Influence of collective action and access to training on market choices of dairy farmers in Ntungamo district

Abstract

The study examines the influence of collective action and access to training on market choices of dairy farmers in Ntungamo district. The study was conducted in two counties selected randomly. A sample of 80 dairy farmers was randomly selected. Both open and closed ended questionnaires were administered to respondents to collect relevant primary data. Interview and observation methods were used to collect data. The specific objectives of the study were: to characterize dairy farmers based on participation in collective action and access to training; to determine whether collective action and training contribute to helping farmers to choose higher paying markets; to determine the profitability of smallholder dairy farmers in Ntungamo district based on participation in collective action and access to training services. Descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, frequency, percentages) and t-test were used to analyze the data. Dairy farmers hat collectively participated in the market sold more quantity of milk as compared to their counterparts that participated individually in the market. Also dairy farmers that that had access to training services practiced improved management practices such as using hired labor that increased dairy productivity as compared to those who never accessed training services. The study recommends that dairy farmers should engage in collective action and participate in training programs as well as selling milk to nearby markets other than at farm gate.