Pre-extension Demonstration and Popularization of Silk Production Technologies in South Ethiopia

Abstract

The study was conducted in Shebadino, Tula and Wondogenet districts of Sidama regional state of southern Ethiopia from 2018 to 2023 with the objectives of to evaluate the performance of silk production technologies at various levels of silk production with stakeholders/beneficiaries. The study also aimed to create awareness and develop confidence among silkworm producers, development agents, agricultural experts and policy makers for wider dissemination. Nine kebeles’ (the lowest administrative level), were selected from three (3) districts for the purposes of this study. Five (5) farmers from each kebele were selected, totaling 45 farmers, for technology pre-scale up and promotion. Three rounds of theoretical and practical training were given to these farmers after they were selected. Training in the third round focused on managing row silk and cocoons after harvest, with a first round that covered broad knowledge and the importance of sericulture. Of the farmers who were chosen and trained, 95.6 percent were women who began raising silk worms, producing cocoons, and processing row silk. Each farmer received 30 kilograms of castor seed and 50 disease-free adult moths for pre-scaling up and promotion of the technology. During the first year of the study period, 90%, 50%, and 40% of the disease-free moths that were disseminated laid eggs and developed into cocoons at Shebadino, Tula sub city and Wondogenet districts respectively. Sericulture is very beneficial to young people, particularly women, in terms of providing a variety of employment options and viable income without affecting their regular agricultural activities or the existing sociocultural equilibrium. Sericulture technology with its package used, knowledge and skill of the farmers (users) on the technology upgraded, continuous follow up assured by DAs and experts. This study highlights the significance of sericulture for rural development and offers insightful information for its dissemination.