Smallholder Farmers In Uganda Research Articles

Intention to participate in smartphone-based data collection: the case of smallholder farmers in Uganda

ABSTRACT Smartphone technology is increasingly being used to conduct surveys, including in low-income countries where the timely collection of socio-economic data is of great importance. This study investigated the intention of Ugandan smallholder farmers to participate in smartphone-based data collection (SPDC). The data was collected through a cross-sectional survey of 306 smallholder farmers. The results show that the willingness of farmers to participate in SPDC is high. The intention to participate in SPDC is directly influenced by attitude, subjective norms and perceived enjoyment. Indirect influences are perceived usefulness, perceived trustworthiness and perceived cost through their effects on attitude. Similarly, perceived ease of use indirectly influences intention through its effects on perceived usefulness and perceived enjoyment. Statistically significant differences were found in terms of age, gender, mobile phone ownership and education. These results show the great potential of SPDC for data collection in Uganda for researchers, policy makers, agribusinesses and stakeholders.

COVID-19 pandemic, household welfare and diversification strategies of smallholder farmers in Uganda

Agricultural activities in many sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries are subject to various risk factors that the COVID-19 compounds. Earlier studies on the effect of COVID-19 on smallholders neglect the issue of comparison with non-farm households. The study uses micro-level household datasets to explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on household welfare, with a focus on farm households relative to their non-farm counterparts. We employed a binary probit model and Propensity Score Matching (PSM) approach and demonstrated that farm households witnessed important income reductions during the COVID-19 pandemic in Uganda. The study contributes to the design of evidence-based approaches to reducing farmers’ vulnerabilities to agricultural risks and pandemic-related shocks.

Pooled network analysis of pesticide exposure mixtures in conventional and organic smallholder farmers in Uganda and Costa Rica

Pooled network analysis of pesticide exposure mixtures in conventional and organic smallholder farmers in Uganda and Costa Rica

3 - An analysis of costs associated with maize storage facilities used by rural smallholder farmers in Uganda

3 - An analysis of costs associated with maize storage facilities used by rural smallholder farmers in Uganda

Occupational exposure to pesticides and neurobehavioral outcomes. Impact of different original and recalled exposure measures on the associations.

Several measures of occupational exposure to pesticides have been used to study associations between exposure to pesticides and neurobehavioral outcomes. This study assessed the impact of different exposure measures for glyphosate and mancozeb on the association with neurobehavioral outcomes based on original and recalled self-reported data with 246 smallholder farmers in Uganda. The association between the 6 exposure measures and 6 selected neurobehavioral test scores was investigated using linear multivariable regression models. Exposure measures included original exposure measures for the previous year in 2017: (i) application status (yes/no), (ii) number of application days, (iii) average exposure-intensity scores (EIS) of an application and (iv) number of EIS-weighted application days. Two additional measures were collected in 2019: (v) recalled application status and (vi) recalled EIS for the respective periods in 2017. Recalled applicator status and EIS were between 1.2 and 1.4 times more frequent and higher for both pesticides than the original application status and EIS. Adverse associations between the different original measures of exposure to glyphosate and 4 neurobehavioral tests were observed. Glyphosate exposure based on recalled information and all mancozeb exposure measures were not associated with the neurobehavioral outcomes. The relation between the different original self-reported glyphosate exposure measures and neurobehavioral test scores appeared to be robust. When based on recalled exposure measures, associations observed with the original exposure measures were no longer present. Therefore, future epidemiological studies on self-reported exposure should critically evaluate the potential bias towards the null in observed exposure-response associations.

The Moderating Role of Farming Systems in Market Participation and Value Creation for Medium and Smallholder Farmers in Rural Uganda

The study investigated the moderating role of farming systems in the association between market participation and value creation, targeting medium and smallholder farmers in Uganda, particularly in two districts in northern Uganda, Nwoya and Amuru. A sample size of 385 respondents consisting of medium and smallholder farmers involved in farm operations was calculated. The surveyed participants were selected using simple random sampling, while key informants were selected with a purposive sampling technique. Quantitative data obtained were coded and entered into SPSS version 25.0 statistical package computer software. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted to determine factor loading for the items examined. SPSS PROCESS MACRO v4.2 by Andrew F. Hayes was used to assess the moderation effect. There is a significant strong positive association of market participation and farming system with value creation (r = .861**, p < .01) and (r = .753**, p < .01), respectively. Secondly, market participation and the farming system significantly affect value creation (p<.05), and thirdly, the farming system moderated the effect of market participation on value creation. Policies and programs focusing on improving market access and market information dissemination should be implemented to benefit farmers significantly. Initiatives that promote sustainable and innovative agricultural practices should be encouraged to enhance value creation. A comprehensive approach that combines market participation and a farming system should be implemented to improve value creation. Enhancing farming systems by improving infrastructure, providing necessary support, and aligning farming practices with market demands can significantly impact the value of smallholder farmers' capabilities.

Determinants of knowledge, attitude and perception towards cage fish farming technologies among smallholder farmers in Uganda

Determinants of knowledge, attitude and perception towards cage fish farming technologies among smallholder farmers in Uganda

Local Context Capacity Building Needs for Climate Change Adaptation among Smallholder Farmers in Uganda: Policy and Practice Implications

Climate change impacts threaten sustainable development efforts. The magnitude of the impacts, however, varies with the socio-ecological characteristics of locations. This is the reason there is consensus on the necessity for climate change adaptive capacity building that is country driven, and based on, and responsive to, local needs. However, information on context specific capacity building needs in developing countries is not readily available. The objective of this study was to establish location specific awareness, training, educational research and technology capacity building needs for climate change adaptation among smallholder farmers in Uganda. Semi-structured questionnaires were used with 465 households from five agro-ecological zones, selected based on the level of vulnerability of agricultural systems to the main climate variation and change hazards. Results reveal substantial capacity building needs in all the zones. The majority of the farmers needed capacity building for interventions on soil-water conservation practices for adapting to drought and unpredictable rainfall. For all zones, education, research, and technology were perceived as key needs. However, the needs varied among zones. These results demonstrate the importance of context specificity in adaptation efforts. The study provides agro-ecological and social system specific information for climate change adaptation planning and policy interventions for effective capacity building.

Optimizing postharvest management of bananas in Uganda: a resilience and engineering-based approach

This study delves into the intricacies of postharvest management in banana production in Uganda, aiming to uncover insights that can enhance resilience and capitalize on opportunities for the sustained growth of banana cultivation. The examination spans the entire postharvest process, encompassing harvesting, handling, transportation, and storage up to the market stage. By identifying the primary causes of postharvest losses and understanding the associated challenges, this research outlines best practices to pave the way for a more robust banana production system, benefiting farmers and contributing to broader agricultural sustainability goals. The investigation explores the core issues affecting millions of lives and endeavors to catalyze transformative change by adapting to challenges and leveraging innovative engineering opportunities. The overarching objective is to ensure food security and elevate the economic well-being of smallholder farmers in Uganda. Recommendations emanating from this research are directed at stakeholders, urging them to scrutinize and reevaluate policies and regulations of banana postharvest management. The intention is to foster an enabling environment conducive to innovation, sustainability, and equitable development in the banana production sector.

The Sustainability of Carbon Markets for Climate-Smart Agriculture among Smallholder Farmers in Uganda

This study assesses the sustainability of Uganda's carbon markets in the context of climate-smart agricultural practices with the aim of aligning them with sustainable development goals. The research emphasizes integrating dimensions of sustainable development to proactively address food security and climate issues. Climate-smart agricultural practices that support the efficiency of small-scale farming enable farmers to generate income through the sale of carbon-related environmental services such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions and carbon sequestration. While these practices contribute to the resilience of smallholder farmers' livelihoods, challenges arise from large project volumes with low transaction costs, resulting in insufficient carbon revenues for local communities. Furthermore, limited methods and complex procedures hinder progress. The study recommends involving national or international organizations to bridge the gap between farmer groups and the carbon market, with a focus on government policy and private sector collaboration to incentivize environmental services. In summary, establishing sustainable, climate-smart agricultural links to the carbon market can bring co-benefits including income diversification, poverty reduction and biodiversity conservation.

Is this land for sale? The effects of drought on land ownership in Uganda

This study examines the impact of drought on the land ownership rights of smallholder farmers in Uganda. Three waves of the Uganda National Panel Survey are combined with an indicator for drought, the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index. Using a household fixed effects approach, we exploit spatial and temporal variation in drought conditions to identify its effect on households’ self-reported willingness to acquire land ownership rights, both at the extensive and intensive margins. Results show that exposure to drought lowers households’ intentions to purchase land and substantially reduces the price households are willing to pay for land. The effects persist over time and are robust to different specifications. Our findings suggest that drought exposure limits the operating space for farmers wishing to purchase land.

Self-reported and urinary biomarker-based measures of exposure to glyphosate and mancozeb and sleep problems among smallholder farmers in Uganda

ObjectiveWe aim to showcase the impact of applying eight different self-reported and urinary biomarker-based exposure measures for glyphosate and mancozeb on the association with sleep problems in a study among 253 smallholder farmers in Uganda. MethodsThe questionnaire-based exposure measures included: (1) the number of application days of any pesticide in the last 7 days (never, 1–2; >2 days) and six glyphosate and mancozeb-specific measures: (2) application status over the last 12 months (yes/no), (3) recent application status (never, last 7 days and last 12 months), (4) the number of application days last 12 months, (5) average exposure-intensity scores (EIS) and (6) EIS-weighted number of application days in last 12 months. Based on 384 repeated urinary biomarker concentrations of ethylene thiourea (ETU) and glyphosate from 84 farmers, we also estimated (7) average biomarker concentrations for all 253 farmers. Also in the 84 farmers the measured pre-work and post-work biomarker concentrations were used (8). Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess the association between the exposure measures and selected Medical Outcomes Study Sleep Scale (MOS-SS) indices (6-item, sleep inadequacy and snoring). ResultsWe observed positive associations between (1) any pesticide application in the last 7 days with all three MOS-SS indices. Glyphosate application in the last 7 days (3) and mancozeb application in the last 12 months (3) were associated with the 6-item sleep problem index. The estimated average urinary glyphosate concentrations showed an exposure–response association with the 6-item sleep problem index and sleep inadequacy in the same direction as based on self-reported glyphosate application in the last 7 days. In the analysis with the subset of 84 farmers, both measured and modelled post-work urinary glyphosate concentration showed an association with snoring. ConclusionsSelf-reported, estimated average biomarker concentrations and measured urinary biomarker exposure measures of glyphosate and mancozeb showed similar exposure–response associations with sleep outcomes.

Application of a Bayesian network modelling approach to predict the cascading effects of COVID-19 restrictions on the planting activities of smallholder farmers in Uganda

CONTEXTThere are rising concerns over the cascading effects induced by COVID-19 restrictions on the planting activities of smallholder farmers in low and middle-income countries, which may become a non-negligible threat to the long-term food security. Studies that utilize probability based models to examine the effects of COVID-19 restrictions on planting activities of smallholder farmers are scare, with no available evidence on Uganda. Yet these effects do not act in isolation, and are known to be complex, stochastic, nonlinear, and multidimensional. OBJECTIVETo develop a Bayesian network (BN) model based on expert knowledge, existing literature, and Uganda's High Frequency Phone Survey (HFPS) datasets on COVID-19 to bridge this gap. METHODSA comprehensive survey of relevant literature on the effects of COVID-19 restrictions on the planting activities of smallholder farmers was conducted based on well established guidelines. Resultantly, 23 relevant publications were obtained, and reviewed. A total of 12 variables deemed relevant to smallholder famers in Uganda were extracted, and organized into an influence diagram. The influence diagram was used to develop the BN model. A total 6313 households aggregated from Round 1, 4 and 7 of the HFPS datasets on COVID-19 was used in this study. A training portion (75%, n = 4734) was used to populate the model, and test dataset (25%, n = 1578), was used evaluate model accuracy. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONSThe error rate was 17.9%% implying that the model had the majority of its predictions correct (82.1%). The model's classification power, was evaluated basing on the scoring rules. The model's scoring rule results indicated that the model has a strongest predictive power with both the logarithmic loss (0.45,) and quadratic loss (0.29) scores close to zero, while a spherical payoff (0.84) approaching 1. Results reveal the maize, beans, and ground nuts, were the most grown crops during the pandemic as compared to the period before the pandemic. The sensitivity results indicate that the probability of COVID-19 restrictions to affect the planting activities of the smallholder farmers in Uganda was 30%. The variables of ‘unable to acquire seeds, and fertilizers’ affected the planting activities by 2.6 percentage points (PP), and 1.3 PP respectively. The variables ‘travel restrictions’ and reduced labour, affected the planting activities by 11 PP and 1PP respectively. SIGNIFICANCEThese findings emphasize the importance of intervening on the highly ranked effects to enhance the resilience of local food systems, and smallholders' capacity to cope with recurring and unforeseen shocks.

Entering the Digital Research Age: Investigating the Effectiveness of Visual Digital Tools in Agricultural Research

Agricultural studies mainly rely on quantitative research approaches. Despite growing interest in and uptake of qualitative, participatory, and visual methods due to their perceived advantages in gathering in-depth information and empowering participants, visual–digital research methods have yet to be largely applied. In our study on adaptation strategies to climate change among smallholder farmers in Uganda we compared different data collection methods, including: semi-structured interviews with manual note-taking, participatory impact diagrams, and adapted photovoice and cellphilm methodologies.

A farmer-friendly tool for estimation of weights of pigs kept by smallholder farmers in Uganda

Pig keeping is important to the livelihoods of many rural Ugandans. Pigs are typically sold based on live weight or a carcass weight derived from this; however this weight is commonly estimated due to the lack of access to scales. Here, we explore the development of a weigh band for more accurate weight determination and potentially increased farmer bargaining power on sale price. Pig weights and varied body measurements (heart girth, height, and length) were collected on 764 pigs of different ages, sex, and breed types, from 157 smallholder pig keeping households in Central and Western Uganda. Mixed-effects linear regression analyses, with household as a random effect and the varied body measurements as a fixed effect, were performed to determine the best single predictor for cube root of weight (transformation of weight for normality), for 749 pigs ranging between 0 and 125 kg. The most predictive single body measurement was heart girth, where weight in kg = (0.4011 + heart girth in cm × 0.0381)3. This model was found to be most suitable for pigs between 5 and 110 kg, notably more accurate than farmers’ estimates, but still with somewhat broad confidence intervals (for example, ±11.5 kg for pigs with a predicted weight of 51.3 kg). We intend to pilot test a weigh band based on this model before deciding on whether it is suitable for wider scaling.

Smallholder Farmers’ Coping Strategies to Perceived Climate Change and Variability in Isingiro District, South Western Uganda

Climate change and variability pose a major challenge facing the agricultural sector around the world and trends are feared to intensify by 2050. This is likely to complicate agricultural decisions affecting local communities who depend on the sector for their livelihood. Seasonal changes in weather patterns are projected to reduce food production due to the reduction in average yields of common food crops. With the majority of smallholder farmers in Uganda depending on agriculture for survival, building their adaptive capacity to climate change is vital to ensure household food and income security. This study aimed at establishing the smallholder farmers’ perceptions of climate change and their initiatives to cope with and manage the associated risks. A sample of 126 farming households were randomly selected from three Sub counties in Isingiro District and studied using field observations and questionnaires. Key informant interviews were also conducted with three extension workers. The collected data was analysed using Stata 14 and Excel. The findings revealed that there was increasing awareness of the climate change and variability challenge among smallholder farmers with the increasing need to take on adaptation strategies. The results showed that the major perceived changes were, increased intensity and frequency of droughts (98%), increase in daytime temperatures (92.7%), decrease in rainfall intensity (92.1%) and changes in rainfall distribution patterns (90%). It also showed that different initiatives had been taken by farmers to cope with the changes like changing planting dates (92.1%), growing crop variety mixtures (73.8%) and practising soil and water conservation (62.7%). Based on the findings of this study, smallholder farmers greatly perceived climate change and variability with negative impacts imposed on their farming operations. Although farmers have tried to adapt, there is still a need to support their coping strategies through appropriate policies. This will facilitate increased adoption of adaptation measures, thereby reducing the negative consequences of climate change in future

The sensitivity of food security to agricultural input subsidies in Uganda

The agricultural sector plays a crucial role in addressing food insecurity and malnutrition in developing countries, and smallholder farmers are significant contributors to food production. In Uganda, the National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS) program was initiated in 2001 to provide extension services and agricultural input subsidies to farmers. However, the program has faced criticism for its high levels of corruption, militarization, and political influence, as well as for its failure to reach its intended beneficiaries, and smallholder farmers. This paper aims to examine the contribution of smallholder farmers to food security and its sensitivity to agricultural input subsidies in Uganda, with a focus on the NAADS program. Additionally, it covers the evolution of agricultural input subsidy policy in Uganda from 1987 to the present and analyses the findings on the impact of these subsidies on smallholder farmer productivity and food security. The findings conclude that the NAADS program contributes less to the target beneficiaries, and its priorities do not align with the set goals. The study further suggests several recommendations for improving the program and addressing the issues facing smallholder farmers in Uganda.

Determinants of uptake of biofortified crop varieties by smallholder farmers in Uganda

Hunger and malnutrition can be said to be one of the important global problems that have recently been exacerbated by climate change and environmental degradation. Meanwhile, an estimated two billion people suffer from micronutrient malnutrition, mostly due to low intake of vitamins and minerals such as iron and zinc. Biofortification, an agricultural technology that can increase the micronutrient content of staples, may confer large benefits to rural families and poor children with limited access to expensive high-quality foods. Possible pathways include own-consumption when directly consumed, the income pathway when they are sold and/or the food price pathway when they increase the availability of micronutrient-rich foods in the market place. This research aims to understand the factors associated with the uptake of biofortified crop varieties (BCV) among smallholder farmers in Uganda and derive policy information to support their accelerated uptake. The analysis used two waves of panel data consisting of 6,400 observations collected from 6 districts in Uganda as part of the Feed the Future (FtF) innovation laboratory for nutrition. Descriptive analysis was used to help discern the differences between adopters and non-adopters of BCV. Double hurdle regression analysis was used to understand the factors associated with adoption and the intensity of adoption of biofortified crop varieties. Descriptive results reveal significant differences between adopters and non-adopters of BCV. Double hurdle regression analysis results indicate that the primary determinants of uptake of biofortified crop varieties include geographical location, extension staff visits, household size, and mobile phone ownership. Other important factors associated with the adoption of BCV include the amount of land owned by the household. Results suggest that extension staff visits, and mobile phone ownership were important sources of information for rural households that appear to drive the decision to adopt biofortified crop varieties. Meanwhile, household size, regional location of the household and total land owned were important motivators in adopting BCV technology. From the present analysis, it was not possible to clearly discern the key drivers of the intensity of adoption of biofortified crop varieties among smallholder households in Uganda. Key words: Biofortification, smallholder farmers, quasi experimental design, double-hurdle regression, Uganda

Information Communication Technology Devices for Agricultural Information Dissemination among Smallholder Farmers in Uganda (Rubanda, Mayuge Districts, and Mbarara City)

Agriculture continues to be the main source of livelihood in developing countries and smallholder farming is the most common type of agriculture practice supporting more than 70% of the population. On the other hand, information and communication technology (ICT) is quickly growing as its helping to connect easier and faster; thus, a dire need to harness it in promoting the agricultural sector. This study investigated the Information Communication Technology Devices for Agricultural Information Dissemination among Smallholder Farmers in Uganda (Rubanda, Mayuge Districts, And Mbarara City). The study adopted a cross-sectional research design that comprised a mixed methods approach of quantitative and qualitative. The instrument for this study consisted of structured questionnaires and interviews. More so, available reports and records were explored. The questionnaire was subjected to face and content validity and reliability test. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics of frequency counts and percentages. Findings show that the leading types of ICT devices for agricultural information dissemination in Rubanda District, Mayuge District, and Mbarara City were mobile phones and radios. The study recommends that the most important information to farmers should always be disseminated via phone conversation, texting, and radio for broadcast agricultural-related programs in respective local languages

Decomposition and nutrient release patterns of municipal solid waste compost in two agro-ecological zones of Uganda

BackgroundDeteriorating soil fertility is a major constraint to agricultural production and food security among smallholder farmers in Uganda and throughout sub-Saharan Africa, where the majority of the population relies on subsistence farming for its livelihoods.Unfortunately, inorganic fertiliser used as a significant soil nutrient replenishment is unsustainable, causing adverse environmental effects, including soil acidification and pollution of water bodies. Therefore, finding alternative, more sustainable, low-cost nutrient management systems is vital. This study assessed the decomposition and nutrient release patterns of municipal solid waste compost (MSWC) in a 36 weeks litter bag experiment under field conditions in two agro-ecological zones (AEZs) of Uganda.ResultsWe found a higher rate of decomposition in the South-western Grass Farmlands (SGF) agro-ecological zone (0.041 week−1, with 20% of initial compost mass remaining after 36 weeks of decay) compared to Southern and Eastern Lake Kyoga Basin (SEKB) (0.043 week−1, 32% of initial litter mass remaining). The half-life values were 16 and 17 weeks for SGF and SEKB AEZs, respectively. The nutrient release rates differed between the two study sites. The macronutrient release pattern in both sites followed the order K > P > N. The secondary macronutrients release followed the order Ca > Mg in the SGF, while in SEKB, the order was reversed. The micronutrients followed the order Cu > Mn > Fe > Zn and Cu > Mn > Zn > Fe in SGF and SEKB AEZs, respectively. The MSWC mass loss during decomposition was negatively correlated with rainfall in both AEZs and with temperature in SGF AEZ, while it was positively correlated with temperature in SEKB AEZ. However, the relationship with nutrient release rates was inconsistent in both AEZs.ConclusionsOur results showed consistent release of nutrients in all AEZs throughout the study period, which coincides with the two cropping seasons in Uganda, suggesting that smallholder farmers can use MSWC as a soil amendment to address soil fertility decline and improve crop productivity. However, because most nutrients were released almost right away in both AEZs, planting should be done at the beginning of high rainfall months when soil moisture is high to synchronise nutrient release from MSWC with crop demand and maximise nutrient uptake by crops while minimising losses to the environment. Furthermore, the inconsistent relationships between the climatic variables and nutrient release suggest that other factors, such as site-specific microbial composition, influenced MSWC nutrient release. Therefore, long-term research is needed to examine other factors affecting nutrient release in these AEZs.