Biological nitrogen fixation research and technology assessment for Egypt: I. Scientists, publications, and extension

ABSTRACT As an interdisciplinary team with expertise in soil microbiology, soil fertility and management, agronomic practices, and Rhizobium inoculant production, we assessed biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) research and technology in Egypt. Personnel involved in BNF within the Ministry of Agriculture, the Faculties of Agriculture at several universities, and agricultural enterprises within the private sector were interviewed. Active BNF scientists and support staff were inventoried and extension programs in progress were reviewed. The amount and kinds of knowledge on BNF in Egyptian agriculture were determined from an in‐country literature search. Information was obtained for crop acreages, yields, and agronomic practices. Attitudes and recommendations were obtained from scientists administrators, and farmers. Although Egypt has a large number of well‐trained scientists, and past BNF research is extensive, Egypt is not capitalizing on the potential of its scientists to increase farm production. Scientists and publications are oriented toward basic research rather than toward solving BNF problems in the field. Extension reorganization is needed to bring BNF technology to farmers. Presently, extension personnel are not consulted by research scientists to evaluate problems and formulate problem‐solving research. Similarly, farmers do not rely on extension personnel for technology transfer. Constraints on the transfer of BNF technology include inefficient organization, inadequate budgets, lack of field experience, and a lack of effective Rhizobium inoculants. Recommendations are made for increasing the effectiveness of extension programs.