Genotype by Environment Interaction and Grain Yield Stability of Sesame (<i>Sesamum indicum </i>L<i>.</i>) Genotypes in Hararghe Zones, Eastern Oromia

Sesame is one of the oldest and most significant oilseed crops widely grown in tropical and subtropical regions around the world and is cultivated for its oil-rich seeds. Multi-environment yield trials are widely used for selecting superior sesame advanced lines to be released as a new variety for target environments in Ethiopia sesame breeding programs. The study was conducted for two years at Mechara, Milkaye, Ibsa and Fadis in 2021, 2022 cropping season. Total of 18 sesame genotypes including standard checks were planted in Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. The objective of the experiment to estimate the magnitude of GEI and to select stable and adaptable genotypes for the target environment(s). AMMI analysis of variance revealed that, there were highly significant (p< 0.001) differences among environments, genotypes and genotype by environment interaction for grain yield. Genotype G15 (972kgha<sup>-1</sup>) was showed the mean yield performance across the test environment with 46.67% yield advantage over average yield, the most stable. Milkaye was identified as high yielding and best desirable testing environment for sesame production. Therefore, genotype G15 was proposed as candidate variety for verification trial and possible release and it can be used as parent material in the future breeding program.