As part of its engagement in demand driven & problem solving research, ASTU is proud to have collaborated with Bio & Emerging Technologies Institute (BETin). ASTU and BETin entered into the partnership to tackle the widely spread infestation of mango trees in Ethiopia. Dr. Ofgaa Djirata, a senior researcher at ASTU, was selected to lead this project.
Dr. Ofgaa was selected because of his expertise on the matter as he had conducted research on mango. The project has sites in Arba Minch, West Wollega and Asosa, localities where mango grows in abundance.
The research has come to fruition as the research team developed viable solutions that need to be scaled up.
The field panel discussion was held in Arba Minch on June 29, 2024. Mr. Mekonnen Moges, head of Gamo Zone Prosperity Party, welcomed the guests and expressed his appreciation for the researchers for selecting the Zone as a research site. He stated that the livelihood of the people of Gamo Zone is intricately interrelated with mango. According to Mr. Mekonnen Mango is food staff, shade and a means of income for the people of Gamo Zone.
His excellency Dr. Negeri Lencho, chairman of human resource and technology affairs permanent committee at House of people’s Representative, made opening remarks. Dr. Negeri stated that universities and research centers shall conduct research that could improve the livelihood of the society and thereby bring along prosperity for Ethiopians. He appreciated BETin and ASTU for engaging in this critical research undertaking. Professor Kassahun Tesfaye, General Director of BETin, thanked ASTU for facilitating the research. He also expressed his gratitude that the project has come to fruition and encouraged all stakeholders to implement the results of the research undertaking.
Dr. Ofgaa underscored that the efforts of fighting the Mango infestation can be fruitful only if there is a country wide revolution and that the effort cannot be successful if it is based on campaign basis. He also noted that the project has three components. These are mango tree top work, insecticide validation and mango pruning. Dr. Ofgaa and his team have showcased the results of their research during the field visit.
