Department of Agro-business and Extension Agriculture
Permanent URI for this collection
Browse
Recent Submissions
Item Evaluting factors for choice of coffee marketing channels : a case study of smallholder coffee farmers' in Mafubira ward Jinja city.(Busitema university, 2026) Nalukomwa, IvanThis study examined the factors influencing the choice of marketing channels, the Characterization of coffee farmers by marketing channels and the Profit margins for each channel among smallholder coffee farmers in Mafubira ward, Jinja City. Although several studies have examined agricultural marketing in Uganda, there is limited specific evidence explaining which marketing channels are commonly used in Mafubira Ward, why farmers prefer certain channels over others, and how these choices affect their profitability. Therefore, the problem of this study is that the factors influencing the choice of marketing channels and their implications on the profitability of smallholder coffee farmers in Mafubira ward are not understood, making it difficult for farmers, policy makers and stakeholders to design effective interventions that improve coffee marketing efficiency and farmer incomes. A cross-sectional research design was used, and data were collected from 201 coffee farmers. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and a Multinomial Logistic Regression model. The findings showed that the average age of the farmers was 63.12 years, indicating an ageing farming population. Access to credit was low at 8.5%, and access to extension services was only 5.5%. The multinomial logit model results further showed that distance to the market and quantity harvested significantly influenced the choice of marketing channel. Farmers with larger harvests and those located farther from the market were more likely to sell through cooperatives or processors. Profit margin analysis showed that processors had the highest profit margin at 91.8%, followed by cooperatives at 87.8%, while middlemen recorded the lowest margin at 48.7%. The study concludes that value addition and collective marketing improve profitability. It recommends strengthening cooperatives and providing farmers with processing equipment to help them move from low-value cherry sales to higher-value processed coffee markets.Item Knowledge, attitudes, and practices on use of digital banking technologies in access to credit among agribusiness traders in Buyanga sub-county, Busia district.(Busitema University, 2026) Wejuli, Jacob MalabaDigital banking technologies have become important tools for promoting financial inclusion and improving access to credit among rural entrepreneurs. Thus, despite the increasing availability of mobile money, agency banking, and digital credit service in Uganda, many agribusiness traders continue to face challenges in effectively utilizing these technologies for credit access. This study examined the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the use of digital banking technologies in access to credit among agribusiness traders in Buyanga sub-county, Busia district, Uganda. Specifically, the study assessed traders’ knowledge of digital banking technologies, examined their attitudes toward digital banking, and evaluated their usage practices. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design employing a quantitative approach was used. Data were collected from 121 agribusiness traders selected through simple random sampling using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, mean, and standard deviations, were used to summarize the findings. The results revealed that digital banking technologies were widely used among agribusiness traders, with mobile money being the most accessed service (80.17%) and 57.0% of the respondents using digital banking services daily. Respondents portrayed good knowledge of basic digital banking functions and digital security practices but had limited knowledge of advanced services like unstructured supplementary service data banking and bank account linking. The study further revealed that traders generally held positive attitudes toward digital banking due to its convenience, speed, and ability to facilitate financial transactions. However, concerns regarding fraud, hidden charges, and transaction failures remained prevalent. Although digital banking was commonly used for routine transactions such as payments, transfers, and deposits, the use of digital credit services remained relatively low. The study concludes that while agribusiness traders possess adequate knowledge and positive attitudes toward digital banking technologies, gaps in technical knowledge and digital credit utilization continue to limit their contribution to improved credit access. The study recommends strengthening digital financial literacy programs, enhancing consumer protection and cyber security awareness, simplifying digital credit procedures, and expanding rural digital banking support services to improve financial inclusion and access to credit among agribusiness traders.Item The gender dynamics of access to financial credit for pineapple production : a case study of small-scale pineapple farmers in Kangulumira sub-county, Kayunga district.(Busitema University, 2026) Kakooza, Marvin ChristopheAccessibility to agriculture credit is crucial for improving farm output, investment, and household incomes, particularly in pineapple production, which requires substantial capital investment; however, gender inequalities may limit women’s potential to acquire adequate and affordable loans. This study assessed gender disparities in accessibility to financial credit among small-scale pineapple farmers in Kangulumira Sub-county, Kayunga District, Uganda, with specific focus on farmer characteristics, factors influencing credit access, and gender parity in credit outcomes. A quantitative descriptive cross-sectional research design was employed, using structured questionnaires to gather primary information from 125 small-scale pineapple farmers selected through a multi-stage sampling procedure from a sampling frame of 187 farmers. SPSS version 26 and Microsoft excel were used to analyze descriptive data and inferential statistics such as chi square test, T-test, gender parity index and a multivariate regression analysis. The outcomes indicated that credit access was significantly associated with the ownership of a bank account (p=0.001), credit source (p=0.20) and the factors that were influencing access to credit differed by gender. The results also indicated that male farmer were more associated with factors such education, farmers income, marital status, collateral ownership, land size and source of credit while the females had less factors influencing their access with majorly factors like farm size, household income, source of credit and collateral ownership. In the findings, gender inequality in credit access greatly existed with males being more likely to borrow many times (GPI =0.63) and getting higher loan amounts, having more chances of borrowing higher loan limits (GPI=0.35) than their female counterparts. The repayment period did not differ significantly (p=0.841) and on average, women had longer waited hours for them to access the credit they needed. The study revealed that there is existence of gender imbalance among small scale pineapple farmers and these differences were linked on differences in asset ownership, economic capacity and institutional lending arrangements. The study concludes that gender inequality in agricultural credit access remains a block among small-scale pineapple farmers in Kangulumira Sub-county and is largely associated with differences in productive asset ownership, economic capacity, and institutional lending arrangements. The study recommends gender-responsive agricultural lending, reduced reliance on physical collateral, strengthened farmer groups and financial literacy, and increased support for women’s ownership of productive assets to promote equitable access to agricultural finance and enhance pineapple production.Item Assessing the determinants of food insecurity among the smallholder farmers in Uleppi sub-county, Madi Okollo district.(Busitema University, 2026) Habert, VukoniFood insecurity is a severe challenge, with roughly 40% of the Ugandan population estimated to be food insecure, particularly in rural areas. Madi Okollo District is an acute hotspot within the West Nile region, with projections indicating deterioration from IPC Phase 2 (Stress) to IPC Phase 3 (Crisis). Despite this, there has been a lack of empirical research quantifying how agricultural and institutional challenges interact to drive smallholder household food insecurity in Uleppi Sub-County. This study analyzed the socio-economic, agricultural, and institutional determinants of food insecurity among smallholder farmers in Uleppi Sub-County, Madi Okollo District. Utilizing a cross-sectional quantitative survey design and Yamane’s formula at an 8% margin of error, primary data was collected using structured questionnaires from a random sample of 143 smallholder households across nine villages. Household food insecurity was evaluated via the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS) and analyzed using descriptive statistics and multivariate Ordinal Logistic Regression (OLR) in SPSS. Descriptive results revealed a severe localized crisis: a staggering 73.4% of households were categorized as severely food insecure, and 16.8% were moderately food insecure, leaving only 6.3% completely food secure. The multivariate OLR model was statistically significant χ²(12) = 42.57, p = .002, Nagelkerke R2 = 0.364) and isolated four significant predictors (p < .05). Log-transformed monthly household income, larger farm sizes (B = -0.052, p = .044), and age of the farmer (B = -0.072, p = .006) operated as vital structural defense factors, significantly reducing the likelihood of severe food shortages. Conversely, prolonged farming experience emerged as a significant risk factor (B = 0.099, p = .002), increasing the odds of higher food insecurity by 10.3% annually per additional year. This paradox indicates that long-term reliance on subsistence farming under declining environmental conditions compounds household vulnerability in the absence of modernization. The study concludes that food insecurity is a pervasive, income-driven access crisis rather than an availability deficit. Recommendations emphasize shifting from pure subsistence to income diversification programs, introducing climate-smart agricultural modernization to break environmental degradation cycles, and formalizing land user rights under the dominant customary tenure systems to foster long-term farm investments.Item An analysis of financial accessibility for groundnut production by smallholder farmers in Magada sub-county, Namutumba district, Uganda.(Busitema University, 2026) Naigaga, WinnieThis study looked at financial accessibility for smallholder groundnut farmers in Magada Subcounty, Namutumba District, Uganda. Groundnut production plays an important role in household income, food security, and rural livelihoods. A cross-sectional survey design using a quantitative research approach was used. Data was collected electronically through Kobo Collect from 98 randomly chosen smallholder groundnut farmers with a structured questionnaire. The data was analyzed using SPSS Version 26. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, summarized the findings, while simple regression analysis examined how financial literacy affects financial accessibility. The results showed that Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) were the main sources of finance at 56.0%. This was followed by friends and relatives at 30.8%, microfinance institutions at 8.8%, money lenders at 3.3%, and commercial banks at 1.1%. Regression analysis showed that financial literacy significantly improved financial accessibility (β = 0.286, p = 0.004). The main barriers to accessing financial services included high interest rates, lack of collateral, long loan application processes, low financial literacy, and the distance to financial institutions. The study concludes that increasing financial literacy and strengthening community-based financial institutions can improve financial accessibility for smallholder groundnut farmers.Item Determinants of smallholder farmers' participation in the indigenous chicken market in Ayivu division, Arua city.(Busitema University, 2026) Alaru, DonnahIndigenous chicken rearing serves as a vital pillar for rural livelihoods, nutritional security, and income earning in Uganda, yet many smallholders remain trapped in subsistence-level production. This study examined the socio-economic characteristics of smallholder poultry producers, the determinants of market participation, and the factors affecting market participation intensity in Ayivu Division, Arua City. A cross-sectional quantitative design was deployed, sampling 146 indigenous chicken producers through a multistage sampling strategy across Komite and Jiakoyia cells. Primary data collected via structured questionnaires were analyzed using descriptive statistics, a Probit regression model was used to assess market participation decisions, and an Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression model was used to assess market participation intensity (proportion of flock sold). Results showed a female-controlled sub-sector (56.8%) with a mean flock size of 37 birds producing a mean net annual income of UGX 555,000. Probit estimates disclosed that household size (β=0.1867, p<0.05), flock number (β=1.5655, p<0.01), and extension coverage (β=1.1471, p<0.05) significantly increased market access probability, while years in farming (β=−0.0676, p<0.01) and acreage (β=−0.7133, p<0.10) had negative effects. For participation intensity, OLS regression revealed that record management (β=0.269, p<0.01), frequency of extension outreach (β=0.012, p<0.01), and plot size (β=0.008, p<0.01) significantly increased the number of flock sold, whereas distance to market (β=−0.023, p<0.05) and access to credit (β=−0.121, p<0.05) downcast intensity. The findings indicate that market entry is majorly limited by number of birds and basic institutional linkage, whereas greater commercialization level relies on intensive management practices like record maintenance and consistent extension assistance. Far market distance and credit diversion act as major constraints to commercial expansion. In conclusion, transforming smallholder farmers from self-sufficiency to market oriented poultry production needs organized institutional backing rather than population related targeting alone. It is therefore recommended that local administration extension agencies and development agencies focus on enterprise management training (mostly farm record-keeping), enhance the frequency of extension visits, and encourage specific farmer producer groups to bulk output, lower market transportation costs, and strengthen negotiating power.Item Assessing the challenges faced by smallholder maize farmers in accessing markets in Wairasa sub-county, Mayuge district.(Busitema University, 2026) Dada, AnthonyThe purpose of this study was to assess the challenges faced by smallholder maize farmers in accessing market for their maize produces in Wairasa sub-county, Mayuge district. A cross-sectional survey design was used, employing multi -stage probability sampling were 133 respondents were randomly selected from three different parishes. The objectives of this study were to characterize the socio-demographic characteristics of smallholder maize farmers, to identify factors that determine market access among maize famers and to prioritize the primary market access and transaction challenges faced by smallholder maize farmers based on their prevalence in Wairasa sub-county in Mayuge district. Primary data was later used for analysis and the researcher used descriptive statistics involving mainly quantitative methods of data collection to capture data, probit regression was used to determine market access factors and frequency and percentage ranking was employed on the prioritizing of the primary market access and transaction challenges faced by farmers. Data was collected using kobo toolkit were research questions were uploaded on softcopy. The findings revealed that respondents averaged 37.96% years of age, were predominantly male (76%), ha low-to-moderate education, and cultivated an average of 0.99 acres of maize. Market access was significantly influenced by age, education level, maize variety, distance to market and buyer availability (p˂0.05), while gender, marital status, farming experience, market information, extension contact showed no significant effect. The most prevalent combination of challenges-price fluctuations, lack of credit, and weighing scale cheating-affected 31.6% of farmers, followed closely by low prices, price fluctuations, and weighing scale cheating (30.8%). Smallholder maize farmers in Wairasa sub-county face structural, institutional barriers that constrain market access and income. Addressing these require improving rural infrastructure and storage, standardization of weighing systems, market-oriented extension support and improving rural infrastructure and storage.Item Determinants of market information access and use among smallholder cocoa farmers of Bulidah and Nankoma sub-counties in Bugiri district.(Busitema University, 2026) Auku, LawrenceThis study determined the determinants of market information access and use among smallholder cocoa farmers in Bugiri District, Uganda. Specifically, the study was guided by three objectives: assessing the types of market information accessed and used by smallholder cocoa farmers; establishing factors that influence farmers’ access to market information; and identifying factors that affect farmers' utilization of market information. The study used a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional survey design. The target population was farmers in Bulidha and Nakoma Sub-counties. A total of 120 respondents selected through random sampling were used for the study. Face-to-face structured questionnaires were used to collect quantitative data from the respondents. Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression analysis were performed using SPSS. The results revealed that only 32.7% of the respondents had access to cocoa market information. Price information (78.4%) and quality information (45.9%) were the most accessed and used types of market information. Traders (91.1%) and fellow farmers (88.9%) were the most accessed information channels, compared to mobile phone/SMS (15.6%). The binary logistic regression analysis revealed that household size (β =1.435, p = 0.011) increased the likelihood of accessing market information, while cocoa farming experience (β=-0.64, p=0.001) had a significant negative relationship with accessing market information. Of those who accessed market information, 91.5% utilized the information for negotiation of prices (93.3%) and selection of sales channels (91.1%). The study concluded that the major constraint faced by smallholder cocoa farmers in the study area is information access and not utilization. The study recommends that there is a need to scale up localized market information services and mobile technology such as SMS for effective delivery of market information to smallholder farmers. Increasing access to credit and mobilization through farmer groups can also help increase market information access and use by farmers.Item Assessing climate smart agriculture adaptation strategies of smallholder farmers in Busano sub county Mbale district.(Busitema University, 2026) Mbaga, HussienIn Uganda, coffee is a major cash crop and source of household income but climate change notably erratic rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts, rising temperatures, pests, diseases, and soil degradation immensely affects its production. This study identified the main climate-smart agriculture adaptation strategies among smallholder coffee farmers and determined the factors influencing their adoption. The study employed a cross-sectional survey research design using a quantitative approach. A sample of 150 smallholder coffee farmers was selected. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Version 26). Descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviations, were used to analyze the adaptation strategies employed by farmers, while a multivariate regression model was used to determine factors influencing the choice of climate-smart agriculture adaptation strategies. The findings revealed that farmers adopted a wide range of climate-smart agriculture practices categorized as cultural, mechanical, chemical, biological and agronomic strategies. The most adopted practices included intercropping (98.0%), timely weeding (96.0%), inorganic fertilizer application (95.3%), pruning (90.7%), moisture retention practices (90.7%), planting cover crops (88.7%), pesticide application (86.7%), and selective harvesting (85.3%). However, adoption of advanced practices such as irrigation equipment (10.7%), soil amendments (14.0%), soil moisture management (16.7%), soil testing (34.0%), and bio-pesticides (30.7%) were low. The regression results indicated that age, household size, farming experience, farm size, and access to credit significantly influenced farmers’ choice of adaptation strategies. The model explained 76.0% of the variation in adaptation choices (R² = 0.760), indicating strong explanatory power. The study concludes that smallholder coffee farmers in Busano Sub-county are actively adopting climate-smart agriculture practices to cope with climate variability and climate change. However, their adaptive capacity remains constrained by limited access to financial resources, agricultural technologies, and extension services. The study recommends strengthening agricultural extension services, improving access to affordable agricultural credit, investing in irrigation and other climate-resilient technologies to enhance sustainable coffee production and improve farmers’ resilience to climate change. I recommend further studies on Evaluating whether these adopted CSA practices actually lead to measurable improvements in coffee yields, household income, and long-term climate resilience over time, Investigating the specific financial, institutional, and technical bottlenecks preventing farmers from adopting higher-cost or knowledge-intensive practices like soil testing (34.0%), bio-pesticides (30.7%), and irrigation equipment (10.7%).Item Determinants of upland rice productivity among smallholder farmers in Akisim-sub-county.(Busitema University, 2026) Opolot, SamThis study assessed the productivity of upland rice farmers in Akisim Sub-County, Pallisa District, Uganda. The study was conducted because upland rice production remained important for household food security and income generation, while farmers continued to experience production challenges associated with climate variability, pests, limited extension services and differences in the use of production resources. The study specifically identified the rice varieties grown by smallholder farmers, examined socio-economic, farm-level and institutional factors associated with productivity, and identified the major challenges faced by upland rice farmers. A cross-sectional research design was employed, and primary data were collected from upland rice farmers using a structured questionnaire. Approximately 138 observations were available in the final dataset, depending on the variables included in particular analyses. Descriptive statistics, Pearson chi-square tests, independent-samples comparison tests and binary logistic regression were used to analyze the data at a 5% level of significance. where Pᵢ represented the probability of the outcome for farmer i, β₀ was the constant, β₁…βₖ were the coefficients of the explanatory variables, X₁…Xₖ represented the explanatory variables, and εᵢ was the error term. The explanatory variables included gender, marital status, education level, occupation, rice variety, land ownership, seed source, fertilizer application, access to extension services, farmer-group membership, agricultural credit and government or NGO support. The findings showed that NERICA 1 was the dominant variety, grown by 78.2% of the respondents, while 85.9% obtained rice seed from Agro-input shops. The mean age of farmers was 39.98 years, mean household size was 7.51 members, and mean farming experience was 8.83 years. Yield per season and land size differed significantly between the groups examined, with p-values of 0.004 and 0.002, respectively. However, most socio-economic and institutional variables in the binary logistic regression were not statistically significant at the 5% level. The model produced a Cox and Snell R² of 0.539 and a Nagelkerke R² of 0.859, but several coefficients had extremely large standard errors and odds ratios, indicating estimation instability. The major challenges reported by farmers were climate variability (92.3%), pests and diseases (84.5%) and limited extension services (56.3%). The study concluded that improving upland rice production in Akisim Sub-County required stronger climate information services, improved pest and disease management, and increased access to agricultural extension services.Item Assessing the use of digital technologies for marketing of milk among smallholder dairy farmers in Nama sub-county, Mukono district, Uganda.(Busitema University, 2026) Nakisozi, HildahThis study assessed the use of digital technologies in marketing of milk among smallholder dairy farmers in Nama sub-county, Mukono district, in Central Uganda. The study was guided by three objectives: to assess the farmers’ knowledge of digital marketing of milk, to examine their attitudes towards digital marketing, and to assess their practices in digital milk marketing. A cross-sectional survey research design employing a quantitative approach was used. Primary data were collected from 100 randomly selected smallholder dairy farmers using structured questionnaires, digitized into the Kobo Toolbox. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics with the help of statistical software (Microsoft Excel, SPSS, Stata). The results revealed that the majority of the farmers were male (53%), married (70%), Christian (84%), and had no formal education (41%). The average age of respondents was 46.51 years. The farmers mostly kept crossbreed cattle (39%) with average landholding of 1.53 acres, and farming experience of 11.46 years. They mostly used the informal channels (75%) for selling milk, and none belonged to a dairy farmer cooperative. Only 46% of the farmers used digital tools for marketing milk. Farmers demonstrated relatively high level of knowledge of use of mobile phones (mean=3.266) and mobile payment services (3.129), but limited knowledge of use of social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, websites, and other marketing applications. The study further found that respondents generally recognized the benefits of digital marketing, particularly in reducing dependence on middlemen (mean = 3.38), improving communication with customers (mean 2.94), and saving time (mean = 2.97). However, farmers expressed concerns about online fraud (mean = 3.85) and showed low confidence in using digital marketing platforms. The study also established that the use of digital marketing tools was generally low and was mainly limited to mobile phones and mobile money services. The major factors affecting the use of digital marketing included poor internet connectivity (mean = 4.11), high internet costs (mean = 4.06), lack of smartphones (10%), inadequate digital skills (42%), and limited access to training on digital marketing tools. The study concludes that although smallholder dairy farmers appreciate the potential benefits of digital marketing, its use remains low due to infrastructural, economic, knowledge and attitude-related constraints. The study recommends strengthening farmer training programs, improving rural internet connectivity, digital literacy, and access to cheap digital technologies to enhance the use of digital marketingItem Assessing consumer preference for different fish types in Soroti city east, Aloet ward.(Busitema University, 2026) Ameciti, Thomas VuziFish is a vital source of animal protein and contributes significantly to household nutrition, food security and income in Uganda. However, fish demand varies by type’s preference, product form and socioeconomic characteristics of consumers. This study assessed consumer demand for fish types and fish products in Aloet Ward, Soroti City East. The specific objectives were to determine the preferred fish types (Tilapia, Nile Perch, African Catfish and Silver Fish) and product forms; to examine socioeconomic factors influencing quantity of fish purchased and to examine willingness to pay (WTP) for high quality and value-added fish products. A cross-sectional survey design was used. Data were collected from 201 fish consumers using structured questionnaire through face to face interviews and simple random sampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson chi-square tests and multinomial logistic regression. Results showed Tilapia was the most preferred types 57.7% followed by, Nile Perch 25.4%, Silver fish (Mukene) with 10.4% and African Catfish 6.5%. Fresh fish was the most preferred form 46.3%, followed by smoked fish 38.3%, fried fish 9.5%, and dried fish with 6.0%. Acceptance of value-added products was low with 75.6% reporting no preference, smoked fish at 17.4%, fish fillet at 7.0% and fish powder at 0%. Most consumers purchased low volumes of ≤1 kg per week (93.0%) with average weekly expenditure of UGX 13,696.52, Median = 12,000. The multinomial logistic model had strong explanatory power (Nagelkerke R² = 0.753). Significant predictors of purchasing 2 kg and above were disposable income (p=0.011) and tertiary education (p=0.010, Exp (B) =17.29). Household size, occupation and food expenditure were not significant. WTP for high-quality fish (premium of UGX 2,000-3,000) was significantly associated with income (χ²=35.214, p<0.001). Occupation was not associated with WTP for value-added fish (p=0.929) and age was not associated with WTP for high-quality fish (p=0.413). The study concludes that demand in Aloet Ward is type-specific and form-specific, dominated by Tilapia and fresh fish, low-volume, and driven by income and education.Item Assessing the gross margin of finger millet production in Mazimasa sub-county, Butaleja district, Uganda.(Busitema University, 2026) Hajanghe, AsumanThis study assessed the gross margin of finger millet production in Mazimasa sub –county, with specific objectives to (1) determine the cost and returns of production, (ii) assess factors that influence gross margin, and (iii) evaluate the challenges faced by finger millet farmer. Across –sectional design was adopted, using simple random sampling to select 120 farmers. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS through descriptive statistics, gross margin analysis, multiple linear regressions, and the Relative Importance Index (RII). Results revealed that finger millet farming was dominated by women (74.4%) with mean farm size of 1.02 acres under the crop. labour, particularly weeding(39.9%) constituted the largest share of variable production costs, while fertilizer and pesticides use were absent. Mean gross margin and revenue were (UGX 460000, Ugx1, 037,750 respectively). The regression results indicate that the selected factors jointly explained a substantial proportion of the variation in gross margin, accounting for 53.7% of the observed differences. Agricultural training and access to agricultural credit had positive and statistically significant effects, suggesting that access to knowledge and financial resources can improve farmers’ gross margins. The labour shortages (RII 0.946) and climate change effects (RII 0.916) emerged as the most severe constraints. The findings indicate that finger millet production is a labour- intensive, low input enterprise whose profitability is driven primarily by cost management. The study concludes that finger millet farming is only marginally profitable and highly vulnerable to rising labour costs and climatic stress. It recommends promoting labour- saving mechanization and group weeding arrangements. Prioritizing cost-reduction strategies in extension programming to improve profitability and sustainability.Item Effect of aflatoxin contamination on maize farmers' income in Namutumba sub-county, Namutumba district.(Busitema University, 2025) Kisambira, Daniel MosesThis study assessed the economic effects of aflatoxin contamination on maize farmers’ income in Namutumba Sub-County, Namutumba District where maize is a major food and cash crop but faces serious contamination challenges that undermine food security, market access, and livelihoods. The problem addressed was the lack of empirical evidence on how aflatoxin contamination directly affects smallholder farmers’ incomes. The purpose was to assess the extent of contamination, its economic implications, contributing factors, while identifying mitigation strategies. The objectives were to evaluate farmers’ awareness of aflatoxin contamination, assess its economic effects on income, and analyze factors and control measures used by farmers. This study used a cross-sectional descriptive design to examine the topic at one point in time. We gathered information from 104 households that grow maize, using surveys and conversations. The data was then examined with basic statistics and by identifying common themes. The results showed that every farmer (100%) had heard of aflatoxin, but very few (only5.8%) understood the safe amounts. This suggests a lack of specific expertise on the topic. Most farmers relied on fellow farmers for information (63.5%), with minimal input from extension services. Key contributing factors included poor drying (26%), inadequate storage (11.5%), and lack of training (only 6% had received formal training). Economically, contamination led to significant losses: average household income loss was UGX 83,000 annually, and total community losses were UGX 8,632,000, mainly through lower prices, buyer rejection, reduced sales volumes, and discouraged investment. Farmers adopted coping strategies such as selling at lower prices, using contaminated maize as animal feed, or discarding it, which only partially reduced losses. Mitigation measures included using resistant maize varieties (46.2%), proper drying (26%), and improved storage (23.1%), though their adoption was limited by financial and institutional constraints. The study concludes that aflatoxin contamination poses a serious threat to food safety and farmer incomes in Namutumba. While awareness exists, inadequate post- harvest practices, limited technical knowledge, and weak institutional support worsen the problem. Addressing this requires a multi-faceted approach involving farmer training, improved drying and storage technologies, affordable testing services, financial incentives for aflatoxin- free maize and stronger government support to protect incomes and enhance maize quality, marketability, and food security.Item Drivers of groundnut farmers household market participation decisions in Kateta sub-county, Serere district.(Busitema University, 2026) Okwoto, SolomonThis study assessed the productivity of upland rice farmers in Akisim Sub-County, Pallisa District, Uganda. The study was conducted because upland rice production remained important for household food security and income generation, while farmers continued to experience production challenges associated with climate variability, pests, limited extension services and differences in the use of production resources. The study specifically identified the rice varieties grown by smallholder farmers, examined socio-economic, farm-level and institutional factors associated with productivity, and identified the major challenges faced by upland rice farmers. A cross-sectional research design was employed, and primary data were collected from upland rice farmers using a structured questionnaire. Approximately 138 observations were available in the final dataset, depending on the variables included in particular analyses. Descriptive statistics, Pearson chi-square tests, independent-samples comparison tests and binary logistic regression were used to analyze the data at a 5% level of significance. where Pᵢ represented the probability of the outcome for farmer i, β₀ was the constant, β₁…βₖ were the coefficients of the explanatory variables, X₁…Xₖ represented the explanatory variables, and εᵢ was the error term. The explanatory variables included gender, marital status, education level, occupation, rice variety, land ownership, seed source, fertilizer application, access to extension services, farmer-group membership, agricultural credit and government or NGO support. The findings showed that NERICA 1 was the dominant variety, grown by 78.2% of the respondents, while 85.9% obtained rice seed from Agro-input shops. The mean age of farmers was 39.98 years, mean household size was 7.51 members, and mean farming experience was 8.83 years. Yield per season and land size differed significantly between the groups examined, with p-values of 0.004 and 0.002, respectively. However, most socio-economic and institutional variables in the binary logistic regression were not statistically significant at the 5% level. The model produced a Cox and Snell R² of 0.539 and a Nagelkerke R² of 0.859, but several coefficients had extremely large standard errors and odds ratios, indicating estimation instability. The major challenges reported by farmers were climate variability (92.3%), pests and diseases (84.5%) and limited extension services (56.3%). The study concluded that improving upland rice production in Akisim Sub-County required stronger climate information services, improved pest and disease management, and increased access to agricultural extension services.Item Gender participation in groundnut marketing among smallholder farmers in Guyaguya sub-county, Katakwi district, Uganda.(Busitema University, 2026) Achan, GraceGroundnut is an important food and cash crop for smallholder farmers, but gender differences may affect farmers’ participation and benefits from its marketing. This study evaluated gender participation in groundnut marketing among smallholder farmers in Guyaguya Sub-County, Katakwi District, Uganda. A descriptive cross-sectional research design with a quantitative approach was used. Data were collected from 102 smallholder groundnut farmers using semi-structured questionnaires and analysed using SPSS. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, t-tests and the Gender Parity Index (GPI) were used. Both men and women participated in groundnut marketing, with joint decision-making common in several marketing activities. However, significant gender differences existed in decisions on selling, quantity sold, selling price, market trips and access to market information. Perceptions of participation were moderate, with women recording a mean of 3.30 and men 3.21. Overall gender parity was not achieved, with a GPI of 0.87, indicating male-favoured participation. Men recorded higher participation in most indicators, while women paid higher market dues. Significant differences were observed in distance travelled, market dues and number of buyers. Gender disparities persist in groundnut marketing among smallholder farmers. The study recommends improving women’s access to market information, transport, credit, negotiation skills and productive resources, while promoting joint decision-making and gender-responsive marketing interventionsItem Determinants of profitability of simsim growing in Okwongodul sub county Dokolo district.(Busitema University, 2026) Ogwang, AaronThe purpose of this study was to establish whether smallholder simsim production in Okwongodul Sub-County, Dokolo District, generates an economic return once the full cost of production is taken into account. Three objectives guided the work: to determine the socio-economic characteristics of smallholder simsim farmers, to determine the profitability of smallholder simsim production, and to determine the factors influencing that profitability. A cross-sectional survey design was adopted. A multi-stage procedure combining purposive selection of the sub-county with simple random selection of four parishes, eight villages and individual household heads produced a sample of 100 farmers drawn from a frame of 673 agricultural households. Primary data on production costs, yields, farm-gate prices and household characteristics were collected through a structured questionnaire administered face to face and analysed in SPSS Version 26 using descriptive statistics, gross margin analysis and ordinary least squares regression. Simsim production in the sub-county was found to be dominated by women, who made up 66 per cent of respondents, and by farmers with little formal schooling, 42 per cent having received none. Gross margin analysis returned a mean of UGX -181,000 per season against mean revenue of UGX 311,150 and mean variable cost of UGX 492,150. Only 28 per cent of respondents recovered their full production costs, and the same 28 per cent returned a benefit-cost ratio at or above unity. Labour absorbed 51.8 per cent of total variable cost and purchased inputs a further 36.5 per cent. Eleven of the twenty determinants identified in the conceptual framework could be carried into estimation, the remainder having not been captured by the questionnaire or having shown no variation across respondents. Access to market information was the only variable to reach significance, and then at the 10 per cent level, carrying a negative coefficient (β = -246,883; p = 0.080). Land allocated to simsim carried a positive coefficient that fell just short of that threshold (β = 12,484; p = 0.105). The model as a whole was not statistically significant (F(11, 71) = 0.993; p = 0.461) and explained 21.6 per cent of the variation in gross margin, 9.4 per cent after adjustment. The study concludes that simsim, although widely promoted as a cash crop capable of lifting rural households out of poverty, was not profitable for most sampled farmers under the cost and price conditions of the 2025 season. High labour and land-hire costs relative to farm-gate revenue, rather than low participation in the enterprise, account for the shortfall. It is recommended that extension agencies promote labour-saving practices and appropriate small-scale mechanisation, that local government and community structures work to lower the cost of hired land, that savings groups and financial institutions extend affordable seasonal credit, and that extension curricula be built around cost management and market-oriented decision making rather than production technique alone.Item Assessing the factors influencing the commercialization of duck farming in Koboko municipality, Koboko district.(Busitema University, 2026) Manase, EmmanuelDuck farming is an important livelihood activity among smallholder farmers in Koboko Municipality, contributing to household food security, nutrition and income generation. However, despite its potential, duck farming remains greatly subsistence-oriented, with limited market participation. This study assessed the factors influencing the commercialization of duck farming in Koboko Municipality. Specifically, the study examined the socioeconomic characteristics of duck farmers, determined the level of commercialization, and analyzed the relationship between farmers’ socioeconomic characteristics and their level of commercialization. The study addressed a research gap arising from limited empirical information on duck commercialization and the socioeconomic, institutional and market factors influencing it in Koboko Municipality. Methodology relied on a cross-sectional design predicted on qualitative metric and clear classifications. Data were collected from 99 duck farmers using structured questionnaires, key informant interviews and focus group discussions. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize farmers’ characteristics, while the Household Commercialization Index (HCI) measured commercialization levels. The model which is multiple linear regression using the Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) model was used to determine factors associated with commercialization. The findings showed that the overall mean HCI was 25.80%, with 60.61% of farmers categorized as low/subsistence, 26.0% semi-commercialized and 13.0% commercialized. The regression model was statistically significant (F=18.32, p<0.001) and explained 58.4% of the variation in commercialization. Flock size, access to credit, extension services, age, education and gender had significant positive relationships with commercialization, while distance to market had a significant negative relationship. Farming experience was not significant. The study concludes that duck farming has considerable commercialization potential, but remained stack by limited production scale, financial and institutional support, and market accessibility. Strengthening access to credit and extension services, farmer groups, market information, flock expansion and market infrastructure is recommended.Item Assessing market participation among groundnut producers in Oculoi sub-county, Soroti district.(Busitema University, 2026) Esou, James ElasuMarket participation refers to the extent to which farming households engage in output markets through the sale of agricultural produce and is an important pathway toward agricultural commercialization and improved household incomes. This study assessed market participation among groundnut producers in Oculoi Sub-County, Soroti District. Specifically, the study examined the characteristics of farmers based on the forms of groundnuts sold, determined the level of market participation, and identified factors associated with the level of market participation. A cross-sectional study design was employed, and data were collected from 120 groundnut farmers using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviations, were used to summarize farmer characteristics and market participation. The Market Participation Index (MPI) was used to determine the proportion of output sold, while binary logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with high and low levels of market participation. The findings showed that males constituted 53.3% of the respondents, while females accounted for 46.7%. The mean age of farmers was 39.62 years, with an average groundnut farming experience of 9.56 years and mean land owned or accessed of 3.4 acres. Groundnut income was the most reported household income source, reported by 86.7% of farmers. Shelled groundnuts were the most sold form (40.8%), followed by unshelled groundnuts (37.5%), roasted groundnuts (14.2%) and groundnut paste (7.5%). Farmers produced an average of 215.36 kg of groundnuts and sold an average of 116.60 kg. The Market Participation Index had a mean of 51.63%, ranging from 4.27% to 87.5%. Based on the mean MPI as the cut-off point, 53.3% of farmers had high market participation, while 46.7% had low market participation. Binary logistic regression results showed that total land owned/accessed, land under groundnut cultivation, on-farm storage, and estimated yield per acre were significant predictors of the likelihood of attaining a high level of market participation (p < 0.05). The study concluded that groundnut farmers in Oculoi Sub-County had a high level of market participation, influenced mainly by farm resources and production capacity. The study recommended supporting farmers to expand economically viable groundnut production, strengthening extension and market-oriented support services, and improving access to land, on-farm storage, and productivity-enhancing inputs.Item Factors determining market access for different groundnut forms among smallholder groundnut farmers in Kobuin subcounty, Ngora district.(Busitema University, 2026-09-23) Eyou, BenjaminGroundnut production plays a significant role in providing food, income and livelihoods for smallholder farmers in Uganda. However, farmers face challenges in participating in markets, reaching buyers and choosing suitable forms in which to sell their produce. This study examined factors determining market access and participation through different groundnut marketing forms among smallholder groundnut farmers in Kobuin Sub-county, Ngora District. The study specifically identified farmers’ socio-economic characteristics, the forms of groundnuts sold, and factors influencing market access and the marketing-form outcome. A cross-sectional research design was adopted, and data were obtained from 119 farmers. The findings showed that respondents had average age of 47.75 years, a mean household size of 7.38 persons, 21.09 years of groundnut production experience, 1.26 acres under groundnuts, and average monthly income of UGX 234,625. Females represented 50.4% and males 49.6%, while 90.8% were married and 60.5% had attained primary education. All respondents reported owning land. Dried unshelled groundnuts were the most common form sold (55.5%), followed by shelled groundnuts (44.5%). The binary logistic regression model was statistically significant. Distance to market, marital status, and farm size under groundnut production significantly influenced the marketing-form outcome. The study concluded that farmers’ market access was closely associated with physical market conditions and household production characteristics, particularly distance to market, marital status and farm size. The study recommended improvement of rural feeder roads, promotion of affordable shelling and post-harvest technologies, strengthening of farmer groups