Factors Associated with Banana Productivity

Abstract

The overall aim of this study was to investigate factors associated with banana productivity. It was conducted among selected banana farmers in Numba village, Bushenyi district. Cochran’s formula (1963) was used to determine the sample size of 70 banana farmers since the population from which samples were drawn was unknown to the researcher. More so the farmers to be interviewed were selected on the basis of purposive sampling technique since there was no sampling frame from which samples could have been drawn using other sampling methods. The analysis of the collected data was aided by STATA, data has been analyzed at univariate level were descriptive statistics in form of finding averages, maximum and minimum values and the skewness of the continuous variables like Quantity of banana per unit land among. More so descriptive statistics was provided for all the individual categorical variables like providing percentage of the distribution of the data and pie charts to the show the distribution of the variables like education level e.t.c. More so bivariate analysis was carried out involving methods. ANOVA and T test statistic was performed, for categorical variables like education level and fertilizer use to ascertain whether they significantly contribute to the productivity level Quantity of banana per unit land. All tests were based on 5% significance level. Multiple regression model was used to determine, assess and examine the factors associated with banana productivity. From the results, it was observed that Though some independent variables like use fertilizer, Gate price per bunch, size of labour and Amount of fertilizer and manure applied in kilograms were found to be statistically significant contributors to Quantity of banana per unit land with their probability value less than 5% significance level, however, factors like age of farmer, gate price of banana, education level were insignificant. Following the above statement, the researcher recommended among others more use of fertilizer, setting better prices, however even though size of labour employed was found to be significant, the researcher recommended mechanization and advanced technology to speed up production. The researcher further recommends more research in areas of relationship between infrastructure and banana productivity