Determinants and Constraints of Pulse Production and Consumption among Farming Households of Ethiopia

In low income countries the agricultural sector is essential to growth, poverty reduction, and food security. Pulse crops are important components of crop production in Ethiopia's smallholders agriculture, providing an economic advantage to small farm holders as an alternative source of protein and other nutrients, cash income, that seeks to address food security. This study sought to gain an understanding of determinants and constraints to production and usage of pulse crops based on data collected in 2013 from 256 households in Oromia region of Ethiopia. Determinants of production and consumption were identified using logistic regression. The result showed that Haricot bean was produced, but not widely consumed. Lentil was widely consumed but not produced. Production of haricot bean was hampered by problems related to weed control, disease, pests, yield and soil quality, a seasonal market, and a shortage of farmland. Consumption of haricot bean was low due to perceived gastrointestinal distress after eating and the culture of it being a taboo food. Logistic regression showed household head educational status and age, land size and household size statistically significantly (p-value<0.05) affected household pulse (haricot bean and lentil) consumption frequency. Agronomic, market, culture and household characteristics related determinants and constraints were identified. Also a mismatch of production and consumption was observed in the study. It is recommended that agronomic and market concerns related to production of haricot bean and other pulses be addressed and that household food preparation techniques for pulses that reduce gastrointestinal symptoms be promoted and evaluated.