The Ethiopian Weed Science Society (EWSS) was established on 24 November 1992. EWSS is a non-profit, nation-wide scientific and educational organization, open to all who are interested in weeds and their control. Its objectives are crafted to encourage the development of knowledge concerning weed science; promote unity in research, extension, education, legislation, regulation, and other matters pertaining to weeds; facilitate and assist professional contacts between individuals and organizations; and publish and document weed science research results and making information available to users.

EWSS held its 10th annual conference on 5-6 August 2010 at the headquarters of EIAR. The theme of the conference is “Adaptation to Challenges of Climate Changes in Relation to Weeds and Weed Management in Ethiopia.” Participants of the Conference were welcomed by Dr Taye Tesema, President of EWSS. The Conference was opened by the State Minister of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development Dr Abera Deressa. In his address Dr Abera emphasized that there are a good number of recommendations on weed management produced by researchers. The existence of professional associations in the agriculture is essential ingredient to better align researchable weed related problems, concretize research generated weed management recommendations and above all to boost the knowledge of the public on issues related to weeds at large. He also noted that farmers are applying most of these recommendations in their farming systems. However, in his words, the State Minister boldly stated that more is expected from both researchers and extension actors by way of disseminating the recommendations to a very wide scale with a sense of urgency to cope with the current economic development trend of the Country.

During the occasion, EWSS recognized the foremost contributors and supporters towards the realization of the 10th Annual Conference. Accordingly, Metahara Sugar Factory, Bale Agricultural Development Enterprise, Chemtex PLC, Lions International PLC, Ethiopian Sugar Development Agency and Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research were recognized for covering the cost of the Tenth Annual Conference. Different agricultural research centers for their vital support, and Information Communications and Public Relations of EIAR for the unreserved technical support.  As a phenomenal annual tradition of EWSS, i.e., recognizing individuals for their utmost contributions, the 10th Annual Conference decorated Rezene Fessehaie with a grand trophy for his commendable contributions in establishing, sustaining and strengthening of EWSS.

Several scientific and technical papers on weed science and management were presented and discussed. It was also realized that the third issue of Ethiopian Journal of weed Management (EJWM), the official publication of the society is published (call 0911186486 for more information on EJWM).

Abebe Kirub, ICPR Directorate

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it