The role of National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS) programme on performance of small-scale farmers in Uganda:

Abstract

This study examines the role of National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS) programme on performance of small scale farmers in Uganda basing on Kamukuzi division as a case study. It was based on three specific objectives which included: To examine the relationship between commercialization of agriculture and the performance of small scale farmers, to assess the relationship between food security and the performance of small scale farmers and to evaluate the relationship between market access and the performance of small scale farmers. The study employed a case-study research design using both the qualitative and quantitative approaches. The researcher used interview guides and the questionnaires for data collection. The researcher also based the study on previous literature. In the findings, the research revealed: that new breeds and improved seeds are crucial for the transformation of agriculture from subsistence farming to commercialized farming, that there is increased food security among the NAADS beneficiaries and that giving the small scale farmers market information helps in reducing the rate of risk faced by the farmers. The researcher concludes that commercialization, market access and food security contribute to the welfare, income levels and levels of production of the small scale farmers. The researcher also recommends that the NAADS Implementation Guidelines be followed strictly in order to meet its mandate.