Assessing the Factors Affecting the Adoption of Organic Farming Practices in Banana Cropping System in Kamwenge District.

This study assessed the factors influencing the adoption of organic farming practices in banana cropping systems in Kamwenge District. The research aimed to identify existing organic farming practices, analyze the relationship between social, economic, and institutional factors affecting adoption, a...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Tukasingura, Francis
Format: Thesis
Language:English
Published: Kabale University 2024
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Online Access:http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12493/2553
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Summary:This study assessed the factors influencing the adoption of organic farming practices in banana cropping systems in Kamwenge District. The research aimed to identify existing organic farming practices, analyze the relationship between social, economic, and institutional factors affecting adoption, and examine the influence of institutional support on these practices. Utilizing a descriptive survey design, the study collected quantitative and qualitative data from 67 respondents through structured questionnaires and purposive interviews. Key findings indicated that crop rotation and cover cropping were the most prevalent practices, while compost application and Integrated Pest Management were less commonly adopted. The analysis revealed that male-headed households were more likely to apply compost and mulching compared to female-headed households. Higher education levels correlated positively with the adoption of IPM, while access to credit, extension services, social group memberships, and weather/climate information significantly enhanced the adoption of various organic farming practices. The study concluded that enhanced institutional support, educational initiatives, and financial resources were critical to promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Recommendations included improving education and extension services, developing policies to support compost and cover crop usage, and strengthening institutional frameworks to facilitate access to credit and extension services. These measures were deemed essential for increasing the adoption of organic farming practices and achieving sustainable banana production in Kamwenge District.