Determinants of cohesion in smallholder farmer groups in Uganda

David Agole,Frank Biryabaho Matsiko,Matthew Beckman,John Ewing,Edgar Yoder,Mark A Brennan,Connie Baggett

doi:10.37433/aad.v2i1.73

David Agole, Frank Biryabaho Matsiko + Show 5 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.37433/aad.v2i1.73

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Abstract

Cohesion is a fundamental determinant of performance in farmer groups in which collective action is pursued for the benefit of the members. The study examined the influence of individual members’ objectives, participation culture, group rewards, structure of tasks and perceived equity on cohesion of farmer groups that can promote access to agricultural extension services. Quantitative data were collected from 180 members of 19 farmer groups using questionnaires selected in a multi-stage process that combined purposive and random sampling. Qualitative data were gathered from 20 key informants in oral interviews and three focus group discussions. Regression analysis indicated that there were statistically significant negative relationships between individual members’ objectives, structure of the tasks, group reward system and cohesion of farmer groups. In contrast, perceived equity had a statistically significant positive relationship with cohesion in farmer groups. We recommend that, for sustainability of group cohesion, group facilitators work with the farmer groups to ensure alignment of group and NAADS institutions and performance indicators. A group dynamics perspective to understanding farmer group cohesion should be a helpful organizing principle.

Highlights

Introduction and Problem StatementOver 80% of Uganda’s agricultural sector is dominated by smallholder farmers producing on less than two acres of land, with extremely low yields mostly to meet household food needs and in case of surplus it is sold
Given a relatively high 5000 to 1 ratio of smallholder farmers per agricultural extension worker, most farmers are not reached by extension services, their production capacities remain low
In Uganda, the use of smallholder farmer groups remains central to the agricultural transformation process envisioned in the five-year Agriculture Sector Development Strategy and Investment Plan (DSIP) (2015 – 2020)

Summary

Introduction

Over 80% of Uganda’s agricultural sector is dominated by smallholder farmers producing on less than two acres of land, with extremely low yields mostly to meet household food needs and in case of surplus it is sold. This is because most rural dwellers, where smallholder farmers are, live in the poverty level below U.S $1.90. Under Pillar One and Pillar Two, the existing farmer groups are envisioned to play a key role in improving produce marketing, increasing access to financing and value addition (MAAIF, 2010)

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