Adoption of Farming Technologies Among Uganda National Farmers' Association Members in Soroti, Iganga and Tororo Districts

Abstract

This study aimed at assessing the adoption of farming technologies among members of Uganda National Farmers' Association. Specifically, the study intended to determine factors that influence adoption of farming technologies and benefits gained by smallholder farmers as a result of adopting farming technologies. The study also examined factors that influenced capacity of farmer organizations to deliver Business Support Services to farmers. Quantitative and qualitative methods were used. Findings indicate that age, education, contact with extension agents and land size are factors which influenced farmers to adopt farming technologies and use of improved seed was the main technology adopted by farmers in the study area. More than half of the farmers (67.69%) earned incomes between Ush.2.5 million and above after adoption, in contrast to 45.39% before adoption. Retaining qualified staff was a factor that hindered delivery of quality service. The study recommends to the government of Uganda to capitalize on factors which were positively related to adoption (age, education, contact with extension agents and land size and also through farmers organization continue providing a sustainable supply of improved seeds so that farmers can easily access the technology within their areas) so as to improve their welfare. At the same time the government of Uganda, farmers' association and other Policy institutions which provide services to farmers should improve funding and employ of qualified personnel in al/ stages of projects cycle. Lastly farmers should continue embracing factors that influenced adoption and use of improved seeds as this was found to benefit farmers more than others.