Investigating how Road Development Enhances Agricultural Production in Bubandi Sub County of Bundibugyo District, Uganda

Abstract

This study investigated the intertwine between road development and agricultural production in Bubandi Sub County of Bundibugyo District, Uganda. Findings revealed that the poor road network in the district is caused by steep slopes, difficulties in compensating project affected residents, government delays in providing cash, and weather variations. This poor road network equally threatens food security. This is because road development increases the agricultural productive capacity of poor households, lowers input and transportation costs, creates a market for agricultural produce, improved regional interaction, opens up new economic areas, and facilitates the flow of goods, especially agricultural produce, from rural to urban areas. Based on this finding, the study calls for the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) to build all-weather loose surface roads to connect economically beneficial areas and provinces. The government should directly incentivize and oversee farmers to grow the sub county's agriculture. This is because most farmers lack agricultural incentives to inspire and boost their output. The government should build standardised highways and extend rural electrification, to encourage post-harvest handling technologies. Finally, the government should increase infrastructure and agricultural extension budgets in rural areas. Keywords: Agricultural output, Agricultural production, Feeder roads, Road development, Standard of living.