This study explores the determinants of smallholder farmers’ land allocation to grass pea production in two districts of the Ethiopian highlands. Using a mixed-methods approach (household survey, focus group discussions, key informant interviews), the study employed the Heckman selection model to analyze quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative data. Results show that household landholding size, age of household head, and the head’s primary school attendance positively affect land allocated to grass pea. Drought tolerance of grass pea encouraged its cultivation, but access to health and farm extension services negatively impacted land allocation. The study concludes that improved market access, education, credit facilities, family planning, and extension services are needed to diversify crops and reduce grass pea dependence, thereby preventing lathyrism.

Shimeles Damene, Dawit Diriba Guta, Mohammed Assen, Poshendra Satyal