Department of Agriculture

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    Influence of land tenure on cotton production in kalait sub county.
    (Busitema University, 2024) Oliauna Elisha
    Tenure Security Provides Incentives for Sustainable Land Uses Practices, Long-Term Investment, and positively affects Rural Livelihoods Strategies and Poverty Reduction. Tenure insecurity is globally a critical issue for most of the poorest. This research analyses the influence of land tenure system on cotton production among the small holder farmers in Kalait sub county Tororo district in eastern Uganda. The research employed a mixed methods approach, combining quantitative data from surveys conducted across multiple farming communities with qualitative interviews to capture the bad experience of the farmers regarding their land tenure situations. The findings reveal that secure land tenure positively correlates with the increased investments in cotton production practices, access to credit facilities, and over rally yield improvements. Conversely, insecure tenure arrangements lead to hesitancy in making long term investments in soil fertility and crop management Additionally, the study highlights how socio-economic factors such as gender dynamics and local governance structures further influence the relationship between land tenure and cotton production for instance, female farmers often faced additional barriers under customary land tenure systems that limit their ability to access resources necessary for enhancing productivity The implications of this research are significant for policy maker’s aiming to improve agricultural output among the small holder farmers particularly in Kalait Sub County. By recognizing the critical role of secure land tenure in fostering sustainable agricultural practices, interventions can be designed to strengthen property rights and promote equitable access to land I resources. Ultimately, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of how institutional frameworks surrounding land ownership impact agricultural development in rural economies.
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    Analysis of the factors that influence the adoption of improved technologies in rice production by small holder farmers in nagongera sub-county in tororo district, eastern uganda.
    (Busitema University, 2024) Ochieng Gerald
    Rice is a staple food crop in Uganda, with small-scale farmers playing a vital role in its production. However, rice production in Nagongera, a rural community in eastern Uganda, faces numerous challenges, including low productivity, limited adoption of improved technologies, and inadequate knowledge of best practices. This study aimed to investigate the factors influencing technology adoption among small-scale rice farmers in Nagongera, with a focus on understanding the importance of rice production, identifying constraints to rice production, and examining current rice farming practices. Using a mixed-methods approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis methods, this study explored the socio economic, institutional, technological, and environmental factors that affect technology adoption among small-scale rice farmers in Nagongera. The study employed a survey questionnaire to collect data from 25 small-scale rice farmers, supplemented by in-depth focus group discussions with 10 farmers and 5 key informants, including agricultural extension agents, local leaders, and technology suppliers. The specific objectives of the study were to:1. Examine the importance of rice production among small-scale farmers in Nagongera, including its contribution to food security, income, and livelihoods.2. Identify the constraints faced by small-scale rice farmers in Nagongera, including biophysical, socio-economic, and institutional challenges.3. Analyze how farmers currently grow rice in Nagongera, including their knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding rice production, processing, and marketing. The findings revealed that majority of the respondents (100%) benefited from rice production as source of income, 92% noted that rice production is crucial for food security, and 44% converted rice products into livestock feeds and 48% acknowledged that rice production is a good source of employment that enhanced the livelihood among small-scale farmers in Nagongera. However, farmers face numerous constraints, 68% of the respondents noted that limited access to inputs such as improved seeds, fertilizers, and irrigation equipements, 96% acknowledged impact of climate change as a huge constraint, at least every respondent noted the issue of pest and diseases as the main constraint, about 68% of the respondents said inadequate knowledge of best practices, and at least 60% noted that lack of credits and market information are also constraints. The study also found that farmers' current rice farming practices are characterized by limited use of technology, reliance on traditional methods, and inadequate post-harvest handling and processing. Several factors were found to influence farmers adoption to improved technology in rice production such as possession of technical skills, previous experiences with technology, availability and awareness of the technology, level of education, age, among others. Basing on the research findings Government through extension agents should carryout mass sensitization through a variety of media to equip farmers with rice growing skills and new technologies in rice production.
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    The effect of sun-drying on raw eggs into egg powder to increase on transportation, storage and handling in times of excessive production among rural farmers.
    (Busitema University, 2024) Obbo Alexander
    Egg is a nutrient dense food (Ruxton, Derbyshire et al. 2010). The cyclical egg glut characterized by egg spoilage, quality deterioration and wastage imparts negatively on poultry farmers. Powdered dried egg provides a convent alternative to this problem. The focus of this study was to compare and evaluate processed whole eggs into powder form using sun drying as a method of egg powder production and the whole fresh eggs. An experiment was conducted to evaluate the potential of whole egg powders made from sun drying as processing method. The effect of sun drying on yield results of powdered eggs from whole eggs are compared to the results from whole eggs when mixed in baked cake, fried eggs and used in porridge flour so the results are compared and the difference or similarity is observed. Sun drying was opted than other methods of egg powder production because it is pocket friendly hence matching the standards of rural poultry farmers and also are able to reduce losses of fresh whole eggs in times of glut .The findings of the researcher were successful since he was able to find out that sun drying had no effect of the flavor, taste and even the shelf life of the egg powder remained the same compared with the egg powder made by other modern methods of egg powder production. This research was carried out in Busitema university Nagongera
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    Problems hindering women farmers’ involvement in various agricultural activities in nalugugu sub-county, sironko district, uganda.
    (Busitema University, 2023) Namutosi Dorothy
    This research study was conducted on problems hindering women farmers’ involvement in various agricultural activities in Nalugugu sub-county, Sironko District, Uganda. The research design was a cross-sectional design. A sample population of 105 participants was adopted by the use of purposive sampling and simple random sampling technique. Data was collected using questionnaires that were designed for women farmers involved in agricultural practices, these also included the local leaders and thus data was presented in different forms i.e., pie charts, graphs and in frequency tables. The research results, indicated that there are various problems hindering women farmers’ involvement in various agricultural activities in Nalugugu sub county, Sironko District, Uganda. The following were the problems hindering women farmers’ involvement in various agricultural activities and these included; Limited access to Land and Property Rights, Limited access to Financial Resources, Limited Access to Agricultural inputs and technology, inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, and tools, women farmers also face a problem of Gender-Based Discrimination. In this research study, the following strategies, can be developed to overcome the problems hindering women farmers’ involvement in various agricultural activities and these included; Access to Resources, providing education and training opportunities for women in agriculture, promoting gender equality in agriculture is crucial for empowering women farmers. Therefore, the involvement of women farmers in various agricultural activities, would lead to a potential in order to improve on food security in Nalugugu sub-county, Sironko District and even in Uganda as a country. This research study, pointed out various conclusions and these included; Women farmers face various challenges that hinder their involvement in agricultural activities. These challenges include limited access to resources, lack of land ownership, gender-based discrimination, and inadequate training and education.
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    Factors limiting milk production among small holder dairy farmers in bumashetii sub-county, bududa district, uganda
    (Busitema University, 2024) Mukoya Cedrick
    The study sought to assess the factors responsible for the low milk production among small holder dairy farmers in Bumasheti Sub-County in Bududa district. The study was guided by specific objectives which included establishing how marketing factors, affect the amount of milk produced by small-scale dairy farmers, determining the impact of farmer awareness on milk produced by small-scale dairy farmers and assessing the impact of cattle, breed variability on the amount of milk produced. The study used descriptive research design and a case study was Bumasheti Sub-County in Bududa District. To achieve the set objectives the study used purposive sampling and simple xii random sampling in sample selection. A sample of 55 respondents participated in study which included 34 dairy farmers, 6 advisor officers (Extensions), 8 local leaders and 7 production officers was sought from the 65 respondents. Dairy farmers filled the questionnaire because they were in constant engagement with dairy animals and introduction letter was obtained from the faculty of science education introducing the researcher to the field of research. The findings on average monthly production of milk (in liters) indicated that respondents had milked between 1000-2000, market demand and supply, competitor prices, production costs, through social media advertising, print advertising, word of mouth referrals participation, sale of dairy products (e.g., cheese, yogurt, and butter), sale of animal feed, sale of breeding stock and tourism or recreation activities. In addition, the study showed respondents stated fluctuating demand, low prices, difficulty accessing markets, breed and genetics, feeding and nutrition, health and disease management, daily, weekly, monthly, rarely consulted, improved feed quality and nutrition, increased herd size, upgraded milking equipment and changed breeding practices. Besides, the field findings show that very positive, somewhat positive, mentioned neutral, somewhat negative, very negative, significantly higher, slightly higher, slightly lower, very important, somewhat important, not very important, not at all important, strong correlation, weak correlation, correlation, great extent and moderate extent. The researcher recommends that extension workers should offer services to farmers at regular interval, government should allocate more funding, and farmers should seriously put in practice what the extension workers
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    Major causes of the decline of tomato production among small hold farmers in budondo subcounty, budondo village in jinja district, uganda
    (Busitema University, 2024) Mukesi Rogers
    Tomato [Solanum esculentum.L], is among the most widely grown vegetables globally with an estimated annual production of 182 million tons from 4,8 million hectares. The crop is ranked sixth among the most consumed crops worldwide. Therefore, the major purpose of this research was to find out the major cause for the decline of tomato production amongst small holder farmers in budondo village specifically. Materials and methods: The study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining both quantitative and qualitative methods. A questionnaire was developed to gather information on demographics, lifestyle factors, and existing management strategies for the under production of tomatoes. Interviews were conducted with a subset of participants to obtain qualitative data on their experiences, perceptions, and challenges related to tomato production and their management. Data was analyzed using descriptive and thematic analysis. Results: the study found out that there is a significant prevalence of pest and disease attacks in the area that attacked the tomato gardens and mostly the bacterial wilt disease. The study finally found out that the most commonly perceived effective management strategies were, selection of the resistant varieties, using healthy seeds, spraying with chemicals, removal of the affected crops, and others. Conclusion: Research findings underscore the need for comprehensive intervention to address the causes for the under production of tomatoes in the area of budondo.
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    Relationship between agroforestry practices and livelihood enhancement among smallholder farmers in kyanaisoke sub county, kagadi district
    (Busitema University, 2024) Muganyizi Samuel
    This study investigated the effect of agroforestry technology on livelihood improvement among smallholder farmers in Kyanaisoke Sub County, Kagadi District, and Western Uganda. The specific objectives were: (i) to identify the agroforestry practices adopted by farmers in the region, (ii) to assess the socioeconomic, institutional, and environmental factors influencing farmers' adoption of agroforestry, and (iii) to evaluate the impact of adopting agroforestry practices on the livelihoods of smallholder farmers. The study utilized a sample size of 40 respondents, employing structured interviews and observational methods for data collection. Findings indicated that farmers in Kyanaisoke Sub County predominantly adopted fruit tree integration, alley cropping, tree planting along contour lines, silvopasture, and biodiversity enhancement as key agroforestry practices. Socioeconomic factors such as income diversification and financial stability, institutional support from extension services and government programs, and environmental benefits like improved soil fertility and biodiversity conservation significantly influenced adoption decisions. Findings showed that agroforestry contributed to diversified income sources, enhanced food security, climate resilience, improved soil fertility, and inclusive opportunities for women and youth. The study concluded that agroforestry held substantial potential for sustainable livelihoods among smallholder farmers in Kyanaisoke Sub County, aligning with global efforts towards environmental sustainability and rural development. Recommendations included enhancing extension services, promoting policy frameworks supporting agroforestry, and conducting further research on scaling up successful agroforestry
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    Assessing the uptake of organic fertilizer among farmers in bunjosi village, bukokho subcounty namisindwa district.
    (Busitema University, 2024) Mauchi Michaih
    Organic fertilizers, derived from natural sources such as compost, manure, and green manure, have been shown to improve soil fertility and structure, leading to more resilient agricultural systems. This study was conducted in Bunjosi Village, Bukokho Sub County, Namisindwa District. The main objective was to assess the uptake of organic fertilizer among farmers. The specific objectives were to: identify factors influencing adoption decisions; evaluate the current level of adoption; and assess farmers' attitudes and perceptions towards organic fertilizers. Data were collected from a sample of 40 farmers using structured questionnaires and field observations. The findings showed that 65% of farmers had adopted organic fertilizer. Factors such as perceived effectiveness, accessibility, income level, and access to information were significant influences on adoption decisions. Farmers generally exhibited positive attitudes towards organic fertilizers, highlighting environmental sustainability and soil health. Based on the study findings, it was concluded that increasing access to information and providing financial incentives could boost adoption rates. It was recommended that targeted educational programs and support mechanisms be implemented to promote organic fertilizer use among farmers in similar rural settings. Given the restrictions on subsidies due to international trade conditionalities, alternative support mechanisms such as input vouchers, low-interest loans, and training programs should be considered to enhance organic fertilizer adoption.
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    Prevalence of storage pests in selected bean varieties in butiru sub county manafwa district
    (Busitema University, 2024) Masette Jacob
    Introduction: Beans are an important staple crop in Butiru Sub-County, but their storage and preservation are challenged by infestations from various pests. This research aims to determine the prevalence of storage pests infesting beans in Butiru Sub-County. Methods and materials: The study involved collecting samples of stored beans from different locations in the sub-county and assessing them for pest damage. Additionally, both qualitative and quantitative methods were employed to identify the types and abundance of pests present. The obtained data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis to determine the prevalence of storage pests and their impact on the quality and quantity of stored beans. Results: This study found out that the overall prevalence of storage pests in the selected bean varieties in Butiru Sub-County was found to be high as approximately 70% were infested with storage pests. The prevalence of storage pests varied significantly between different locations within Butiru Sub-County. Bunambafu village highest 80%, Bushakiro Village lower 60%. During the rainy season, the prevalence of storage pests was higher, with approximately 75% and during the dry season, the prevalence of storage pests decreased to around 55%. The most common storage pests found in the selected bean varieties were the bean weevil (Callosobruchus maculatus) and the maize weevil (Sitophilus zeamais). The bean weevil accounted for approximately 60% of the storage pest population, while the maize weevil accounted for around 30%. Other storage pests, such as the cowpea weevil (Callosobruchus chinensis) and the grain moth (Sitotroga cerealella), were also present but in smaller populations. The current pest management practices in Butiru Sub County were found to be ineffective in controlling storage pests in beans. Farmers mainly relied on traditional methods such as chemical pesticides, which were not sufficient in addressing the storage pest problem. Conclusion: By implementing the recommended pest management strategies, farmers can reduce post-harvest losses and improve food security in the Butiru Sub-County.
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    Social-economic factors affecting banana (musa spp) production in kotinyangha subcounty, budaka district in eastern uganda
    (Busitema University, 2024) Masaba Peter
    This study was done in Kotinyagha Sub County during June to august 2024. The overall objective was to: Analyze socio-economic factors that affect banana production in Kotinyagha Sub County, Budaka district in Eastern Uganda. Data were collected from 66 respondents using questionnaire and skill. Finding show that respondent’s income increased significantly as a result of banana production, there income increased slightly. Furthermore, respondents use the income generated from banana production for food purchases, for education expenses, income for healthcare expenses, and income for housing expenses. Basing on the finding it was concluded that there were banana grower’s cooperative society in the parish to buy the matoke like traders, and banana development organization. Therefore, it was recommended that: 1. Improve soil fertility: banana requires well drained fertile soil to produce high-quality bunches. Farmers can improve soil fertility by adding organic matter such as compost or manure, and using balanced fertilizers that provide nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. 2. Prune banana regularly: Regular pruning helps in the removing excess banana leaves and productivity of matoke. It allows farmers to control the size and shape of the tree, promotes fruiting, and removes diseased or damaged leaves. 3. Use appropriate pest and disease management techniques: Pests and diseases can significantly reduce banana yields and affect matoke quality. Farmers should use integrated pest management (IPM) techniques that combine physical, cultural, biological, and chemical controls to minimize harm to beneficial organisms and the environment. 4. Adopt climate-smart practices: Climate change is affecting banana production in many regions, and farmers need to adapt to changing weather patterns. Climate-smart practices include viii 5. Planting drought-tolerant varieties, improving soil health to enhance water retention, and implementing shade management strategies.
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    A trend analysis of coffee production in elgon zone of bududa district in buwali sub-county from 2018 to 2024
    (Busitema University, 2024) Majeme Godfrey
    This study examined the reasons for higher decline of Arabic coffee production level in Elgon zone of Bududa district in Buwali sub-county from the year (2018-2024). The study objectives were; to find out the factors for the higher decline of Arabica coffee production in Bududa district in Buwali sub-county, to assess the effects of high decline of Arabica coffee production to the people of Buwali sub-county in Bududa district, to determine the possible solutions to decline of Arabica production levels in Bududa district, Buwali sub-county.The study employed a descriptive survey research design and took qualitative approaches. The total number of respondents was 65 out of which a sample size of 100 was obtained. Data were analyzed with a for descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that there are factors for the higher decline of Arabica coffee production, there are effects of high decline of Arabica coffee production to the people, there are possible solutions to decline of Arabica production levels in Bududa district. The study recommends that support programs for farmers should be implemented, financial assistance programs or subsides could help farmer cope with economic pressure. Basing on the findings, it is recommended that there should be increased funding for research into climate adaption strategies, pest management and sustainable practices. Developing disease resistant and climate resilient varieties through genetic research could help to sustain yields despite adverse conditions. Utilizing data analytics and technology driven farming techniques can optimize resource use and improve productivity.
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    Constraints facing adoption of bee keeping in bungokho sub county, mbale district
    (Busitema University, 2024) Magai peter
    The study was conducted on the assessment of the constraints facing knowledge and adoption in Bungokho sub-county Mbale district. The study design was a cross-sectional research design and a sample size of 32 respondents was adopted using purposive sampling technique. Data was collected using questionnaire that was designed for both farmers and stakeholders and presented in form of frequency tables and charts including pie charts. The findings revealed that there are clear constraints affecting beekeeping. However, factors that were affecting beekeeping production included; - gender, age, marital status and educational level. The findings further revealed that accessibility to inputs, the most costly input in beekeeping production, followed by availability of land. Also, most farmers do not have information about beekeeping and only a negligible percentage has access to credit. The national and county governments should avail inputs like subsidized beehives in good time and make it easily accessible. Proper sensitization should be done by agricultural extension officers to all farmers about the available extension services and county government should provide sufficient facilitation to agricultural extension officers to promote extension services. Farmers should be encouraged to form groups in order to access credit services, market their produce and acquire farm inputs collectively. Both national, county governments and financial institutions should make credit easily accessible and affordable to small scale farmers. The researcher recommends further research on causes of low level of accessing extension services in general to ascertain the underlying causes of low dissemination of extension
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    Influence of women participation in community development programs on their livelihood in kizuba sub-county namutumba district, eastern uganda
    (Busitema University, 2023) Liboti Ibrahim
    This study assessed the influence of participation in community development programs on women livelihood in Kizuba sub-county, Namutumba District. The study objectives were to assess the influence of socio-economic conditions on women farmers, examine the ownership and control of agricultural production resources by women farmers and examine the influence of participation in community development programs on women farmers’ empowerment. Cross-sectional survey research designed was used to randomly collect data from 80 women farmers in Namutumba District and questionnaire were used. The data were analyzed by descriptive statistics. The findings showed that all women earn income and many of them earn monthly very regular xiii income from self-employment and commercial agriculture mainly from chickens, ducks and turkeys. Women’s level of ownership of agricultural production resources is neither high nor low and have low control over agricultural production resources and mainly participate in agricultural community training programs because they want to access to improved agricultural technology and agricultural skills for use in their farms. Therefore, the researcher recommends for enhancement of awareness raising and mainstreaming gender issues in agricultural development interventions.
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    Influence of landslides on agricultural production in bushika sub county bududa district eastern uganda
    (Busitema University, 2024) Kusolo Robert
    The study aimed at Assessing the Influence of Landslide on Agricultural Production in Bushika Sub County Bududa District Eastern Uganda. The study had three objectives. This is to say: to identify the factors that contribute the occurrence of landslides; to find out how often landslide occur; and to examine the impact of landslides and agricultural production. It was based on a research design basing on the use of descriptive survey design to assess the Influence of Landslide on Agricultural Production. A random sampling was used in the study to select a sample size of 50 respondents from a population size of 63 respondents. Questionnaires and interview guides were used to collect data from 50 respondents. The study established that there was an impact of landslides on the agricultural productivity and the results were abstained. The findings found that majority 62.0 % of the farmers agreed that landslides damages both crops and animals leading to low and poor quality products, the study found out that 54.0% of the farmers agreed that landslides always destroy transport networks on the slope of Bududa hills, furthermore the research findings shows that farmers which is 52.0% of agreed that the occurrence of landslides leads to soil infertility hence lowering the productivity of the land on crop growing, the study show that landslides always destroy the vegetation cover, this hinders the keeping of animals on large scale. This accounts for the low productivity of agriculture. More ever, the study found that 74.0% of the respondents agreed that landslides lead to severe soil erosion. The findings from the study revealed tough the downhill movement of debris down the slope. This has affected the production of crops. The study concludes that concerning the in influence of landslides on agricultural production, it concluded that there is a positive correlation between the two variables the study implied that landslides occurrence can have an impact on the agricultural productivity leading to low agricultural production. The findings indicate that landslides can cause damage of both crops and animals, leads of soil infertility and destruction of transport networks.
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    Assessing factors affecting farmers’ preference for irish potato varieties in kwanyiy sub county in kween district, eastern uganda
    (Busitema University, 2024) Kiplangat Mark
    The study was conducted on the assessment of the factors affecting potato varietal preference by farmers in Kwanyiy Sub County, Kween district. The study design was a cross-sectional research design and a sample size of 45 respondents was adopted using purposive sampling technique. Data was collected using questionnaire that was designed for both farmers and stakeholders and presented in form of frequency tables and charts both pie charts and graphs the findings revealed that there are clear factors affecting potato varietal preferences by farmers. The factors included yield, skin color, disease resistance and maturity period. Therefore, it was recommended that farmers should chose potato varieties which are resistant to disease have a high yield and takes a short maturity period.
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    Factors contributing to the decreasing adoption of sugarcanes growing in Lugolole Sub County Mayuge District
    (Busitema University, 2024) Kibwika Andrew
    This study aimed to explore the factors that have influenced the decreasing adoption of sugarcane growing among the farmers in Lugolole Sub County, Mayuge district, where cultivation has declined significantly. The study used a mixed methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis. A survey was conducted with 120 randomly selected sugarcane farmers, and 12 key informant interviews were conducted with local leaders, extension workers, and sugarcane factory representatives. The results showed that the main factors that affected the adoption of sugarcane growing were availability and accessibility of land, the profitability and marketability of sugarcane. The study also revealed that the farmers faced various constraints and challenges in sugarcane production, such as pests and diseases, droughts and floods, soil erosion and fertility loss, labor shortages and exploitation, and lack of credit and insurance. The study concluded that there is need for more supportive policies and interventions to address the issues and challenges faced by sugarcane farmers and to enhance the adoption and sustainability of sugarcane production in Lugolole Sub County and other similar areas.
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    Effect of early blight disease on tomato production in ibulanku sub-county bugweri district.
    (Busitema University, 2023) Kaswa Alaphat
    The research study established the effect of early blight disease on tomato production in Ibulanku sub county Bugweri district. The research questions were: how is early blight is spread in tomatoes, what are the effects of early blight disease in tomato yield or production and what are the possible solutions to control the effect of early blight disease in tomato production. The scope of the study included Ibulanku parish and Nawansega parish. The study was conducted within period of two months. The researcher used a descriptive research design. The study population composed of 30 respondents. The research instruments were interview guide, questionnaire, and observation. The data was carefully sorted, analyzed and interpreted and put in tables. The study found out that the spread of the early blight disease was wind, waters, splash rain drops, natural openings, insects and airborne disease. The effect of early blight on tomatoes was reduced crop yield, rotting of tomatoes, poor quality of the tomatoes, stunted growth and weakening of plant structure. The possible solutions to control early blight were cultural practices, fungicide application, crop rotation, planting resistant varieties and biological control. The conclusions were that agricultural officers should have regular visitations to the grower's gardens to give technical advice on what kind of insecticides to apply at every stage of tomato growth, organize workshops and seminars to sensitize tomato growers on how to control early blight disease, use of biological methods, planting resistant varieties, use of crop rotation, regular fungicide application and use of cultural practices
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    Factors affecting the production and marketing of maize among smallholder farmers in buyemba parish, bukatube sub-county, mayuge district
    (Busitema University, 2023) Kavuma Stephen
    Zea mays has become a staple food in Mayuge District, with the total production of maize surpassing that of wheat and rice. In addition to being consumed directly by humans, maize is also used for corn ethanol, animal feed and other maize products such as starch and corn syrup. This study assessed the factors affecting production and marketing of maize and its products among smallholder farmers in Bukatube Sub-County, Mayuge District. Data was collected through a survey of 50 maize farmers. 80% of small-scale farmers deal in growing maize and only 10% use improved varieties and pesticides. According to farmers, the perceived yield losses amounted to 583kg/ha of maize, making 35% of the average maize yield obtained by farmers. Most farmers use cultural methods to improve on the yields and prevent pests and diseases, which they found more cheaper than synthetic pesticides. The study found that limited access to agricultural inputs, limited access to market due to poor transport network, government policies, limited technologies, conservativeness of the farmers and lack of knowledge on how to improve the production and marketing of maize and its products greatly affects production. More research is required to improve on the production and marketing of maize; sensitization of the farmers is also needed as well.
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    Assessing the impact of fall armyworms on maize production and their control strategies employed by farmers in bumusomi ward bubutu towncouncil, namisindwa district.
    (Busitema University, 2024) Khainza Janet
    The study, which aimed to assess the impact of fall armyworm on maize production and the control strategies employed by farmers in Bumusomi ward, Bubutu town council, Namisindwa district, utilized a population of 50 and a sample size of 40 selected using Morgan's (1970) sampling table. Findings from the study revealed several critical insights. Firstly, factors contributing to the rapid prevalence of armyworms included inadequate pest control measures due to limited access to effective pesticides and reliance on outdated farming practices. Secondly, control strategies employed predominantly involved chemical pesticides, despite concerns over environmental sustainability and pest resistance. Challenges faced by farmers in adapting to different control strategies included limited awareness of integrated pest management practices and financial constraints hindering investment in sustainable farming techniques. The study concluded that addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach integrating education on modern pest management techniques, enhancing access to affordable and sustainable pest control solutions, and supporting farmers with financial incentives for adopting integrated pest management. Furthermore, the study recommended government interventions to subsidize organic inputs, promote biological control methods, and provide extension services tailored to local farming communities. These recommendations aim to mitigate the impact of armyworm infestations, ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability and food security in Namisindwa district.
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    Woman play crucial role in agriculture.
    (Daily Monitor., 2018-03-08) Lominda, Afedraru
    There are about 925 million undernourished people in the world today, according to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations. While many Factors influence worldwide food security levels, the gender gap in agricultural production remains one of the most pressing issues and Uganda is not exceptional.