Pulses contribute to smallholder income, as a higher-value crop than cereals, and to diet, as a cost-effective source of protein that accounts for approximately 15 percent of protein intake. Moreover, pulses offer natural soil maintenance benefits through nitrogen-fixing, which improves yields of cereals through crop rotation, and can also result in savings for smallholder farmers from less fertilizer use. Pulses also contribute significantly to Ethiopia’s balance of payments. They are the third-largest export crop after coffee and sesame, contributing USD 90 million to export earnings in 2007/08.

Through productivity and market improvements, the critical role of pulses in smallholder livelihood and food security can be expanded. The current productivity of pulses falls significantly below the demonstrated potential.