Afghanistan cucurbit rootfuel project report

Two species, Citrullus colocynthis and Cucurbita foetidissima, were tested in experimental plots. Even though these tests were conducted under less than ideal conditions due to external factors, they provided helpful agronomic information on the factors of soil, water, pests, and temperature (time of planting). One of the trial plots was planted in late October so the dry winter season affected it adversely, although some plants germinated and grew for a period. The plan to replant in March 1991 was frustrated by the Gulf War and by accidents like lost seed and mice attack on shipped seed. A second small trial was planted in April which gave insights into soil and water conditions. Experimental trial results are summarized and recommendations are offered in this report. Currently, new planting trials are underway in the Northwest Province and Balochistan, which will provide further knowledge in varied ecosystems. Seeds were also taken into Afghanistan for trial planting in eight or ten provinces under natural conditions. By 7/92 results should be in from these trials. Meanwhile, other arid land species have been identified which may show promise. Cooking tests conducted by Afghan cooks, both male and female, revealed that rootfuel is culturally and technically acceptable when used in traditional stoves or fireplaces. Cooks responded positively to the ignitability, cooking time, smoke factor, and general behavior of the alternative fuel. Rootfuel was perceived as a viable and desirable option to woodfuel, crop residues, and animal-dung cakes. A video tape was made of the cooking tests, as well as the search for local species. Initial training of Afghan agricultural officers was carried out in 10/90. During this training, a handbook on rootfuel was developed. In 8/91, a second training program was given to 20 Afghan agricultural officers, using the handbook and video tape. A final translation and publication of the handbook in Farsi was finished. This handbook is appended, with its English draft version. A study of the ecosystems of Afghanistan based on data from FAO and discussions with Afghan agriculturalists resulted in identifying the regions in Afghanistan that would be potential sites for growing rootfuel. Critical factors are soil class, temperature (growing degree days), and water (rainfall or irrigation). Seeds have been sent to some of these regions for field trials. Since the pilot trials were incomplete and further tests are being carried out both in Pakistan (in two provinces) and in Afghanistan, and since further work is needed on other species, a follow-on program for another year is recommended. Criteria and terms of reference for this follow-on program are included. (Author abstract)