Master of Science in Agro-Ecology (Dissertations)

Socio economic factors for orange fleshed sweet potato adoption in the small holder farming sector Northern

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Socio economic factors for orange fleshed sweet potato adoption in the small holder farming sector Northern Aber, Stella Background: The introduction of the improved Orange fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) into the smallholder farming sector was predicated on the premise that the types are important due to their nutritional benefits, are suitable for the farming system, and will be readily adopted by the farmers. However, there are numerous other issues, some of which are under the farmers' control and others of which are not, that may hinder the adoption of this technique. Objective: Examine the socioeconomic elements that influence the adoption of orange fleshed sweet potato in northern Uganda's small holder farming sector. Methods: This cross-sectional community-based study was done among 399 farmers in northern Uganda. Data was collected using s semi structured questionnaire and analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics. Binary logistic regression analysis was employed to assess socioeconomic factors associated with adoption of OFSP varieties, p<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Out of the 399 farmers, 383 fully participated in the study. Majority 227(73.9%) were female, 134(43.6%) aged 36 to 59 years, and 228(74.8%) married. The adoption rate of orange fleshed sweet potato variants was 21.5% and was associated with getting information for agricultural extension workers (AOR: 4.087, 95% CI: 1.354, 12.336, p=0.012), being in a community group (AOR: 2.065, 95% CI: 1.105, 3.860, p=0.023), keeping records (AOR: 0.324, 95% CI: 0.144, 0.727, p=0.006), and not engaging in other activities (AOR: 2.072, 95% CI: 1.121, 3.828, p=0.020). Most of the farmers 75(98.7%) were market vendors, 64(84.2%) sell products in form of tubers, and 17(22.4%) sell to individual customers. Conclusion: The present study indicates that one in five of small-scale farmers in northern Uganda practice OFSP cultivation. The study also indicates that farmers practiced OFSP farming for home consumption using local technologies and practices that are easily accessed to them. These results necessitatecontinuous provision of more information to scale up and sustain production and consumption of the OFSP. Keywords: adoption,farmer, multiplication, orange fleshed sweet potatoes Musinguzi Simon Peter; Musinguzi Simon Peter

Risks undertaken by farmers who use Biorationals in banana production

Sun, 01 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Risks undertaken by farmers who use Biorationals in banana production Charles, Ssegirinya Bananas (Musa spp.) are among the most important food crops in Uganda; however, banana production is declining, primarily due to pests such as banana weevil (Cosmopolites sordidus) and banana bacterial wilt (BBW). These pests, exacerbated by low soil fertility and diseases, significantly impacts productivity. While chemical control methods are favored for their ease and speed, they are costly, harmful to the environment, and increasingly ineffective due to pest resistance. As a result, there is a rising interest in ecologically sound alternatives, such as biorational insecticides, including tobacco trash, wood ash, pepper, and urine. Despite their growing use, empirical data on the associated risks are lacking. This study employs a descriptive research design to assess the risks of biorational usage, farmers’ perceptions, and risk mitigation strategies. Findings reveal significant risks, including hormesis, insecticide resistance, unintended effects on non-target species, and potential adverse health impacts. Notably, 99% of respondents acknowledge the risks of biorational use, yet 98% are willing to accept these risks for greater profitability, with 97% citing success as a motive and 96% considering biorationals more effective than conventional pesticides. Risk mitigation measures reported include deep cultivation (69%), proper mixing (47%), and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). The study recommends rigorous testing of biorational products prior to market launch to ensure safety and efficacy. Bwogi George Vianney; Bwogi George Vianney

Contribution of farmer managed natural regeneration on maize productivity among farmers, Kakumiro

Sun, 01 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Contribution of farmer managed natural regeneration on maize productivity among farmers, Kakumiro Sensio, Ikiriza The study was limited to examining concept of farmer managed natural regeneration of tree species richness and tree species evenness together with farmer perceptions on maize yield, quality and stimulated growth. A sample size of 291 maize farmers was used in the study. A mixed method of quantitative and qualitative methods was used in the study. The study used purposive sampling during the survey and identification of the study sites. Tree parameters (species name, height and DBH) was used on the Eight study plots during the study. Field tools like tape measure, range finder, diameter tape and GPS were used. The most common tree species on the farms among the farmers of Nalweyo Sub County were Markhamia lutea that made 97.3%, Albizia species at 26.3% and Maesposi eminii at 20.6%. Analysis of the coefficients FMNR tree species richness and maize productivity was statistically insignificant and positively influence Maize productivity with β = 0.179, P=0.483>0.05. Coefficients of Tree species evenness and maize productivity was statistically insignificant and negatively influence Maize productivity with β = -0.312, P=0.360>0.05. Coefficients Farmer Perceptions and maize productivity was statistically significant and positively influence Maize productivity with β = 0.643, P=0.047<0.05. The study recommended proper selection of the right tree species that grow together with maize, enrichment planting for diversified eco systems and adoption of tree management practices like pruning. There is also need for future research on Markhamia lutea especially on its ecological uses at farm level. Continuous Mindset change through sensitization of farmers about the importance s of trees on farm Gerald Lubega; Gerald Lubega

Effects of rain-fed cropland on sorghum productivity among smallholder farmers

Sun, 01 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Effects of rain-fed cropland on sorghum productivity among smallholder farmers Jasper, OKello Sorghum is a critical food security crop in sub-humid and semi-arid regions of Sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, and Latin America. In Uganda, it ranks second behind maize as a staple food, particularly in the north where it sustains the population. Sorghum cultivation covers roughly 491,911 hectares, yielding 268,493 metric tons. However, average yields are low (around 0.5 tons per hectare) due to dependence on rainfall patterns. Changing weather patterns and limited land availability further complicate these challenges. This study investigated the effects of rainfed cropland on sorghum productivity in Uganda's northern Oyam and Lira Districts. The researchers sought to characterize sorghum productivity in rain-fed cropland, determine production levels, and assess productive efficiency among smallholder farmers. The descriptive research employed both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. Data analysis using SPSS software helped characterize sorghum production and productivity efficiency. Key findings reveal that several sorghum varieties are produced at various levels as rainfed crops on small plots averaging 1-3 acres. Common practices include crop rotation and double ploughing. However, a significant portion of farmers rely on unspecified sorghum varieties. Insufficient rainfall was the primary constraint, followed by pests and diseases. Production levels and costs fluctuated between seasons, with most farmers experiencing low rainfall, pests, and some hail damage. These findings suggest opportunities to improve yields through optimized land use, improved seeds, and crop protection strategies. Land area, fertilizer application, high-quality seeds, and pesticide use all had statistically significant positive impacts on sorghum yields. Musinguzi Simonpeter; Musinguzi Simonpeter