ABSTRACTSilver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized from the root extract Stephania abyssinica by aneco-friendly and cost-effective method. Stephania abyssinica root extract with AgNO3 solutionwas used to synthesize AgNPs. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by UV–Vis,FTIR and XRD spectrophotometers. The antimicrobial activity of the nanoparticles was testedby the agar disc diffusion method. The result was that the dark yellow colour solution changedto brown solution with AgNO3 solution confirming the formation of AgNPs. The UV–Vis peak at275 nm in the plant extract shows the presence of organic compounds that interact with silverto form AgNPs. The FTIR spectrum of AgNPs shows peaks at 3406 cm−1, 2353 cm−1, 1615 cm−1and 1021 cm−1. The XRD result showed that the AgNPs are face centred cubic crystallinestructures having a size of 20.8 nm. The synthesized AgNps are more potent in Gram-negative bacteria than Gram-positive bacteria.
KEYWORDS: Silver nanoparticles; Stephania abyssinica; antimicrobial activity; green synthesis; spectral analysis

The use of metal nanoparticles as antibiotics for resistant pathogens has become a current topic of research. Biosyn-thesized nanoparticles are promising drugs as antibacterial agents by inhibiting bacteria from infectious diseases. Thisstudy aimed at the synthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from AgNO 3 solution and Sida schim-periana Hochst. ex A. Rich leaves extract. The synthesized AgNPs were characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR),Ultraviolet–Visible (UV–Vis) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectroscopic techniques and evaluated for antibacterial activi-ties against Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coliand Klebsiella Pneumonia) bacteria by the disc diffusion method. The result indicated an initial color change that wasobserved below 400 nm for the leaves extract and 429 nm for AgNPs in the UV–Vis band supporting the synthesis ofsilver nanoparticles. The FTIR peaks at 3447, 1638 and 1413 cm −1 predict the hydroxyl, carbonyl and unsaturated C–Cbonds, respectively, in the plant leaves extract. The XRD analysis showed that the synthesized AgNPs were crystalline innature and face-centered cubic (FCC) structure with an average particle size of 26.27 nm. Furthermore, the synthesizednanoparticles showed antimicrobial activity to both types of bacteria, more significant being on Gram-negative bacteria(E. coli). In conclusion, the leaves extract of Sida schimperiana Hochst. ex A. Rich plant contains bioactive molecules thatare used in the reduction and stabilization of AgNPs as potential antibacterial agents.Keywords: Biosynthesis · Phytochemicals · Antimicrobial resistance · Medicinal plant · Resistant pathogens

This research aimed at evaluation of a given land resource suitable for selected rain fed crops production (maltbarley, wheat and teff ) in Ambesh watershed. It also quantified suitable land and classified into the land mappingunits (LMUs), and presents a land suitability map. Land suitability assessment (LSA) made using climatic condition,topography, soil physical and chemical properties as a major factor integrated with a multi criteria decision making(MCDM) analysis in Ambesh watershed. Fourteen composite soil samples were taken by categorizing the water-shed into different land mapping units (LMUs) and analyzed in a soil laboratory. Climatic data, rainfall was obtainedfrom two meteorological stations nearby to the study area. Temperature data derived from Landsat 8 satellite ther-mal bands data. Data obtained from the soil laboratory and others were finally analyzed using ArcGIS environmentand priority estimation tool (PriEsT) software’s. Weighted Sum Overlay was implemented to investigate the final LSAmap of the watershed. Results revealed that LMUs, VRe–LPq and LPK.Pq–FLc LMUs has higher overall suitability for allthe selected rain fed crops. However, LMUs (VRe–NTu and NTu–VRe) has lower overall suitability values particularlyfor S1 suitability class (0.05% and 10.6%, respectively). The least suitable LMU is VRe–NTu with 0.05% S 1 suitability classand above 99% of the land laid under the suitability classes of moderately suitable, marginally suitable and not suit-able for the selected land utilization types. Moreover, about 219.06 ha (17.76%), 217.6 ha (17.64%), 168.9 ha (13.7%),of land are highly suitable for malt barley, teff and wheat crop production, respectively. In conclusion, during MCDM,classifying the land into closer homogeneities (LMU) an important application of LSA integrated with remote sens-ing and GIS for a better decision making. Meanwhile, majority (above two third’s) of the land in the watershedis under moderate and marginally suitable, it needs intensive land management activities to increase the land quali-ties and obtain high yields. LSA recommended before land utilization decision has to be made. It is also importantto classifying the land into LMUs to make it more homogeneous for sample taking and reducing the prestigious soillaboratory analysis costs.Keywords LMUs, Land suitability assessment, Malt Barley, RS, Teff, Weighted sum, Wheat

Eucalyptus was frst introduced to Ethiopia in the late 19th century to address the scarcity of frewood and construction wood in thecapital city. Since then, it has spread across the country and has become an important source of income for many households whilealso reducing the need for deforestation. Despite concerns raised by environmentalists about its eco-hydrological impact, theplantation has expanded to cover a vast area of the nation, including farmlands and mountainous regions. Currently, around506,000 hectares of land in Ethiopia are covered by Eucalyptus plantations. Te growth of Eucalyptus plantations can be attributed tovarious socioeconomic, ecological, and biological factors, including the increasing demand for wood and wood products. However,this growth has also led to negative environmental consequences such as reduced surface and groundwater fow, decreased cropproductivity, soil fertility degradation and depletion, and high water consumption, which can result in water scarcity. To address theseenvironmental impacts, it is essential to select appropriate species and sites and implement proper silvicultural and land use planningbefore planting. Additionally, promoting renewable energy sources and planting environmentally sound fast-growing indigenousand exotic tree species can help reduce the adverse efects of Eucalyptus on the environment.Keywords: deforestation; environmental impacts; Eucalyptus plantation; indigenous and exotic tree species

Eucalyptus camaldulensis is commonly planted on farmland in highland Ethiopia because of its high economic proftability.However, the expansion of woodlot plantations has led to a decline in crop growth and yield, which negatively afects foodsecurity. To address this issue, this study aimed to examine the efects of Eucalyptus camaldulensis woodlot expansion on cropproduction and food security in South Achefer. Data were collected from 180 respondents using a three-stage sampling techniquefor the four kebeles in the district. Te survey data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, and a binary logitregression model using SPSS software version 24. Tis study found that most households (87%) perceived a rapid increase inEucalyptus woodlot expansion. Te allocation of more land for Eucalyptus woodlot expansion was positively and signifcantlyafected by family size, landholding size, total annual income, and availability of unproductive land. Additionally, the studyrevealed that Eucalyptus woodlots highly compete with nearly all grown crops for nutrients and moisture. Tis causes a reductionin yield from one to four quintals compared to the normal crop grown far from the Eucalyptus tree. Approximately three-fourths(71%) of the sampled farmers did not obtain stable food annually and were considered food insecure. To alleviate food insecurity,this study suggests that stakeholders should focus on improving livelihood alternatives rather than expanding Eucalyptuswoodlots.Keywords: access; availability; binary logistic regression; stability; utilization; woodlot

This study was conducted to estimate the technical, allocative and economic efficiency levels, identify the determinant factors of technical and allocative inefficiencies, Debre Markos City and Sinan District of the Amhara National Regional State, Ethiopia. The data were collected from 397 smallholder sheep fatting farmers in all kebeles in debremarkos and two kebeles in sinan district of the study area. Maximum likelihood techniques were used to estimate a Truncated-Normal Model production frontier. The mean estimated technical, allocative and economic efficiencies were 83.07, 91.84.61 and 76.5 respectively with consecutive SD of .1645 , 0.1490 and 0.1985. The estimated results provide evidence that the sheep fatting farmers are technical, allocatively and economically inefficient. The coefficients estimated from the Truncated-Normal Model stochastic production frontier model show the effect of different inputs on sheep fatting farmers. Ln (fodder) has a positive coefficient of .0481792, significant at the 1% level, meaning that the improvement in feed quality increases read met output. Likewise, Ln (heredsize) showed a highly significant coefficient value of .9518208 significant at the 1%, showing its importance to increase fatting sheep.Also, Ln (cost fodder) has a negative coefficient of 1.628079, significant at the 1% . Likewise, Ln (cost of animal health) showed a highly significant coefficient value of 1.838712significant at 10%. The most vital factors include sex, education, age, family size of household, availability of feed supply, extension and training on significant effect on technical inefficient of small scale sheep fatting farmers. The most vital factors include education, non-farm activities, Total livestock unit, availability of feed supply, family size of the household and training on significant effect on allocative inefficient of small scale sheep fatting farmers.The government and the concerned body should be encouraging sheep fatting farmers to grow, properly harvest and store high-protein fodder on their farms reduce reliance on expensively purchased fodder. The government and the concerned body should be expanding animal health centers to keep animal health for fulfill small scale sheep fatting sheep to bring productive the fatting sheep and improve the livelihood. Extension of the household has been shown to significantly improve technical efficiency by providing advice the way of fatting, how to feed

The study is to examine the status and identify factors that affect the participation of dairy cooperatives and its impact on household income. The study employed both quantitative and qualitative data. The two-stage stratified sampling method was employed purposive sampling technique was used to select dairy cooperative for the study. A total of 582 households were sampled using proportion to the sample size methods and the study unites were selected through systematic sample random sampling technique. Primary and secondary data sources were consulted to collect the necessary data. Focus group discussion, Key informant interview, and interview schedule survey questionnaire were the primary data collection methods used in the study. Descriptive and econometric analyses were employed to analyze the collected data. Binary logit model was employed to assess variables affecting the participation of dairy cooperative and its impact on household income by using propensity score much.The household Age, Family size, fair price of milk, sex, TLU, number of milking cow, credit access and distance from the home to diary cooperative office significantly influenced the decision to participate dairy cooperative. Age, fair price of milk, credit access, number of milking cows, sex and credit access positively influenced the participation whereas family size and distance from the home to dairy cooperative office negatively influenced the participate of in dairy cooperative . The study found that membership of dairy cooperative has significantly increased on income of households. Thus, farmers should be encouraged to participate dairy cooperative. Therefore, the government and other concerned bodies should focus encourage households to promote the membership of dairy cooperative.

Agro-nanotechnology—the application of nanotechnology in agriculture—holds immense promise for addressing main challengesin African agriculture and promoting sustainable development. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of how agro-nanotechnology is being utilized across Africa, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize various aspects of agricultural practiceson the continent. Firstly, the utilization of nanomaterials such as nanoparticles, nanofertilizers, and nanopesticides offersopportunities for enhancing nutrient management, improving soil health, and increasing crop productivity in diverseagroecosystems across Africa. Nanofertilizers, with their controlled release mechanisms, facilitate efficient nutrient uptake byplants, thereby reducing nutrient losses and enhancing fertilizer use efficiency, which is crucial for resource-constrainedsmallholder farmers. Nanopesticides suggest improved efficacy in pest and disease control, reducing environmental harmcompared to traditional pesticides. Their targeted delivery also minimizes off-target effects, which is crucial for Africa’s foodsecurity. Nanosensors also enable real-time monitoring of soil and crop health, enhancing precision agriculture. Nanotechnologyin postharvest management reduces food losses and improves safety. However, its adoption requires careful consideration ofsocioeconomic and regulatory factors to ensure equitable access and environmental safety. Collaborative efforts involvingpolicymakers, researchers, farmers, and other stakeholders are crucial for harnessing the benefits of agro-nanotechnology whileaddressing potential risks and concerns. In conclusion, the integration of agro-nanotechnology into African agriculture presents atransformative opportunity to enhance productivity, resilience, and sustainability, contributing to the continent’s efforts towardachieving food security, economic development, and environmental conservation.Keywords: agro-nanotechnology; nanofertilizers; nanopesticides; nanosensors; precision agriculture

Intercropping is an essential farming system that combines multiple crop speciessimultaneously. in ethiopia, pepper and Black cumin are interplanted with various crops,influenced by diverse environmental and agronomic factors. this review examines the impactof intercropping pepper and Black cumin on the performance of component crops andsystem productivity in ethiopia. Farmers in tropical regions practice intercropping widely toreduce dependence on monoculture, manage risks from pests, diseases, and climate variability,and enhance resilience. By integrating pepper and Black cumin with other crops, small‑scalefarmers in developing countries like ethiopia diversify crop production and improve yields.Most smallholder farmers in ethiopia cultivate plots smaller than one hectare. the landequivalent ratio is a key measure for evaluating intercropping efficiency. However, indicessuch as relative Yield total, Staple land equivalency ratio, Area time equivalency ratio, andArea Harvest equivalency ratio are also applied globally. these indices help assess the benefitsof intercropping in terms of land use and time management. to maximize productivity,farmers must carefully select crops that balance resource competition, resist pests anddiseases, and ensure yields with superior quality. promoting sustainable intercropping practicescan boost agricultural output and contribute to food security in ethiopia and similar regions.
KEYWORDS: indices; multiple cropping; sole cropping; spatial arrangement

Abstract
Carrot is a significant root crop in Ethiopia but its production faces challenges such as nutrient loss and unfavorable growth conditions, which hinder its productivity. The objective of this review was to evaluate the impact of nitrogen fertilizer rates on carrot yield in Ethiopia. A systematic review using databases like PubMed and Scopus focused on peer-reviewed, English-language studies with quantitative data on nitrogen fertilizer and carrot yield in Ethiopia, excluding non-peer-reviewed articles and those lacking quantitative data or in other languages. Globally, carrot yields are 30–100 tons per hectare, but only 5.5 tons in Ethiopia. Carrots are rich in vitamins A, C, and B, proteins, minerals, and fiber, with vitamin C boosting immunity and aiding in wound healing and allergy management. Meanwhile, vitamin A plays a crucial role in vision, bone growth, immune function, and reproduction. It is a rich source of carotenoids and anthocyanins. The application of nitrogen fertilizer significantly improved carrot yield (root length, fresh weight, and dry weight). In Ethiopia, the use of nitrogen fertilizer affects the marketability and total yield of carrots, with small-scale farmers employing diverse rates for cultivation. Current recommendations suggest 69 kg/ha of phosphorus (P2O5) and 46 kg/ha of nitrogen, but farmers often do not follow these guidelines. In conclusion, optimizing nitrogen fertilizer usage is crucial for enhancing carrot yields among small farmers, underscoring the need for government support to tailor recommendations to local soil conditions and boost productivity.

Keywords: carrot yield; carrot production; nitrogen fertilizer; nutrient management