Research Article

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Production in Eritrea: Trends, Challenges and Future Prospects

Tesfamichael Abraha¹*, Fathi I. A. Brima¹ and and Bokretsion Habte²

¹Department of Agronomy, Hamelmalo Agricultural College.  Po.Box 1224, Keren, Eritrea

²Department of Agricultural Extension, Crop and Animal Production Division, MoA, Asmara

*Corresponding author e-mail: tesfaniglusi65@gmail.com

(Received: 15/012/2025; Revised: 20/04/2026; Accepted: 16/06/2026; Published: 20/06/2026)

ABSTRACT

Wheat is a major staple crop in Eritrea, contributing nearly 60% of the daily calorie intake of the population and playing a crucial role in national food security. A survey of 120 wheat-growing farmers from the South and Central regions was conducted to identify production constraints and opportunities for sustainable wheat cultivation. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire covering socio-economic characteristics, farming systems, seed sources, cultural practices, utilization patterns, and production challenges. Results showed that 65% of farmers were smallholders with farm sizes ranging from 0.5 to 2.0 ha, while 58% cultivated wheat primarily for household consumption. Most farmers practiced hand broadcasting of seed, regular weeding, and crop rotation; however, fertilizer application, irrigation, moisture conservation, and pest management practices were limited. Moisture stress (54.2%) and insect infestations in the field and storage were identified as major causes of low productivity. Marketing constraints also affected wheat production, with 81% of respondents reporting low and unstable market prices as the primary challenge, followed by lack of capital and labor shortages (73.3%). Eritrea possesses valuable wheat landraces with unique traits for tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses. Harnessing these genetic resources through breeding and introgression into improved varieties could enhance productivity, resilience, and long-term sustainability of wheat production in Eritrea.

Keywords: Eritrea; wheat production; survey; constraint; opportunity; productivity Utilization

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