshop style events with wider communities.

Farmer mobilisation mainly centred on Farmer Field Schools (FFSs) in most countries. However, in some countries the activity is continuing without much project support as the project is coming to an end, and there is need initiate the exit strategy. In Rwanda, among six (6) established FFS from the beginning of the Project, four (4) are still running properly. In this reporting period, 30 sessions were carried out in Rwanda. Some meet twice a month while others meet once per month. In Zimbabwe, Farmers in Chikukwa, Chimanimani district agreed to move the FFS to a new site from the group

As we are a few months to concluding the project, farmers are encouraged to continue FFS under local government extensionists as they continue the learning process. For example in Kenya, FFS groups only call to get some information. All aspects of improved coffee production are covered in FFS such as: mulching, sucker removal, fertilizer application methods, production and rejuvenation pruning practices, disease management, harvesting and processing.

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demonstration plot to Mr. Machingaidze’s farm. Monthly FFS sessions run by Extensionists are on-going in Chimanimani, Chipinge and Mutasa districts. In India, ToT programme was conducted on 4th and 5th of September 2012 at technology Evaluation Centre, Minumuluru with backstopping of resource personnel from CABI-Africa. A total of FFS 10 groups were formed and during the period, 20 sessions were conducted.

Activity 1.9: Harvest, process and distribute seed to farmers at selected trial sites (India only)

Amounts of harvested and processed seed and number of recipients

A total seed demand of 8,270 kg of improved coffee varieties comprising of 6,500 kg of Arabica and 1,770 kg of Robusta has been received for 2012-13 season. Seed preparation and supply has been initiated during December 2012. In total, 3,410 kg of seed of arabica varieties was prepared and supplied during the period of report.

Seed production is a continuing activity in India.

Component II: Conservation and identification of coffee varieties and disease races: Activity 2.1: Characterise and maintain existing collections in field gene banks (Zimbabwe, India, Rwanda and Uganda)

A list of conserved coffee collections and their characteristics

In Zimbabwe, eleven coffee varieties are conserved in-situ at CoRI in Chipinge, Crake Valley Farm in Vumba, Marimbita farm in Honde Valley, and at Piringani farm. Varieties conserved in the gene banks are Catimor F6, Catimor 128, Catimor 129, K7, Yellow and Red Catuai, Caturra, Costa Rica, Mundo Nova, Indian Selection 5A and Indian Selection 6. Documentation of existing varieties in Zimbabwe is completed. In India, a total of 280 collections of Arabica, and 76 world collections of Arabica have been maintained in the gene banks at CCRI and CRSS, Chettalli, respectively. In Rwanda, all 184 existing accessions were conserved in three gene banks. Characteristics of collections have been documented. In Uganda, morphological data (yield, disease and growth parameters) were collected on 20 genotypes and are being analysed. In India, data has been documented on fruit and bean parameters for 76 germplasm collections

Field gene banks were revived in most countries under the project.

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established at CRSS, Chettalli. Yield data, bean parameters and field response to leaf rust pathogen as well as white stem borer was recorded. A monograph on the Germplasm collections has been compiled

Activity 2.2: Scout/survey for the occurrence of new CLR races, collecting CLR isolates and determining races in Portugal (India only)

New and existing CLR races and collections of isolates thereof documented.

A total of 20 rust samples were characterized and Race XXIX with virulent gene combination (v,5,6,7,8,9) and other common races like VIII, XVII and XXIII were differentiated. The virulent races isolated earlier from Catimor and Sarchimor derivatives were maintained for screening experiments.

Validation of new breeding lines (both F1 and F2

progenies) with SCAR markers to SH3 has been continued for tracking the plants homozygous to SH3 gene

DNA marker assays have been continued using SSR and SRAP approaches to identify cultivar specific markers. Five SRAP primers N4, O24, S11, P6 and R9 tested on three tall Arabica varieties such as S.795, Sln.5A and Sln.6 were found polymorphic and three primers generated cultivar specific profiles.

The activity was concluded last year in the four African countries. However, efforts to import coffee leaf rust race differential varieties have failed due to unwillingness by couriers to transport live plants from Portugal. The differentials are transported as rooted cuttings in order to conserve their genetic makeup.

Activity 2.3: Build capacity of staff in Socioeconomics, phytopathology, socioeconomics, marker assisted selection, and breeding (Kenya, India, Uganda, and Zimbabwe)

Scientists in African countries trained for higher degrees

Capacity building activities continued during the period. In addition to normal capacity building by the PEA related to project implementation, members of staff in the countries were also supported in university studies. In Kenya, a Plant breeder is pursuing PhD at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, and an Extensionist is pursuing MSc at Kenyatta University. In India, Mr Bernard M. Gichimu of

Most of the members of staff will complete their studies in the current year; however, some may extend beyond the project period. A Rwandese student, Joseph Bigirimana graduated with an MSc in Plant Breeding, and he specialised in Coffee Breeding. A paper entitled “Incidence and severity of coffee leaf rust and other coffee pests and diseases in Rwanda” was published by Joseph Bigirimana et al. in African Journal of Agricultural

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CRF, Kenya visited CCRI, India and was exposed to the breeding methods and marker assisted selection strategies being adopted in India for durable rust resistance. Zimbabwe has one extension officer training for a BSc in Agriculture with Zimbabwe Open University, and one research officer studying for an MSc degree in Agronomy and Breeding with the University of Zimbabwe. The MSC student has successfully completed studies while the BSc still has two more years. Characterisation of all coffee varieties in Zimbabwe has been initiated as part of the MSc research project. In Uganda Mr Israel Sebugenyi and Mr. Robert Matovu are at the final stage of their MSc studies in Agriculture at Makerere University.

Research, Vol. 7(26), pp. 3847-3852, 10 July, 2012 (http://www.academicjournals.org/AJAR/PDF/pdf2012/10%20Jul/Bigirimana%20et%20al.pdf).

Activity 2.4: Address IP and quarantine issues to ensure mutually agreed and safe transfer of genetic material (Zimbabwe)

Joint approach to coffee material IP and quarantine issues.

IP and quarantine issues are addressed during importation of coffee seed for the two Indian hybrids into Zimbabwe, using existing national quarantine policies.

Currently no importations were involved, although the PEA, PIAs and partners in Portugal are looking for alternative ways for transporting coffee leaf rust differential varieties to African project countries.

Activity 2.5: Protocols to facilitate horizontal exchanges of genetic material (Kenya and Zimbabwe)

Institutional IP policy developed and applied

Countries are utilising their national IP policy for coffee.

Activity 2.6 An IP communication strategy involving awareness raising and policy influencing activities, as needed (India)

A communication strategy developed and used to inform steering committee members.

The national IP policy formulated for other agricultural crops are also applicable for coffee. As registration of varieties under PPV & FR is mandatory now. Efforts are being made to finalize the DUS criteria for Indian coffee varieties. Clear guidelines exists for exchange of plant Germplasm for research purpose following plant quarantine stipulations.

Component III: Field trials on farm and station:Activity 3.1: Nursery Seedlings of F1 India continued with the nursery trials mainly in New F1 hybrids developed from reciprocal crosses

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trials to evaluate seedling growth/vigour of new F1 hybrids (India only)

hybrids evaluated under nursery conditions in India.

evaluating F1 hybrids. The work progressed well. involving Chandragiri and selected plants of S.3827 (homozygous to SH3 gene) were evaluated for seedling vigour. The hybrids recorded mid parental values for most of the characters. The hybrid of Sln.10 x Chandragiri recorded 20.65% heterosis for seedling vigour as reflected by the no. of pairs of leaves and early cutting of primaries. The F1 progenies were established in field in two locations (CCRI & CRSS, Chettalli) for further evaluation.

Activity 3.2 On-farm and on-station trials to evaluate CLR and other disease resistance, agronomic performance, yield and cup quality of commercial varieties/advanced breeders lines/accessions. (All)

Disease resistance, agronomic performance, yield and quality of hybrids under on-farm and on-station determined. India to establish new F1 trials which will continue beyond the project period.

In Kenya, data collection and analysis involving Kenyan commercial varieties and Indian accessions started in May 2010 and is continuing. The two Indian accessions have good disease resistance but are inferior to Kenyan varieties in terms of yields. Quality evaluation showed that Indian accessions compared well to Kenyan cultivars for both biochemical and cup quality. In India, the two selected lines (S.4814 and S.4817) continued to manifest high field tolerance to leaf rust, productivity and quality. The lines were planted in 8 locations both on-farm and on station for multi-location evaluation. Cupping of the new lines by the international expert (Kenneth Davids, USA) recorded a overall rating of 85.5 and 87%. Rwanda found that Indian selections (Selection 6 and 5A) have good resistance to rust and cupping results from three sites are now available. Selection 5A has shown segregation just like in other countries. However, the cupping results have shown that it is among the best. In Zimbabwe growth and yield measurements and insect pest and disease assessment data are being collected from the 11 varietal trials in Chimanimani (1), Chipinge (2), Makonde (1) and Mutasa (7) districts. Coffee leaf rust has been observed in SL28, Catimor F6, K7 & Indian selection 6 at different sites. Coffee Berry Disease was observed in all the varieties at Piringani farm, implying that even the Indian selections can be infected by Coffee berry disease. In Uganda, data collection continued on

Activity is progressing well in all countries. However, although most countries will be having conclusive results by the end of the year/project, Uganda may still continue evaluating varieties due to the delay which was occasioned by two successive droughts which resulted in replanting of varietal trials.

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the multi-locational trials of Indian Selections 5A and 6, and other lines at Kituza. In India, data has been collected on vegetative and yield component characters from the varietal trial plots established in 11 locations. Eight plots planted during 2008 yielded first crops and final data is yet to e recorded as harvesting is in progress. The data is being subjected for detailed analysis using stability parameters, Growth index, Heritability, Genotype-Environment interaction etc.

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Activity 3.3: In India, on-station and on-farm trials to test efficacy of identified anti-fungal botanicals and other bio-agents (India only). India is also to search for potential bio-control agents from coffee phyllo-sphere against CLR in collaboration with Bharathiar University.

In Africa Participatory on-farm trials to test alternative fungicides and anti-fungal botanicals and other bio-agents already showing promise (Zimbabwe, Rwanda, and Uganda)

Efficacy of antifungal botanical and other bio-agents determined for the control of CLR in India. In additional new biocontrol agents documented and evaluated in field trials with Bharathiar University in India

Alternative fungicides and anti-fungal botanicals evaluated for the control of CLR and/or CBD.

In India, the efficacy of five bio-agents (three bacterial and two botanicals) was evaluated against leaf rust in both on-station and on-farm trials for the third consecutive year. Data revealed that Bacillus brevis is found relatively effective with low incidence of rust compared to Pseudomonas fluorescens and Enterobacter intermedius that recorded high rust incidences The two botanicals (neem kernel extract & soap nut fruit extract recorded high disease incidence, implying that they are not very effective. However, all bioagents tested were less effective compared to the control, Bordeaux mixture.

In Uganda, Tebucozole (Orius) has been consistently superior to copper oxychloride in controlling coffee leaf rust. In Rwanda, in all eight (8) on-farm and one (1) on-station fungicide trials, Cyproconazole (Alto), a Triconazole is the most effective fungicide for coffee leaf rust control. It has now been registered and recommended by the National Agriculture Export and Development Board (NAEB) for use in the country by coffee farmers. This is a big achievement for the project in the country. In Zimbabwe, data is being collected from three fungicide evaluation trials established in Chimanimani, Chipinge and Mutasa district.

The activity is being concluded and written up this year.

Activity 3.4 Analyse data obtained from trials (all)

Data from trials analysed or summarised. This being the final year, all activities should be written-up into reports and sent separately the project manager)

Data analysis for trials is progressing well in preparation for writing up of activities.

Activity will be concluded this year.

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Component IV: Scientific management, information systems and communicationActivity 4.1: Prepare information materials for use in communication strategies with farmers and other coffee stakeholders, including learning activities for FFS groups (India, Kenya and Uganda)

Information materials for use in communication activities with farmers and other stakeholders including FFS groups prepared.

In Uganda, site specific calendars for coffee management activities (produced in 2010 and revised in 2011) were disseminated to all members of FFSs in Kapchorwa (160), Manafwa (160), Nebbi (80) and Zombo (80) districts. Disseminated materials included: brochures on Arabica coffee nursery management (5,000), Arabica coffee pest identification and management (5000), Arabica coffee field establishment and management (5000), and identification of Arabica coffee diseases and their management (5000). In Kenya, CRF continued to supply farmers with information materials on demand. While in India a total of 13 extension folders on important coffee growing technologies were printed during March 2011 in local language (Kannada) and disseminated during the reporting period to growers through extension networks. A total of 18 short duration modules on coffee cultivation were produced jointly with e-TV kannada for e-TV - annadata programme and telecasted for the benefit of the coffee growers. One exclusive documentary on Leaf rust management has been prepared for extension education purposes.

Activity will continue after the project under PIAs’ financing.

Activity 4.2: Carry out communication events for project stakeholders (India, Kenya, Uganda and Zimbabwe)

Stakeholder meetings, field days, FFS meetings, open days exchange visits and annual workshops carried out.

Main communication events were carried out through FFSs in participating countries. In India, three FFS sessions were organized at Periyakadu, Piliyur in yercaud zone on 11.1. 2012, and at Nagenahalli, Belur zone on 14.01.2012 for interaction with the midterm review team of the project. One stakeholder meeting was organized at CCRI on 16.1.2012 during the visit of midterm review team to CCRI. One field day was organized at Technology Evaluation Centre, Gonicoppal, on 9th January 2012. In Zimbabwe, FFS meetings &

Activity is continuing under FFS groups and the national agriculture extension personnel in some countries as an exit strategy since the project is coming to an end.

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training sessions continued in Chimanimani, Chipinge and Mutasa districts. Training sessions were conducted on a monthly basis.

In India, a pilot programme on ‘Mobile Technology Enabled Coffee Extension’ “has been initiated jointly with CABI, South Asia. Under this programme, Scoping and requirement gathering has been completed. Developing Coffee Knowledge Bank and mobile & web applications are in progress.

Field study was conducted using principles of participatory rural appraisal method (PRA). Focussed group interview was conducted in 3 major coffee producing zones of Karnataka; Chickmagalur, Hassan and Coorg (Chettali). The objective of the focus group interview was to identify existing knowledge gap among the various stakeholders in the coffee value chain by analysing the key challenges they face throughout the coffee production cycle, how they meet up those challenges today and what better solution they expect that can be delivered via mobile channel

Activity 4.3: Utilise the web based resource of practical knowledge for coffee farming. (All)

A Project website utilised

Project members continued to utilise the project website.

The website will continue to be available after the project period.

Component V: Project management and coordination Activity 5.1: Advise on project operational procedures based on CFC formats

CABI to continuously advise PIA on operational procedures using DFC formats

PEA has been advising PIAs on operational procedures using CFC formats. Advice has been provided in both technical and financial aspects of the project implementation.

Activity is continuing

Activity 5.2: Assist PIAs to prepare necessary documentation, including budgets, work plans, and reports.

CABI provides necessary formats for documentation and compiles the same before forwarding to the CFC and ICO

PIAs have been assisted during the reporting period in preparation of audits and audit reports, 2011 annual reports, and 2012 work plans and budgets. All audit reports were submitted to the donor.

Activity is continuing

Activity 5.3: Liaise between project donors and implementers and

CABI liaises between donors and PIAs

CABI has successfully liaised between the donors and PIAs

Activity is continuing

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arrange exchange visitsActivity 5.4: Monitor project progress and report on inputs (disbursements), activities undertaken and outputs achieved (to include mid-term impact review and expenditure audits)

Progress on the project monitored and reported

Progress on project implementation was monitored accordingly.

Activity is continuing

Activity 5.5: Assist PIAs and collaborators with planning and co-ordination of activities aimed at providing uptake pathways for outputs

PIAs and collaborators backstopped with planning and coordination of activities

CABI members of staff have been assisting PIAs with planning and coordination of project activities aimed at providing uptake pathways.

Activity is continuing

Activity 5.6: Prepare regular progress reports, mid-term evaluation report, annual accounts, audits and project completion report.

Progress reports, semi-annual and annual technical and financial progress, reports, and detailed reports for completed activities prepared

Financial and technical progress reports for 2011 were prepared. Also contributed to preparation of the Midterm Review report.

Activity is continuing.

Activity 5.7: Convene an end of project workshop

CABI supports a hosting country in organizing the end of project workshop and facilitates the attendance of collaborators.

This activity will be implemented in the second half of the year. The proposed venue is Uganda, and the function is to be hosted by the National Agriculture Research Organisation’s (NARO’s) Coffee Research Centre of National Crops Resources Research Institute (NaCRRI). It has been decided to hold the closing workshop in India during 3rd week (18-22) of March 2013.

Activity will be carried out during the second half of the year.

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2. Assessment of Resource Utilisation

The budget utilisation during the reporting period accounted for USD 103,256.31 being total expenditure for the period January to June 2012. The total budget for 2012 is USD 310,630.29 (being CFC contribution), and the budget utilisation to end of June 2012 is 33%. The Common Fund for Commodities (CFC) has so far disbursed USD 289,374.26 during the reporting period.

The expenditure by component in relation to the budget is as follows; Component 1-32%, Component 2 – 34%, Component 3 – 47%, Component 4 – 32% and component 5 – 26%. The overall budget is 33% as mentioned above. The counterpart contribution during the period amounted to USD 77,938.06 out of a total budget of USD 122,546.67.

Generally, the cash flows for project have been efficient and effective following timely disbursements by the Common Fund for Commodities (CFC). We hope that the process will remain efficient to enable the project activities progress as planned.

The PEA has enhanced the level of communication with partners on financial matters. Issues raised by partners have been addressed amicably; claims are now being received bi-monthly and a lot of improvement has been evidenced from the consistency of claims and it is hoped that this will continue during the coming and subsequent reporting period. It is also worth mentioning that with the support from the Common Fund for Commodities (CFC), partners have had a smooth implementation of planned activities due to adequate cash flows and supervisory follow up by the project co-ordinator. PEA has also enhanced its processing time which has resulted in improved quality of claims from partners.

Financial report and resource utilisation are presented in Table 1 and Annex 1 below.

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Category I Category II Category III Category IV Category V Category VI Category VII Category VIII Category IX Category X

CABI claimCountry, Supplier

& PEA

Amount paid to PI, PEA or

Supplier

Vehicle, Machinery & Equipment Civil Works

Materials & Supplies Personnel

TA & Consultancy Duty Travel

Dissemination & Training

Operational costs Monitoring Unallocated

TotalClaims ( J an '12) PEA - CABI Africa $3,461.30 $0.00 $0.00 $35.54 $0.00 $0.00 $516.36 $0.00 $0.00 $2,909.40 $0.00Claims (Feb'12) PEA - CABI Africa $2,287.38 $0.00 $0.00 $333.08 $0.00 $0.00 $1,954.31 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00Claims (March'12) PEA - CABI Africa $6,385.64 $0.00 $0.00 $135.64 $6,250.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00Claims ( April'12) PEA - CABI Africa $3,055.75 $0.00 $0.00 $972.42 $2,083.33 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00Claims ( May - June'12) PEA - CABI Africa $4,445.10 $0.00 $0.00 $136.90 $2,083.33 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $2,224.87 $0.00 $0.00

$19,635.18 $0.00 $0.00 $1,613.58 $10,416.67 $0.00 $2,470.66 $0.00 $2,224.87 $2,909.40 $0.00

Claims ( J an '12) PI - India $1,488.67 $0.00 $0.00 $1,048.35 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $440.32 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00Claims (Feb'12) PI - India $4,284.02 $0.00 $0.00 $923.29 $1,138.21 $464.07 $122.05 $1,582.50 $53.90 $0.00 $0.00Claims (March'12) PI - India $1,724.44 $0.00 $0.00 $536.61 $1,104.54 $0.00 $31.46 $12.39 $39.45 $0.00 $0.00Claims ( April'12) PI - India $1,757.56 $0.00 $0.00 $272.34 $1,068.09 $26.70 $109.67 $53.88 $226.87 $0.00 $0.00Claims ( May'12) PI - India $1,933.34 $0.00 $0.00 $403.47 $1,110.78 $0.00 $375.30 $0.00 $43.78 $0.00 $0.00Claims ( June'12) PI - India $10,880.32 $3,584.67 $0.00 $5,550.79 $439.65 $836.02 $433.98 $0.00 $35.21 $0.00 $0.00

$22,068.35 $3,584.67 $0.00 $8,734.86 $4,861.27 $1,326.79 $1,072.46 $2,089.09 $399.22 $0.00 $0.00

Claims ( J an - March'12) PI -Kenya $13,319.86 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $6,419.17 $0.00 $4,234.20 $2,518.72 $147.77 $0.00 $0.00Claims ( April - June'12) PI -Kenya $8,479.25 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $8,375.63 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $103.62 $0.00 $0.00

$21,799.11 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $14,794.80 $0.00 $4,234.20 $2,518.72 $251.39 $0.00 $0.00

Claims ( J an - June'12) PI - Rwanda $9,018.39 $0.00 $0.00 $40.94 $2,665.16 $1,412.41 $3,966.75 $918.11 $15.03 $0.00 $0.00$9,018.39 $0.00 $0.00 $40.94 $2,665.16 $1,412.41 $3,966.75 $918.11 $15.03 $0.00 $0.00

Claims (Aug'11 to March'12) PI - Uganda $14,333.71 $0.00 $0.00 $659.57 $2,372.39 $371.91 $2,365.90 $6,426.45 $2,137.49 $0.00 $0.00$14,333.71 $0.00 $0.00 $659.57 $2,372.39 $371.91 $2,365.90 $6,426.45 $2,137.49 $0.00 $0.00

Claims (Jan - May'12) PI - Zimbabwe $16,401.58 $0.00 $0.00 $3,059.00 $3,321.00 $2,124.90 $3,055.00 $3,048.00 $1,793.68 $0.00 $0.00$16,401.58 $0.00 $0.00 $3,059.00 $3,321.00 $2,124.90 $3,055.00 $3,048.00 $1,793.68 $0.00 $0.00

$103,256.31 $3,584.67 $0.00 $14,107.94 $38,431.28 $5,236.02 $17,164.97 $15,000.37 $6,821.66 $2,909.40 $0.00

Annex 1 - Resource Utilization - CFC/ICO/40 - Jan - June 2012 Progress Report

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3. Assessment of project co-ordination and managementThe project was successfully coordinated and managed in all countries during the period under review. No major problems were encountered during the period.

4. Assessment of Technical ProgressTechnically the project is progressing well. Substantial data have been collected, and a range of activities have been scaled down or concluded. However, it is important to note that by the end of the year and project, Uganda will not have concluded the varietal trials, they will still be evaluating varieties under the national funding. Most of the remaining work is screening of varietal trials and writing up of the findings or the activities.

5. Social and Environmental Effects of Project ImplementationA number of countries have substantial data confirming resistance of varieties to coffee leaf rust, and other diseases. This will greatly help in reducing dependence on pesticides for the control of Coffee leaf rust disease. The reduced use of fungicides, which contaminate the environment, will greatly contribute to protecting the environment. It will also reduce the load of fungicide sprays for disease management. The project has also added to the pool of knowledge on improved coffee management technologies which will greatly help and has already started helping farmers in improving coffee productivity and income from the crop. Farmers have already started using some of the technologies introduced to them through Farmer Field Schools and dissemination materials. Use of existing improved technologies was also enhanced by the project through FFSs.

7.      Forward planning of project implementationProject work plans and budgets for 2012 which incorporated comments from the Midterm Review are forming a basis for implementing activities. However, the bulk of the work remaining for the period is varietal evaluation, writing up of activities and holding an end of project workshop, which is planned for later in the year.

8.      Lessons learnedThe main lesson is from Uganda where total dependence on rainfall has resulted in delaying project outputs due to two consecutive droughts which resulted in replanting varietal trials. In addition, some increased coffee productivity has resulted in farmers in Kenya requesting for support in modern high capacity pulpers and driers to cope with the increased productivity.

 9.      Conclusions and Recommendations:The project is progressing well, and is generating very useful outputs.

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