Article

A candidate Ethiopian mustard (Brassica carinata) genotype, ACC 20131, was evaluated across multi-location and multi-year trials and demonstrated statistically superior performance in seed yield, oil yield, and associated agronomic traits relative to standard checks. The genotype exhibited stable phenotypic performance and broad adaptability under diverse highland agro-ecological conditions. Based on its consistent superiority, ACC 20131 was advanced to the Variety Verification Trial in 2022, where it underwent formal field evaluation by the Technical Committee of the National Variety Release Committee (NVRC). Following comprehensive agronomic assessment and verification of its distinctiveness, uniformity, and stability, the genotype was officially released in 2023 under the varietal designation ‘Malkaa’. The variety expresses moderate to high levels of field tolerance to major diseases, including Alternaria leaf spot, Sclerotinia stem rot, and white rust. ‘Malkaa’ is specifically recommended for cultivation in the highland agro-ecologies of Bale and similar agro ecologies and is currently maintained by the Sinana Agricultural Research Center as part of its formal breeding and seed maintenance program.