National Agricultural Research Institute (Eritrea)
The National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI) in Eritrea is the primary agricultural research institution in the country. Its mandate is to conduct research and development activities to improve agricultural productivity, food security, and natural resource management within Eritrea. NARI focuses on various aspects of agriculture, including crop improvement, livestock production, soil and water conservation, and the development of appropriate farming technologies.
NARI's research programs are typically aligned with the national agricultural priorities of Eritrea, aiming to address the specific challenges faced by farmers in different agro-ecological zones. The institute often collaborates with other national and international research organizations, universities, and development agencies to enhance its research capacity and promote the dissemination of research findings. Through its research efforts, NARI contributes to the development of sustainable and resilient agricultural systems in Eritrea.
Key activities undertaken by NARI may include:
- Crop breeding and varietal selection: Developing and identifying high-yielding, disease-resistant, and climate-resilient crop varieties.
- Livestock improvement: Enhancing livestock breeds through selection and breeding programs to improve productivity and disease resistance.
- Soil and water management: Researching and promoting sustainable soil and water conservation practices to enhance soil fertility and water availability.
- Integrated pest management: Developing and promoting integrated pest management strategies to minimize crop losses due to pests and diseases.
- Technology transfer: Disseminating research findings and improved technologies to farmers through extension services and training programs.
- Seed production: Producing and distributing quality seeds of improved crop varieties to farmers.
NARI plays a crucial role in supporting the agricultural sector in Eritrea by providing evidence-based solutions to address the challenges of food security and sustainable agricultural development. Its research outputs inform agricultural policies and practices, contributing to the overall improvement of livelihoods for Eritrean farmers.