Exploratory Assessment of Poly house Farming among Emerging Farmers: Evidence from Dera woreda, South Gondar, Ethiopia

Abstract

Poly house technology offers advanced climate control, leading to increased yields, extended growing seasons, and improved product quality. In developing countries like Ethiopia, the potential of poly house remains underexplored, especially at the smallholder level, despite initial NGO-supported initiatives. This study aims to assess farmer’s perception of poly house production system, to identify major challenges and opportunities associated with poly house production system and evaluate the economic viability of poly house vegetable production among smallholder farmers in western Amhara region, Ethiopia. Purposive and census sampling technique were used based on the potential in poly house farming. Employing a mixed-methods approach, data were collected through surveys, key informant interviews, and field observations, with analyses including descriptive statistics, SWOT, and cost-benefit analysis. Findings indicate that while farmers recognize the benefits of poly houses in enhancing productivity and pest management, high initial investment costs, and technical knowledge gaps, hinder wider scaling. The cost-benefit analysis for tomato cultivation under poly house conditions reveals positive economic returns, but emphasizes the need for yield optimization, cost reduction, and market stabilization. The study highlights the importance of policy support, capacity building, and infrastructural improvements to overcome the challenges faced by farmers . Overall, poly house technology shows significant potential to improve smallholder livelihoods, food security, and sustainable vegetable production in Ethiopia, provided strategic interventions address economic and technical challenges.