Summary report of the horticulture improvement and training subproject (HITS) in the Yemen Arab Republic

Report covers the period 1983-1989. All aspects of the SP were successful. Two horticulture stations -- the Al-Irra Deciduous Station and the Al Jarouba Tropical/Subtropical Station -- were established as model nurseries with budwood multiplication blocks, rootstock stooling beds, demonstration plots, varietal testing, and extensive training facilities. The training of qualified technicians to run the two stations was probably the SP"s most significant achievement. The SP made major progress in strengthening the capability of MAF"s plant protection department to ensure the production, importation, and distribution of insect-free trees and vines to farmers and to identify and control diseases. MAF staff participated in U.S. and third country short-term training courses in inspection and quarantine. The SP trained more than 700 extension agents, MAF personnel, Ibb Secondary Agricultural Institute students, farmers, and others in basic nursery practices, fruit production, and plant protection. It also provided degree training to five participants, three of whom have already returned and are now in decisionmaking positions. The SP also: produced some 60 instructional pamphlets and videotapes for use in extension and training; identified over 15 high-yielding, quality deciduous fruit varieties; produced/imported and distributed several hundred thousand fruit trees; and established 36 demonstration plots throughout the country, at which several field days and workshops were held.