Research Article
The Status of Beekeeping in Simada District, Amhara, Ethiopia, with Its Challenges and Opportunities
Tadesse Tsegaw
,
Tessema Ayenalem,
Agazhe Tsegaye*
Issue:
Volume 5, Issue 3, September 2024
Pages:
62-85
Received:
10 July 2024
Accepted:
7 August 2024
Published:
6 September 2024
Abstract: The study was designed to assess the existing beekeeping practices, constraints, and potential of honeybee production in Simada district. The study was carried out in four proportionally selected kebeles of highland, midland, and lowland agro-ecology. Accordingly, a total sample size of 146 beekeepers, depending on their potential, was interviewed using a structured and semi-structured questionnaire. A semi-structured questionnaire, field observation, and focal group discussion were employed to collect primary data. Descriptive statistics such as mean, frequency, and standard deviation were used to analyze the data. The majority of beekeepers in the district are mail-headed, and the majority can read and write. Beekeepers practiced three hive types but mostly used traditional hives. The majority of honeybee colonies are found in midland agro-ecology, but they are not significantly different (P<0.05). About 57.5% of beekeepers obtain their colony through buying, and their colony increases through reproductive swarming. Beekeepers construct both traditional and top-bar hives from the surrounding available material. Frame hives were obtained from GOs on a credit basis. Beekeepers indicated that the majority of honey was harvested in October and November. The second minor harvesting period was from May to June, which depends on the nature of the yearly rainfall conditions. As the respondent's described, they stored honey below one year in a plastic jar, clay jar, and plastic sack when plenty of products were obtained and for medicinal value, unless they used honey during harvesting as a source of income. Predators and pests are major constraints on honey bee production, followed by pesticides and herbicides in the study area. Other identified beekeeping constraints were shown in relative order of importance: drought, death of colony, lack of water, migration, and disease are some of the problems that hinder productivity. Honeybees required feed supplementation during the dry season; about 28% of beekeepers fed their colonies with higher supplements made from February to April. The commonly used supplements were peas and bean flour (Shiro), barley flour (Besso), sugar, honey, and others, including Niger.
Abstract: The study was designed to assess the existing beekeeping practices, constraints, and potential of honeybee production in Simada district. The study was carried out in four proportionally selected kebeles of highland, midland, and lowland agro-ecology. Accordingly, a total sample size of 146 beekeepers, depending on their potential, was interviewed ...
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Research Article
Public Health Professionals’ Perspectives on Research Utilization in Nigerian Health Systems
Michael Avwerhota*,
Ebenezer Obi Daniel,
Oladayo Olarinre Avwerhota,
Israel Olukayode Popoola,
Taiwo Aderemi Popoola,
Adebanke Adetutu Ogun,
Ahmed Mamuda Bello,
Michael Olabode Tomori,
Aisha Oluwakemi Salami,
Celestine Emeka Ekwuluo,
Olukayode Oladeji Alewi,
Aremu Bukola Janet
Issue:
Volume 5, Issue 3, September 2024
Pages:
86-93
Received:
26 July 2024
Accepted:
21 August 2024
Published:
11 September 2024
Abstract: The integration of research evidence into healthcare decision-making is essential for improving health outcomes, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria. This study investigates the perspectives of public health professionals on research utilization within the Nigerian health system, identifying barriers and facilitators to the application of evidence-based practices. Utilizing a cross-sectional descriptive design, data were collected from public health professionals and policymakers through a structured questionnaire distributed via Google Survey. The findings reveal a significant gap in the dissemination and utilization of research findings, with many professionals unaware of existing systems to facilitate this process. Despite recognizing the importance of research utilization for enhancing health and quality of life, barriers such as limited access to quality research publications and inadequate collaboration between researchers and policymakers impede effective implementation. Capacity-building initiatives, such as workshops and continuous professional development programs, were identified as key facilitators for promoting evidence-based practices. The study underscores the need for improved communication and tailored dissemination strategies to bridge the gap between research and practice, ensuring that findings are accessible and applicable to the specific needs of different professional groups. These results align with existing literature that highlights the crucial role of evidence-based practice in public health and the necessity of robust dissemination and implementation frameworks. Addressing these barriers and leveraging facilitators can significantly enhance the utilization of research findings, leading to better health outcomes and more effective healthcare policies in Nigeria.
Abstract: The integration of research evidence into healthcare decision-making is essential for improving health outcomes, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria. This study investigates the perspectives of public health professionals on research utilization within the Nigerian health system, identifying barriers and facilitators to th...
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Review Article
Enhancing Rice Seed Production in Ethiopia with Silicon-Rich Biochar
Yilikal Melak Assaye*
Issue:
Volume 5, Issue 3, September 2024
Pages:
94-96
Received:
6 August 2024
Accepted:
3 September 2024
Published:
23 September 2024
Abstract: Rice is a critical staple crop in Ethiopia, playing a key role in ensuring food security. However, rice production in the country faces significant challenges, including low seed quality and yield. The application of silicon-rich rice husk biochar has emerged as a promising approach to address these constraints and improve the sustainability of rice seed production systems. This comprehensive review synthesizes the current state of knowledge on the use of rice husk biochar as a source of plant-available silicon to enhance rice seed quality, yield, and stress tolerance in Ethiopian agroecosystems. The manuscript critically evaluates the existing research on the agronomic, environmental, and socioeconomic impacts of applying silicon-enriched biochar in rice seed production, and identifies key knowledge gaps and future research priorities. The findings suggest that the integration of rice husk biochar into rice seed production systems can significantly improve seed germination, vigor, and yield, while also enhancing nutrient use efficiency and soil health. However, more research is needed to optimize application rates, methods, and integration with other sustainable management practices. Overall, this review provides important insights to guide the development of evidence-based strategies for enhancing the productivity and sustainability of rice seed production in Ethiopia.
Abstract: Rice is a critical staple crop in Ethiopia, playing a key role in ensuring food security. However, rice production in the country faces significant challenges, including low seed quality and yield. The application of silicon-rich rice husk biochar has emerged as a promising approach to address these constraints and improve the sustainability of ric...
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