Factor affecting adoption of improved cassava varieties in West Nile Sub region

Abstract

Cassava is a vital staple crop in Uganda, particularly in the West Nile sub-region, where it plays a critical role in food security and income generation. Despite the development and promotion of improved cassava varieties like NAROCASS1, adoption rates remain low due to various socio-economic, institutional, and environmental factors. This study assessed the factors influencing the adoption of improved cassava varieties among smallholder farmers in the West Nile sub-region. Using cross-sectional data from 119 farmers across six districts, the study employed descriptive statistics and a logit regression model to analyse adoption patterns and constraints.

The findings revealed that 75.6% of farmers grew improved cassava varieties, with NASE 14 and NAROCASS1 being the most adopted. Key determinants of adoption included access to training, which increased the likelihood of adoption by 48.7%, and formal education, which positively influenced adoption. Conversely, informal education reduced adoption likelihood by 27.5%. Geographical disparities were also observed, with farmers in Yumbe District being 21% more likely to adopt NAROCASS1 compared to other districts. Major barriers to adoption included limited access to clean planting materials (40.2%), mistrust in improved varieties (13.39%), and lack of interest (10.71%). Production challenges such as drought (22.4%), pests, and diseases further hindered productivity.

The study concluded that targeted training programs, improved seed distribution systems, and the promotion of drought-tolerant varieties are essential to enhance adoption and productivity. Recommendations included scaling up farmer training, strengthening local seed multiplication, and replicating successful interventions from high-adoption areas like Yumbe. Addressing these challenges will improve cassava yields, household incomes, and food security in the region.