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Background Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) belongs to the family Solanaceae is one of the most popular and most processed vegetable crops worldwide with a great nutritional contribution to the human diet. Though the demand for tomato products is increasing, its production is constricted by shortage of quality seeds due mainly to lack of appropriate seed extraction method. Inadequate seed extraction method also causes extensive disease epidemics. Conversely, empirical evidences are scanty on instant and latent effects of seed extraction methods. This study was therefore initiated to evaluate the effects of extraction methods on the physiological quality of seeds and seedlings of tomato. Result Results revealed that the highest germination percent (99.33 and 89.76% under laboratory and field conditions respectively) was obtained at 2% HCl for 60 minutes. Whereas, the maximum weight of 1000 seeds (4.277 g) was found at 1% of HCl for 30 minutes. Mycoflora load was maximum (36%) at fermentation for 72 hours. Yet, no mycoflora was detected from higher concentrations of HCl acid greater than 2% and time durations longer than 60 minutes. Conclusion the major seed quality parameters such as seed germination percent, seedling length, seedling fresh weight, seedling dry weight, and vigour indices were significantly higher at extraction method of 2% HCl for 60 minutes. Thus, it can be concluded that the maximum physiological seed quality and best performance of seedlings of tomato obtained from 2% HCl for 60 minutes seed extraction method of tomato.

In Ethiopia, food insecurity is a major problem, which affects the livelihood of rural communities. Hence, this study was conducted in Central and North Gondar Zones with the main aim of analysing causes and coping strategies of food insecurity. Primary data were collected through an interview schedule, key informant interviews and focus group discussions. A total of 500 sample respondents were selected through a systematic sampling technique. Data were analysed through simple descriptive statistics and a chi-square test. Frequently used coping strategies by sample respondents were planting early maturing crop (82.4%), turning to low-quality and cheaper foodstuff (81.2%), changing cropping pattern (78.6%), sale of livestock (75.6%) and purchasing food on cash 75.0%. Sex, educational status, fertiliser utilisation, livelihood diversification and off-farm activities had an association and significant with a food security status of sample respondents at p ≤ 0.01. Furthermore, farmland and on-farm were significantly associated with food security status at 0.01 < p ≤ 0.05 and 0.05 < p ≤ 0.10, respectively. To ensure food security, different organisations that support rural households should be aware of peak food insecurity seasons. Moreover, due attention should be paid to practical-oriented education and training to diversify the household’s livelihood.