Uptake of soil and water conservation practices among smallholder banana farmers in Buikwe District Central Uganda

Abstract

Buikwe district experiences variability in rainfall resulting into inadequate soil water for banana production. Much as SWC practices have been promoted by government for use by banana farmers to enhance banana productivity, their uptake levels were predicted to be moderate. The aim of this study was to assess uptake of soil and water conservation (SWC) practices among smallholder banana farmers in Buikwe district. The study employed both qualitative and quantitative research methods using both purposive and a multistage random sampling method in four sub-counties in the district. Data was obtained from sample respondents by using a combination of survey questionnaires alongside with key informant interviews and focus group discussions. Stata version 14 was used to generate both descriptive and inferential statistics. Inferential statistics was analyzed using Poisson regression model, while the qualitative data was analyzed by thematic approach. The majority of banana farmers in the study area (62%) had taken up at least one soil and water conservation (SWC) practice, while 38% had not used any. The results also indicate a clear variation in uptake levels with mulching 37.8%, manure 29.41%, cover crops 17.65%, retention ditches 15.97% and grass strips 9.24%. Uptake is typically limited to one or two practices, suggesting constraints such as labor, knowledge, or resources, and highlighting the need for support to expand their uptake. Access to extension services is key in promoting uptake of SWC practices. Services should expand region-specific, practical training through field demos and workshops, focusing on widely used practices like mulching and manuring, while promoting less common ones like grass strips and ditches. Secure land tenure and higher education levels, with a marginal effect of 0.86 (p < 0.001); 1.46 (p = 0.019) respectively, significantly influence uptake of SWC practices. Secure land rights encourage investment in SWC practices by assuring long-term benefits. Government should prioritize formalizing land ownership through simplified titling and dispute resolution, especially for smallholders. Government should also support adult literacy and provide tailored technical training using simple materials and demonstrations. Research should explore constraints like labor, inputs, or socio-cultural factors to design interventions encouraging broader use.