Assessing the level of market participation among smallholder potato farmers in Chepkwasta sub county, Bukwo district.
No Thumbnail Available
Date
2026
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Busitema University
Abstract
Potato production is an important source of food and income for smallholder farmers in Bukwo District. However, farmers in Chepkwasta Sub-County face challenges that limit their participation in potato markets. This study assessed the level of market participation among smallholder potato farmers, characterized the farmers, identified factors affecting market participation, and determined the intensity of participation. A cross-sectional research design and multi-stage sampling technique were used to select 135 farmers from a population of 204 smallholder potato farmers. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive and regression models. The findings showed that potato farming was semi-commercialized, with 64% of farmers participating in output markets and an average market participation index of 54.5%. Education, land allocated to potatoes, extension services, access to credit, and cooperative marketing enhanced market participation, while large household sizes, poor roads, and post-harvest losses constrained commercialization. Major challenges included price volatility, middlemen price setting, high transport costs, expensive improved inputs, and limited storage facilities. The study recommends strengthening farmer cooperatives, improving rural roads and storage facilities, expanding market information services, and increasing access to improved potato seed and production inputs to enhance market participation among smallholder potato farmers.
Description
Undergraduate research report
Keywords
Citation
Cheruto, C. (2026). Assessing the level of market participation among smallholder potato farmers in Chepkwasta sub county, Bukwo district. [Unpublished undergraduate research report]. Busitema University.