Use of selected agricultural technologies, recommended practices, and effect on productivity among tomato farmers in Luwero District.

Abstract

Despite the sector's importance, Tomato growers face numerous challenges that limit productivity. Although different initiatives and interventions have been undertaken by the government and other bodies to encourage adoption and use of these agricultural technologies and recommended practices, adoption is still minimal with experts estimating that small proportion (15 percent) of the farmers use hybrid seeds, creating unclear effects on productivity and economic outcomes. This study therefore sought to address this gap by examining how the adoption of improved agricultural technologies and recommended practices influences productivity among tomato farmers in Luwero district located, central Uganda. The general objective of the study was to assess the effect of the selected improved agricultural technologies and recommended practices on the productivity of tomato farmers in Luwero district. 120 farming households were randomly selected to participate in this study, Data were collected on socio demographic characteristics, technology adoption status, farm level factors and productivity outcomes. Probit regression model was employed to analyze the factors influencing technology adoption, while productivity differences were assessed using linear regression analysis model. Results reveal that 42.5% of farmers involved in farming as their occupation adopted improved technologies and recommended practices, with access to extension services, credit, and education significantly increasing the likelihood of adoption. Key technologies and practices adopted include Certified seeds (62.5%), Irrigation (49.6%), and Integrated pest management (49.2%) Farmers using these technologies recorded higher mean yields per plot compared to non-users, demonstrating a positive productivity effect. Major constraints to adoption include poor infrastructure, limited market access, inadequate extension services and key opportunities include income gains, high-yielding varieties, and mobile advisory services. The study concludes that targeted interventions in extension delivery, credit access, and input supply are essential to enhance technology uptake and improve tomato productivity. The findings provide actionable insights for policy makers, development partners aiming to strengthen agricultural productivity and food security in smallholder farming systems.