The drivers to uptake of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) crop intensification innovations among smallholder farmers in South-western Uganda : a case of CARP+ project

Abstract

In Uganda, the persistent disparity between actual potato yield (4.3-7.1t/ha) and its potential (25-30t/ha) is largely attributed to low uptake of innovative practices. Despite concerted efforts from diverse actors to promote uptake of potato crop intensification innovations among smallholder farmers, uptake remains low. This study was anchored in the Cropping System Intensification Interventions and Outcome Framework and Social Network Theory. This aided to expound the practical and theoretical implications of farmers’ practices in relation to crop intensification innovation within potato production system. It further supported to examine actors’ roles, interactions and linkages that promote uptake of potato crop intensification innovations and assess the socioeconomic drivers for uptake of potato crop intensification innovations among smallholder farmers. A Mixed-Methods research approach was employed to collect qualitative and quantitative data. Thematic analysis using ATLAS.ti software revealed that home saved seed source was most preferred because it was associated with low-cost and availability while research station seed source was perceived as expensive and only accessible by wealthier farmers. There were unenterprising perceptions towards key potato production practices such use of quality declared seed, intercropping systems and soil fertility management systems. This implied that farmers lacked basic knowledge on potato intensification innovation practices. Social Network Analysis revealed that innovation uptake was enhanced by diverse actors who interact and perform various roles at different stages of the innovation process. The ordered logit regression model revealed that access to credit, household income, distance to input markets and location were key determinants for innovation uptake. Based on these results, this study recommends use of an integrated agricultural extension services through investment in farmer education and capacity building by expanding agricultural training programs. This could promote use of quality seed, appropriate potato intercropping strategies and sustainable soil fertility management. Additionally, priority should be given to improvement in actor interactions to improve on physical access to input and output markets and promoting integrated support systems to disseminate information on input availability, credit options, and best practices in relation to potato crop intensification innovations.

Keywords: Actor interaction, Crop intensification, Extension programs, Localized markets, Potato farming practices