The contribution of non-governmental organisations (NGO) in promoting Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) among smallholder farmers: A case study of Northern Uganda Resielence Initiative (NURI) in Nebbi District.

Abstract

Climate change poses a significant threat to agricultural productivity, particularly for smallholder farmers in Northern Uganda. This study investigates the role of Civil Society Organizations, Specifically the Northern Uganda Resilience Initiative (NURI), in promoting Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) practices among smallholder farmers in Nebbi district. The primary objectives of this study were to assess the contribution of NURI in promoting CSA practices and to identify the challenges limiting CSA adoption among smallholder farmers in the region. The study employed a mixed method approach, combining descriptive and exploratory research designs. Descriptive research was used to collect prevailing information on CSA practices, while exploratory provided insights into the dynamics between NURI’s interventions and CSA adoption. Structured interviews were conducted with 78 respondents, including beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries of NURI programs, using household questionnaires and key informant interviews with the CSA coordinator of Nebbi district. The study results indicate that NURI has made significant strides in promoting CSA practices. Notable practices include the use of improved seed varieties, construction of soil and water conservation structures, integrated pest and disease management, good agronomy practices and efficient irrigation techniques. Among the CSA practices adopted by NURI beneficiaries, the study found that 94.4% of farmers have embraced conservation agriculture and the use of improved seed varieties. However, agroforestry and improved irrigation techniques saw lower adoption rates at 16.7% each, indicating that a smaller proportion of farmers have integrated trees and shrubs into their agricultural systems. Similarly, 16% of farmers implemented water-efficient technologies, while 27.8% adopted the use of organic fertilizers. Recommendations stemming from this research include enhancing financial inclusion and access to credit through partnership with financial institutions, advocating for CSA integration into agriculture development plans, and intensifying capacity-building efforts, particularly for less-adopted CSA practices such as agroforestry and improved irrigation.