The study was initiated with the objective of assessing genetic variability and trait association using 6x6 simple lattice design in Sekota district during main cropping season in 2021. Both plot and plant based data were collected and analysis following the simple lattice design guide. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed the presence of significant differences among genotypes for days to heading, days to maturity, plant height, spike length, number of seeds per spike, thousand seed weight, biological yield, yield, harvest index and protein content. 4451.4 kg ha-1 was the highest grain yield while the lowest was 2273.2kg ha-1 with a mean of 3092.12 kg ha-1. 17 genotypes (50%) were higher yielder than average mean 3092.12 kg ha-1. 4 genotypes (23.53%) were both high-yielder and relatively high in grain protein content. Moderate genotypic coefficient of variation coupled with high heritability and high genetic advance as a percentage of the mean were obtained for plant height, seeds per spike, biomass, grain yield and harvest index. Grain protein content had a low GCV, moderate heritability and low GAM, indicating a strong influence of environment on grain quality and less variation among genotypes in their grain protein content. Plant height, spike length, thousand kernel weight, biomass and harvest index had positive significant correlations with grain yield at both genotypic and phenotypic levels. Therefore, selection and hybridisation based on the desired traits could be possible for the improvement of durum wheat in the study area. For reliable results and recommendations, it is advisable to repeat the experiment for at least one more season over locations.

Keywords: durum wheat, Genetic variability, genetic parameter, protein content, pasta making