Research Article
Evaluation and Demonstration of Combined Application of Gypsum (CaSO4) and Compost for Soil Salinity Management in East Shewa Zone, Oromia, Ethiopia
Tesfaye Gemechu*
,
Kasahun Kitila,
Abay Chala
Issue:
Volume 7, Issue 3, September 2026
Pages:
59-64
Received:
8 April 2026
Accepted:
3 June 2026
Published:
3 July 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.sf.20260703.11
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Abstract: An expansion of irrigated agriculture is greatly contributing to the build-up of and spread of salinity problems. A small-scale evaluation and demonstration of soil salinity reclamation technology was done to evaluate yield and profitability performances on onion crop under farmers management conditions at small scale irrigation farms in Dugda district, Oromia, Ethiopia. Appropriate sites were selected in collaboration with district level agricultural experts and development agents based on soil salinity problems. Plots were divided in to two treatments of gypsum applied at 100 gypsum requirement which is 4ton/ha in combination with 2.5ton/ha of compost and farmers fertilization practices with no application of gypsum and compost. The treatments were replicated across 10 trial farmers’ fields. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-test and qualitatively. The best yield was gained from plots where gypsum (4ton/ha) and compost (2.5ton/ha) were applied together. This combined approach outperformed the other treatments, and the difference were statistically significant based on t-test results. Notably, gypsum treated plots produced a yield advantage of 12.4% higher than the untreated plots and a marginal rate of return of 1.75. The participant farmers also gave positive feedback regarding the soil salinity reclamation technology. Hence, applying gypsum at 100 gypsum requirement in combination with compost is recommended for reclaiming salt affected soils in the district and similar agro-ecologies.
Abstract: An expansion of irrigated agriculture is greatly contributing to the build-up of and spread of salinity problems. A small-scale evaluation and demonstration of soil salinity reclamation technology was done to evaluate yield and profitability performances on onion crop under farmers management conditions at small scale irrigation farms in Dugda dist...
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Research Article
Fish Diversity Assessment in Khartoum Central Local Fish Market During the Post-war Period
Haram Hassan Abbas Bakhiet*,
Rasheda Ibrahim
Issue:
Volume 7, Issue 3, September 2026
Pages:
65-69
Received:
6 May 2026
Accepted:
13 June 2026
Published:
8 July 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.sf.20260703.12
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Freshwater fisheries play a vital role in food security, employment generation, and livelihood support in Sudan; however, the recent armed conflict severely disrupted fish production, transportation networks, market operations, and consumer access to fish products. This study assessed fish species diversity, market conditions, and indicators of post-war recovery in the Khartoum Central Local Fish Market, one of the most important fish trading centers in Sudan. A descriptive field-based approach was employed, combining direct market observations with structured interviews involving fish vendors, fishermen, and consumers. Information on fish species composition, supply sources, market activity, fish prices, and product quality was collected and compared with conditions reported during the conflict period. The findings revealed moderate to high fish species diversity within the market, with species of the genus Oreochromis being the most abundant, followed by Clarias spp. and Lates niloticus. Market observations indicated increased fish availability and consumer attendance compared with wartime conditions, while fish prices showed a moderate decline, suggesting gradual stabilization of market dynamics and improved supply. The White Nile and Jebel Aulia Reservoir were identified as the primary post-war sources of fish supply, and sensory quality assessments demonstrated generally acceptable freshness of marketed fish. Despite these positive developments, several challenges remain, particularly unreliable electricity supply, inadequate cold-storage facilities, and limitations in market infrastructure. Overall, the results indicate that the Khartoum Central Local Fish Market is exhibiting clear signs of ecological and commercial recovery following the conflict; however, sustained recovery of the fisheries sector will require targeted investments in infrastructure, cold-chain development, and market support systems to enhance resilience and ensure long-term sustainability in post-conflict urban environments.
Abstract: Freshwater fisheries play a vital role in food security, employment generation, and livelihood support in Sudan; however, the recent armed conflict severely disrupted fish production, transportation networks, market operations, and consumer access to fish products. This study assessed fish species diversity, market conditions, and indicators of pos...
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