Virginia State University/University of Asmara/Eritrean Ministry of Agriculture
Country:
Eritrea
Award Date:
1998
Award Amount:
$99,856.00
Cost Share:
$134,803.00
Other Funds:
$10,050.00
Other Partners:
Ver-Tech Inc.
This partnership collaborated to domesticate the indigenous vernonia plant (Vernonia galamensis) as a viable industrial oil crop in Eritrea. Vernonia is drought resistant, and its seeds contain environmentally friendly oil that is widely used in industrial applications. Through collaborative research, the partners identified several varieties and then produced and distributed them to local farmers. Partners organized two field days at the Halhale research station for local farmers, students and faculty, Ministry of Agriculture officials, and representatives from international agencies. Partners also conducted workshops on 1) the principles and techniques of experimental design and field layout; 2) guidelines for conducting scientific research and publication; 3) strategies and techniques for better oral and poster presentation; 4) and the potential of soybeans for grain and vegetable use in Eritrea. More research was undertaken to identify agronomic practices that give optimum seed yield and to identify seed cleaning and processing systems.