IMPACT OF OPERATION WEALTH CREATION (OWC) ON AGRICULTURE

PRODUCTION IN MAGORO SUB COUNTY,

KUMI DISTRICT

BY

AMONGIN CLAIRE
17/U/8636/EKE/PE

A RESEARCH REPORT SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMICS

AND STATISTICS IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENT
FOR THE AWARD OF BACHELORS’ OF ARTS IN ECONOMICS OF
KYAMBOGO UNIVERSITY

MARCH, 2021
 DECLARATION
I hereby declare that this research report is my original work and that it has never been presented
to any University for any academic award.

SIGNED ........................................... DATE ……………………………

AMONGIN CLAIRE
17/U/8636/EKE/PE

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 APPROVAL
This is to certify that Amongin Claire carried out research entitled “Impact of Operation Wealth
Creation (OWC) on agriculture production in Magoro Sub County, Kumi district.” under my
supervision and this research report meets the basic requirements for submission with my
approval.

SIGNED............................................. DATE……………………………

MRS. KADDU MILLY

(ACADEMIC SUPERVISOR)

ii
 DEDICATION
This research report is dedicated to mum and dad who devoted moral, spiritual and financial
support so as to see me through. They have been great source of motivation and inspiration
throughout my academic life.

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Our debt of gratitude goes to Almighty God for his grace, mercy and protection all these years of
our educational life. Glory be unto his name.

I deeply appreciate my supervisor Mrs. Kaddu Milly a lecturer at the department of Economics
for her unwavering support and professional advice as my supervisor that she shared with me
throughout the period of the study, not forgetting the time she sacrificed for me out of her tight
schedules to supervise my work.

My sincere gratitude goes to all lecturers and staff of Kyambogo University especially the
department of Economics and Statistics for their support throughout my bachelors’ program in
general and in particular this research. They have added to my knowledge as I pursued my
Bachelor of Arts in Economics.

Special thanks go to my Dad and Mum who laid a strong academic foundation upon which I
have been able to reach this far. It was amidst scarcity of resources that they managed to educate
me as well as instilling important core values of hard work, persistence and determination to me.

I am also grateful to the entire fraternity of Magoro sub county, Kumi district who accepted to
provide me with the relevant information so as to see that my study was accomplished.

Finally, I would like to thank everyone including my course mates and friends, and Womayi
Samson who contributed to this study and pray that the almighty God blesses you all thousand
folds.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

DECLARATION..............................................................................................................................i

APPROVAL....................................................................................................................................ii

DEDICATION...............................................................................................................................iii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS............................................................................................................iv

TABLE OF CONTENTS................................................................................................................v

LIST OF TABLES.......................................................................................................................viii

LIST OF ACRONYMS................................................................................................................viii

ABSTRACT...................................................................................................................................ix

CHAPTER ONE..............................................................................................................................1

INTRODUCTION...........................................................................................................................1

1.0 Introduction................................................................................................................................1

1.1 Background to the Study...........................................................................................................1

1.2 Problem statement.....................................................................................................................4

1.3 General Objective......................................................................................................................5

1.3.1 Specific Objectives of the Study.............................................................................................5

1.4 Research Questions....................................................................................................................5

1.5 Significance of the Study...........................................................................................................5

1.6 Scope of the Study.....................................................................................................................6

1.6.1 Content Scope.........................................................................................................................6

1.6.2 Geographical Scope................................................................................................................6

1.6.3 Time scope..............................................................................................................................6

CHAPTER TWO.............................................................................................................................7

LITERATURE REVIEW................................................................................................................7

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2.1 Introduction................................................................................................................................7

2.2 Improved animal breeds and crop varieties on farm productivity.............................................7

2.3 Agricultural technology advice and farm productivity..............................................................9

2.4 Agricultural extension services on farm productivity.............................................................11

CHAPTER THREE.......................................................................................................................13

METHODOLOGY........................................................................................................................13

3.0 Introduction..............................................................................................................................13

3.1 Research Design......................................................................................................................13

3.2 Study Population......................................................................................................................13

3.3 Sample Size.............................................................................................................................13

3.4 Sampling technique.................................................................................................................14

3.5 Sources of Data........................................................................................................................14

3.6 Data Collection Instruments....................................................................................................14

3.6.1 Survey guide.........................................................................................................................14

3.6.2 Interview Guide....................................................................................................................14

3.7 Procedure of Data Collection...................................................................................................15

3.8 Data Analysis and Presentation...............................................................................................15

3.8.1 Qualitative data.....................................................................................................................15

3.8.2 Quantitative data...................................................................................................................15

3.9 Limitations to the study...........................................................................................................15

CHAPTER FOUR.........................................................................................................................17

CHAPTER FOUR: PRESENTATION OF RESULTS AND DISCUSSION...............................17

4.1 Introduction..............................................................................................................................17

4.2 Demographic information of respondents...............................................................................17

4.2.1 Gender of respondents..........................................................................................................18

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4.2.2 Age of Respondents............................................................................................................18

4.2.2 Marital Status of Respondents..............................................................................................18

4.2.3 Level of Education................................................................................................................18

4.3 The extent to which improved seeds / breed affects agricultural production..........................19

4.4 How technological advice affect agricultural production........................................................20

4.4 The effect of extension services on agricultural production....................................................22

CHAPTER FIVE...........................................................................................................................24

SUMMARY, DISCUSSIONS, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS......................24

5.0 Introduction..............................................................................................................................24

5.1 Summary of the study findings................................................................................................24

5.1.1 The extent to which improved seeds / breed affects agricultural production.......................24

5.1.2 How technological advice affect agricultural production.....................................................24

5.1.3 To assess the effect of extension services on agricultural production..................................25

5.2 Discussions of the study..........................................................................................................25

5.2.1 The extent to which improved seeds / breed affects agricultural production.......................25

5.2.2 To find out how technological advice affect agricultural production...................................26

5.2.3 To assess the effect of extension services on agricultural production..................................27

5.3 Conclusions to the study..........................................................................................................28

5.4 Recommendations to the study................................................................................................28

5.5 Areas for further studies..........................................................................................................30

REFERENCES..............................................................................................................................31

APPENDICES..................................................................................................................................i

APPENDIX ONE: QUESTIONNAIRS FOR PEASANT FARMERS............................................i

APPENDIX TWO: INTERVIEW GUIDE FOR OWC COORDINATOR AND EXTENSION

WORKERS......................................................................................................................................v

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 LIST OF TABLES
Table 3.1: Sample size selection....................................................................................................13
Table 4.2: Demographic information of respondents....................................................................17
Table 4.3: The extent to which improved seeds / breed affects agricultural production..............19
Table 4.4: How technological advice affect agricultural production............................................20
Table 4.5: The effect of extension services on agricultural production........................................22

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 LIST OF ACRONYMS
DDA Dairy Development Authority
FY Financial Year
GDP Growth Domestic Product
GoU Government of Uganda
HDI Human Development Index
MAAIF Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries
NAADS National Agricultural Advisory services
NARO National Agricultural Research Organization
NDP National Development Plan
OWC: Operation Wealth Creation
SPSS Statistical Package for Social Scientists
UPDF Uganda Peoples Defence Forces
WB World Bank

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 ABSTRACT
This study analyzed the “Impact of Operation Wealth Creation (OWC) on agriculture production
in Magoro Sub County, Kumi district”. The objectives of the study were to examine the extent to
which improved seeds / breed affects agricultural production, how technological advice affect
agricultural production and to assess the effect of extension services on agricultural production in
Magoro Sub County, Kumi district.

A cross sectional survey design and random and non-random sampling techniques were used to
select the samples by use of self-administered questionnaires which provided sufficient data from
the sample selected. Data was analyzed quantitatively using Statistical Package for Social
Scientists, while qualitative data was analyzed by use of content analysis. The study targeted 50
respondents from responses were obtained. Purposive sampling was used to select OWC
coordinator and agriculture extension works while simple random sampling was used to select
farmers (beneficiaries).

Results showed that 75% of the respondents indicated OWC empowered farmers to identify their
advisory needs and 70% agreed with the statement that OWC trained farmers on modern farming
methods. This implied that OWC programme helped farmers improve agricultural productivity in
Nakifuma Sub County,

The study recommends that OWC should improve its technology promotion to enhance framers’
welfare. This can be achieved through changing the attitude of farmers towards educating them
about improved methods of farming given that some do not like classroom training and help
farmers to raise funds to implement improved methods of farming. OWC should increase farmer
access to agricultural knowledge and skills encourage farmers to utilize the knowledge and
information, sensitization of farmers on advisory services, target more farmers during provision
of advisory services and implement agricultural demonstration farms. The Sub Counties and the
district should facilitate strategic enterprises and market chain development for these selected

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strategic enterprises so that collective marketing can be encouraged and farmers’ income can be
enhanced.

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 CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.0 Introduction
This chapter presents the background to the study, the statement of the problem, general and
specific objectives, research questions, scope of the study and the significance of the study.

1.1 Background to the Study

Globally, agriculture plays a crucial role in most economies especially those of developing
Countries. It provides the main source of food, income and employment to the rural populations.
Improvement in agriculture and its productivity is fundamental to achieving food security,
poverty alleviation and overall sustainable economic development (United Nations, 2014).
According to the World Bank (2014), over 70% of the world's poor live in rural areas, and
agriculture is their main source of income and employment.
Nearly 870 million people out of the World’s 7.1 billion, (one out of eight) were suffering from
chronic undernourishment in 2010-2012. Almost all the hungry people (852 million) live in
developing countries, representing 15% of the population of developing counties. There are 16
million people undernourished in developed countries (FAO, 2012). The World Bank (2014) also
estimates that about 2.4 billion people lived on less than US $2 a day in, the average poverty line
in developing countries.
According to the World Bank (2014), in Africa, agriculture employs 65% of the labor force and
accounts for 32% of gross domestic product. Agriculture is essential for sub-Saharan Africa’s
growth and for achieving the Millennium Development Goal of halving poverty by 2015.
A higher and sustained growth requires attention to five core areas of public action: Facilitating
agricultural markets and trade; improving agricultural productivity; investing in public
infrastructure for agricultural growth; Reducing rural vulnerability and insecurity; and Improving
agricultural policy and institutions. In many developing countries agriculture is a significant
source of food for citizens and a means of livelihood for the most vulnerable members. Raising
agricultural productivity is an important policy goal for concerned governments and
development agencies, (Kuku, Ajibola, & Saweda, 2011).

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Most literatures seem to conclude that investments in agriculture and rural development, both
private and public, stimulate economic growth and development. According to IFAD (2013),
good agricultural performance was very important in reducing poverty and hunger rates in the
more successful countries. Agricultural growth also has a high poverty reduction pay-off than
non-agricultural growth or investments (World Bank, 2008).
Uganda is a landlocked country in East Africa with a total population of about 37 million people
(UBOS, 2014). It has a total area of 241,550.7 square kilometers (sq. km) of which 41,743.2 sq
km are open water and swamps, and 199,807.4 sq km is land. Just like most African counties,
Uganda is blessed with fertile soils, ample rainfall and a number of valuable natural resources
(UBOS, 2013).
Uganda still faces considerable challenges in meeting its poverty eradication objective of
reducing absolute poverty to less than 10% of the population by 2017 and to improve the
wellbeing of all Ugandans. The proportion of the national population living below the poverty
line fell from 56% in 1992 through 44% in 1997 to 35% in 2000. It rose to 38% in 2013, but
declined to at 31% in 2014 (UBOS, 2016). Currently, about 24.5 percent (7.5 million) of the
population are below the national poverty line (UBOS, 2016).
Uganda’s rural areas account for 85% of the population and 94.4% of the poor, while urban areas
account for 15% of the population but only 5.6 percent of the poor. Analysis of household
incomes also reveals that 20% of the richest households share 71% of total income, while the
poorest 20% of households share only 2%. The Country’s Gini coefficient is on average 0.42.
This reflects a relatively high level of income inequality (MFPED, 2011).
Uganda’s agriculture employs about 73% of all workers in the country while only generating less
than 15% of the economic output of the country. Those engaged in agriculture are primarily rural
based having a lower standard of living than those working in other sectors of the economy
(IFPRI, 2012).
The Country’s agriculture is characterized by smallholder farming with hand hoe as the major
production tool. Farmers produce various commodities, mostly for own consumption. The major
food crops include plantains (bananas), maize, millet, sorghum, cassava, potatoes, and rice as
staples, and also a range of pulses, fruits, and vegetables. Yields are uniformly low across all of 8
these commodities. The smallholder farmers lack transport, inputs and technology to help them
increase their production and reduce pests and disease. They also lack access to financial

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services, to give them capital for improving and expanding their productivity. Agriculture is
mainly rain-fed, and rainfall in most parts of Uganda is plentiful and allows double cropping,
especially in the Central and Western parts of the country (IFAD, 2013).
The government of Uganda has over the years attempted to promote agriculture through its
development plans, however, success has been painfully low. The key policy interventions that
have targeted agriculture include: Plan for Modernization of Agriculture (PMA) (2000 - 2010)
that sought to transform subsistence agriculture to commercial agriculture for poverty reduction.
Agricultural Sector Development Strategy and Investment Plan (DSIP), (2010-2015). It replaced
the PMA with a mission to “Transform subsistence farming to commercial agriculture”, by
increasing rural incomes and livelihoods and improving household food and nutrition security.
The National Agricultural Advisory Services (OWC): it was created in 2001 to address
constraints of lack of access to agricultural information, knowledge and improved technology
among rural poor farmers in the country (IFPRI, 2012; MAAIF, 2014)
Much as limited technology, pests and diseases limit agricultural productivity in Uganda
(Nabbumba & Bihiigwa, 2003), the poor performance of agriculture is also exacerbated by poor
implementation of agricultural support programs (PMA, DSIP and OWC) and the neglect of the
sector in development priories by the government. Neglect of agriculture and the bias towards
investment in urban industrial economy can be traced historically to the misplaced emphasis on
rapid industrialization via import substitution and exchange rate overvaluation (Todaro & Smith,
2011).

The modest increases in aggregate crop production have been achieved from the expansion of
cultivated land rather than increased investment in production technologies to raise crop yields
per unit area of land. As access to land is increasingly constrained by high population growth,
further expansion of cultivated land will be unsustainable in Uganda (IFPRI, 2008).

Although literatures indicate that agricultural productivity growth is effective in reducing

poverty and enhancing economic development, the effects are so varied and unclear on economic
development across many developing countries including Uganda. This study seeks to assess the
impact of agricultural productivity on economic development in Uganda.

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1.2 Problem statement
Majority of Ugandan households derive their livelihood from agriculture which according to the
Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), 2014, agriculture sector (farming, livestock, fishing and
forestry) engaged over 71.9% of the working population. Agriculture in Uganda is dominated by
small holder farmers who occupy the majority of land and produce most of the crop and
livestock products (Salami et al. 2016). One of the key long-standing challenges faced by
smallholder farmers is low production and productivity (AfDB, 2014) stemming from lack of
sustainable access to markets; failure to maintain a consistent policy regime and functional
institutions; insufficient skilled agricultural labor force; and inadequate attention to natural
resources sustainability (MAAIF, 2016).

In absolute terms, national approved budget allocation to agriculture (MAAIF 2016) has been
increasing from Ushs 365.6 billion in 2010/11 to Ushs 480 billion in 2015/16. This means the
agricultural sector budget has increased by only 30%; which is far less than the 140% increase in
the total national budget; which increased from UShs 7,376.86 billion in 2010/11 to Ushs
18,310.86 billion in 2015/16 However, as a share of the total national budget, the agricultural
sector has been declining from 5.0% in 2010/11 to 2.6% in 2015/16. The share of the agricultural
sector budget in the national budget has been declining from 5.0% in 2010/11 to 2.6% in 2015/16
(UBOS Report, 2017). This means that the Government of Uganda is not committed to meeting
the comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Program CAADP targets.

Despite all these endeavors by government for instance through NAADs, Operation Wealth
Creation (OWC) among others to improve the performance of the agricultural sector since it
employs most Ugandans especially in the rural areas the sector has not fully stabilized and
developed to amicably crack down the challenge of food insecurity in the country due to low
agricultural output and productivity emanating from such various productivity constraints as
unavailability of quality seeds and proper irrigation, and lack of linkages between formal and
informal seed sector, lack of agricultural inputs, pests and diseases, insufficient skilled
agricultural labor force, (MAAIF, 2016). It is based on this background that the researcher wants
to examine the impact of agricultural extension services on farmer’s income in Kumi district.

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1.3 General Objective
To examine impact of operation wealth creation (OWC) on agriculture production in Magoro sub
county, Kumi district

1.3.1 Specific Objectives of the Study

i. To examine the extent to which improved seeds / breed affects agricultural production in
Magoro Sub County, Kumi district
ii. To find out how technological advice affect agricultural production in Magoro Sub
County, Kumi district
iii. To assess the effect of extension services on agricultural production in Magoro Sub
County, Kumi district

1.4 Research Questions

i. To what extent does improved seeds/breed affects agricultural production in Magoro Sub
County, Kumi district?
ii. How does technical advice affect agricultural production in Magoro Sub County, Kumi
district?
iii. What are the effects of extension services on agricultural production in Magoro Sub
County, Kumi district?

1.5 Significance of the Study

The findings will highlight the importance of agriculture towards household incomes and
productivity which will encourage policy makers and other development partners to strengthen
agriculture through appropriate policy recommendations.

The findings will be useful to future researchers who will be studying a similar topic as they will
use it as literature review.

The research will benefit the people of Kumi district to know why their household incomes are
low, what affects their productivity since the study will come up with policy measure and
recommendations on how to improve productivity and house hold incomes.

The findings will be useful to the policy makers who are involved in designing agricultural
policies aimed at improving agricultural productivity.

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The findings will be useful to farmers to devise means by use of researched knowledge provided
by the research to eradicate poverty through improved productivity of crops and livestock,
efficiency, marketing as well as addressing other problems such limited knowledge of the
farmers, poor farming methods and dependency on nature.

1.6 Scope of the Study

The study was conducted within specific scope in terms of geography; content and time to enable
the researcher contextualize the study.

1.6.1 Content Scope

The study examined different aspects of the two variables, role of government in improving
agricultural productivity in Magoro Sub County, Kumi district.
1.6.2 Geographical Scope
Geographically, the study was carried out in Magoro Sub County, Kumi district. It was chosen
because it is one of the districts that have not been performing well in agriculture and the
researcher wanted to know how government intervention can improve agricultural productivity
in the region.

1.6.3 Time scope

The time scope of the study covered a period of literature review from 2011 to 2020 so as to
deeply analyze the study. The period of research to undertake the study was from December to
March, 2021.

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CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Introduction
This chapter provides review of the available literature related to the topic under the study. It
contain literature from various sources like text books, journals, Newspapers and internet relating
to the Operation Wealth Creation (OWC) and farm productivity.

2.2 Improved animal breeds and crop varieties on farm productivity

Improved Animal Breeds
A small share of milk is produced on commercial farms with relatively large herds of exotic
dairy cows (Wong and Kibirige, 2016). From a regional perspective, most dairy production
activities take place in Western Uganda. Central Uganda, where Kampala City is located,
provides the biggest market for raw liquid milk in the country. Dairy marketing remains largely
informal, with nearly 80 percent of all milk sold as unprocessed fluid milk (Dobson, 2013; Wong
and Kibirige, 2016). However, the formal dairy industry has substantially grown, especially in
response to the demand of urban, educated consumers for hygienic and high-quality products.

The Dairy Development Authority (DDA), a government agency, regulates the industry and
works to increase production and consumption of milk for economic development and improved
nutrition. The DDA has created an enabling business environment that has spurred increased
milk production (Kjær et al., 2012). Among private actors, milk traders and processors are the
most significant agents. However, farmer groups and international nongovernmental
organizations such as Send a Cow, Heifer International, and Land O’Lakes, in particular, have
been active in the supply of essential inputs, crossbreeding, extension services, and enhancing
efforts for improved dairy technology adoption (Mbowa et al., 2016).

The adoption and extensive use of improved agricultural technologies is vital for poverty
reduction and improved food and nutritional security in enveloping countries (Barrett et al.,
2013).At the farm level, adoption of improved dairy cows could potentially improve milk yield,
which translates into higher production per unit area or per cow.

7
Increased milk production will stimulate rural milk markets and the integration of smallholders
into improved value chains, thus improving producer incomes, which in turn can be used to
purchase other foods to satisfy household nutritional needs (MAAIF, 2015). Observations in
Uganda have shown substantial transformations in livestock husbandry practices, with dairy
farms shifting away from free-range to pad docking, accompanied by reduced herd sizes of
improved breeds (Dobson, 2013; Mbowa et al., 2016).

Raw milk production has shown growth since 2000, and the share of exotic crossbreeds to local
cattle has increased by 7% between 2005 and 2009, with a remarkable 20 percent more
households taking on dairy farming as a commercial venture between 2005 and 2009 (Mbowa et
al., 2012). These increases in milk production seem to be the result of more farmers adopting
high-yielding cow breeds than of increased herd sizes (Mbowa et al., 2012). Further, per capita
milk consumption has grown from an average of about 28 liters per year in early 2000 to about
58 liters per year in 2010 (Dobson, 2005; Mbowa et al., 2012). Although this is still much lower
than the international recommended milk consumption level of 200 liters per capita per year, it is
higher than the average of Countries in SSA which is estimated at 30 liters per year (Gerosa &
Skoet, 2012). Higher milk production and improved consumer incomes among some sections of
the population are considered some of the major reasons for increased milk consumption
(Dobson, 2005; Gerosa and Skoet, 2012).

Introducing breeding technologies such as cross breeding will be important for raising dairy
productivity, but this will need to be met with support to enable farmers to manage this increased
productivity. In many cases, extension services are already strained, but will be integral for
smallholders to manage improved breeds (P. Karamu, S. MacMillan, 2015)

Improved Seeds
Kiiza et al (2016) has also shown that access to market information has a positive and significant
impact on the intensity of adopting improved seed for all crops while adoption of improved seed
has a positive and significant effect on farm yields and gross farm returns.
An important prerequisite for creating high quality crops with good growth and high yield is
good seeds, and therefore improved seeds have been developed (www.rootcapital, 2012).
Improved seeds, such as hybrids or treated seeds are designed to adapt to local conditions and

8
can also be resistant against fungus, pests and different diseases. Therefore, they are less
sensitive to environmental changes and harsh weather conditions.
In order to create hybrid seeds two or more different inbred lines are crossed (Smale, et al. 2016)
Treated seeds can be covered in a chemical solution, often fungicides or insecticides, prior to
planting (McMullen, et al. 2001). A disadvantage of improved seeds is that the ability to increase
the yield s drops when improved seeds are recycled (Smale, et al., 2009). This means that if the
seeds are planted a second or third time the yield will be lower than when the seeds are new.
New seeds must therefore be purchased prior to each sowing period to get the higher yield. The
need for new seeds means additional costs for farmers, but the advantage is a higher yield, which
increases the farm income.
According to International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) East African country’s
poverty is reduced twice as effectively by agriculture than industry led growth (www, rural
poverty portal, 4, 2012). A higher yield emanating from improved seeds of crops enables farmers
to sell parts of their harvest; which in the long run makes it possible to improve their financial
situation (Emana et al., 2010).

2.3 Agricultural technology advice and farm productivity

Agricultural technology adoption is the application of mechanical technology and increased
power to agriculture (Moyo et al. 2015). It involves use of tractors, human powered and animal
powered implements, irrigation systems, food processing and related technologies, new seed
varieties and equipment.

Adoption of agricultural technologies can reduce poverty both directly and indirectly (Becerril &
Abdullah, 2010; Moyo et al. 2015). The direct effects include the productivity gains and low cost
of production which can improve income of the adopters while the indirect benefits from the
technology adoption may come in the form of increased supply which may lower food prices..
Adoption of improved technology has been identified as a key measure towards achieving food
security (Langyintuo et al., 2016). Peasant farmers have the potential to enhance their welfare as
well as their food security situation if they make use of improved agricultural technologies
(Mendola, 2017).

Development in technology creates opportunities, benefits and efficiency gains for farmers
resulting to competitive utilization of factors of production (Gurel, 1998). Globally agriculture

9
has a high risk and uncertainty due to its production being highly influenced by other factors that
are beyond the farmer’s control including pestilence, diseases, weather, and elastic demand of
Produce and infrastructural need due to produce bulkiness (Batiano et al. 2014).

Dissemination of information on elite agricultural technologies is a key intervention for

increased productivity hence improved livelihood. Effective extension system needs to
continuously be updated and fine-tuned by new information derived from research that is
relevant to farmers’ needs (Picciotto and Anderson, 2015).

In Uganda, despite 71 % and 43.2% of farmers demanding for extension services in crop and
animal husbandry respectively, only 17% of crop and 21% of animal farmers were served by the
extension services (Muwanika et. al, 2015). Research and adoption of technological
improvements are crucial to increasing agricultural productivity and reducing poverty, while
sustaining the agro-ecosystems that support livelihoods (Kassie et al., 2011; Asfaw et al., 2012)

According to the PEAP, 2004, declines in agricultural incomes fuelled a three percent increase in
income poverty and hence widened inequality between 2000 and 2003. To this effect, many
efforts have been made to improve the performance of the Agricultural sector, in Uganda. For
example, Uganda’s past and current medium term plan has been focused on modernizing
agriculture as an engine for economic growth and poverty eradication. One area of intervention
by government is agricultural extension and technologies aimed at improving productivity in
farm and non-farm activities in a bid to reduce poverty.

During the last decade the country has witnessed modest increases in agricultural production
mainly as result of increase in production area and to a limited extent, use of improved
technology. However, these increases have not resulted into increased profitability of agricultural
production and household incomes. This has been primarily due to low adoption of existing
technologies (Benin et al, 2017). In particular, poverty in most developing countries is largely a
result of low agricultural productivity arising from very low utilization of modern inputs and
technology

The spur for extension and agricultural technology hinges on the fact that extension services and
agricultural technology constitute a substantial portion of the Plan for Modernization of
Agriculture (PMA) strategy for achieving Pillar II of the Poverty Eradication Action Plan

10
(PEAP). Comparison of irrigated versus non-irrigated areas indicate that crop productivity and
output tend to be much higher in irrigated systems than the non-irrigated and rain-feed areas
(Datt and Ravallion 2014).
In principle, improved crop varieties are scale-neutral and can be adopted by farms of all sizes,
but the same is not always true of other technologies or of complementary inputs like irrigation
and machines, and access to fertilizers and credit. If institutions that provide these services and
inputs are biased in favor of large farms, the poor may not be able to adopt new technologies
(Javier, 2017). Agricultural extension economic impact studies have shown a positive effect of
extension on technology adoption, farm productivity and farm profits hence poverty reduction
(Foti, Nyakudya, Moyo, and Chikuvire, 2012).

2.4 Agricultural extension services on farm productivity

The adoption of technologies and better practices is the core of extension interventions. Target
farmers in extension need to pass in a certain process before achieving their ultimate goal of
improving productivity. The process includes awareness, knowledge, adoption of technology or
practice and change in farmers’ productivity (FAO 2016). To this end, various extension
methods are used, such as extension contacts, meetings, mass media, demonstrations, etc. In
addition to these, there are informal networks where technologies, knowledge and practices are
spread to other farmers. Bringing agricultural growth has been a main agenda for most sub-
Saharan African countries. Investment in extension services is an important tool for improving
agricultural productivity and increasing farmers’ incomes (Anderson 2016).

Agricultural extension has long been seen as a key element for enabling farmers to obtain
information and technologies that can improve their livelihoods (Purcell & Anderson 1997) and
is recognized as an important factor in promoting agricultural development (Anderson & Feder
2016). Hence, from a development policy perspective, investments in extension services are
considered as potentially important tools for improving agricultural productivity and increasing
farmers’ incomes (Anderson 2007). Consequently, sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries have
been implementing various agricultural extension programmes to improve agricultural
production and productivity, farm income and rural livelihoods. Extension models such as
training and visit (T&V), participatory approaches, farmer field schools (FFSs), ICT-based on-

11
line advisory services to farmers and promotion of model farms (Waddington et al. 2010) have
been used in different countries.

In order to raise farmers' income and production in developing countries, governments have been
aggressively promoting and reforming agricultural extension services in their countries. Uganda
has been experiencing major changes in agricultural extension system, which can be summarized
as regulatory from 1920 to 1956, advisory from 1956 to 1971, dormancy from 1972 to 1981, and
then various educational emphases from 1982 to 1997. In 1997 as per the Local Government
(LG) Act of 1992, the provision of agricultural extension and other agricultural support services
became the responsibility of local governments (Benin et al, 2017).

The government of Uganda decentralized extension services in expectation that the services will
be closer to the people, and more relevant. Consequently, the provision of agricultural extension
and other agricultural support services became the responsibility of local governments in 1997,
as per the Local Government (LG) Act (Benin et al, 2016).
The philosophical underpinning for the NAADS design is the need to empower farmers. It is
grounded into the overarching government policy of decentralization (MAAIF, 2015). NAADS
was established with the mandate of increasing farmers’ access to information, knowledge and
improved agricultural technologies through the overhaul of the extension services delivery
system from supply-driven to a demand-driven service. Other areas of NAADS intervention to
support farmer productivity and participation in the market included support to formation of
farmer groups and savings and credit cooperatives (Okoboi, 2011)

12
 CHAPTER THREE

METHODOLOGY

3.0 Introduction
This chapter presents research design, the area of study, target population, sampling procedure,
sample size, data collection methods and instruments, data analysis and presentation.

3.1 Research Design

The researcher used a cross sectional research design for the study; this involved both qualitative
and quantitative research designs. Qualitative design involved in-depth probing and application
of subjectively interpreted data (Saunders at al, 2018). Qualitative research enabled the
researcher to gather in-depth information about the study, for example unstructured qualitative
interviews served this purpose. Quantitative research design was based on numerical data, and
questioning method was used to collect that data Creswell (2014).

3.2 Study Population

The study targeted people who participated in the OWC policy implementation in the rural areas
such as Agricultural extension workers, Sub County OWC Coordinator and the farmers who are
the major beneficiaries of the OWC program. These included 40 peasant farmers who are
beneficiaries of the OWC program, 7 Agricultural Extension workers and 2 OWC Coordinator
giving a total of 50 respondents.

3.3 Sample Size

According to Roscoe cited by Sekaran (2016), a sample size larger than 30 and less than 500 is
appropriate for most studies. Bailey (1992) argues that for the descriptive research, 10 percent of
the population is adequate and for research involving smaller population 40 percent may be
considered.
Table 3.1: Sample size selection

Category Population Sampl Selection method

e
OWC Coordinator 2 2 Purposive sampling
Extension workers 8 8 Purposive sampling

13
 Peasant farmers 55 45 Simple Random sampling
Total 60 50
Data Source: Primary Data (2021)

3.4 Sampling technique

Purposive and stratified sampling procedures were employed by the researcher for the study.
Sekaran (2016) suggests that purposive or judgment sampling involves choice of subjects who
are most advantageously placed or in the best position to provide the information required. 2
OWC Coordinators were purposively selected as well as 8 Agricultural Extension workers. 48
beneficiaries of these OWC program were randomly sampled into strata.

3.5 Sources of Data

Primary data was collected using a questionnaire, and an interview schedule. The questionnaires
were issued out to respondents to fill and return to the researcher. Questionnaires were used
because the research environment is open enough to allow full and honest answering, the
respondents were able to read and understand the questions and the information required was
straight forward, brief and not controversial.

The interview guides were used to collect qualitative data from key informants like OWC
coordinators and agricultural extension officers. They were conducted to get in-depth
information on key areas on each objective (Amin, 2005).

3.6 Data Collection Instruments

The researcher used both self-administered questionnaires and interview guide as instruments to
collect the required data.

3.6.1 Survey guide

A self-administered questionnaire is a data collection instrument used to gather data over a large
sample or number of respondents to provide options of answers to questions that were
formulated. The questionnaires were open and close ended with choices and alternative
questions. Questionnaires were distributed OWC beneficiaries to fill and return when duly filled.

14
Questionnaires were used because it is gives quantitative data and it is a valid document if
pretested and prepared well.

3.6.2 Interview Guide

Supplementary primary data was collected using an interview guide. With the help of a guide,
the researcher conducted a face to face personal interview with OWC Coordinator and
agricultural extension officers. This gave her an opportunity to take note of the respondents’
body language, facial expressions and non-verbal clues. This also helped the researcher to
compare responses received through interviewing with those collected using questionnaires.

3.7 Procedure of Data Collection

An introductory letter was obtained from the department Economics and Statistics that enabled
the researcher to enter the field to gather the relevant data. This letter was asking for permission
to start carrying out data collection and setting a programmes for respondents. Therefore, a letter
and a questionnaire were presented to the OWC beneficiaries. There after interview were
conducted with key informants who were the OWC coordinators and agricultural extension
officers.

3.8 Data Analysis and Presentation

3.8.1 Qualitative data.

Data analysis involved the qualitative approach of identifying the major themes arising
respondents’ answers; assigning of codes to the themes; classification of the themes under the
main theme; and integrating the responses into the report in a more descriptive and analytical
manner.

3.8.2 Quantitative data

Manual editing of questionnaires was done to eliminate errors. After coding, tabulation was done
to clearly present various responses and the interpretation. Frequencies and percentages were
used in tabulation to portray statistics used to analyze and interpret the findings of the study.
Frequency tables were used in presenting the data using statistical packages like Microsoft excel
and SPSS.

15
3.9 Limitations to the study
Negative attitude from some respondents: In this case some respondents are not willing to give
out their information for confidential purposes and this non response affected the results of the
study. However the researcher overcome this problem by convincing respondents that
information required was only for academic purposes.

Limited funds so as to be able to collect as enough information as possible, the researcher

overcome this problem by borrowing finances or resources from relatives and friends.

Limited time provided by respondents to be interviewed because of being too busy and this make
the study not to meet the deadline of submission of the report. This was overcome by requesting
for ample time to hold discussions with key informants.

16
 CHAPTER FOUR
CHAPTER FOUR: PRESENTATION OF RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
4.1 Introduction
Analyses based on data collected from the research field work are presented in this chapter. The
analyses cover demographic features of respondents. Analysis is based on study objectives.

4.2 Demographic information of respondents

A total of 50 respondents participated in the study. They provided personal information on a
variety of variables. This information helped in ascertaining the validity of the responses they
provided. The findings are summarized in the table below.
Table 4.2: Demographic information of respondents

Variable Category F %
Gender Male 23 46
Female 27 54
Age of respondents 20-25 yrs 27 54
25-30 yrs 13 26
30-35 yrs 7 14
35+ yrs 3 6
Marital status Married 35 70
Not married 15 30
Education No formal schooling 11 22

Primary 10 20
Secondary 5 10
Certificate 20 40
Degree + 4 8
Source: Primary data (2021)

17
4.2.1 Gender of respondents
The respondents were asked to indicate their gender because the researcher wanted to make sure
that the views of both male and female were adequately represented. The information in table 4.2
above shows that, majority 27(54%) of the respondents were female and 23(46%) were male
respondents. This implies that all views of both genders were represented.

4.2.2 Age of Respondents

The respondents also indicated their age category. The findings in Table 4.2 above show that
the majority 54% of the respondnets were aged 20-25 yrs, 26% were aged 25-30 yrs, 14% were
aged 30-35 yrs and 6% were aged 35+ yrs. This implies that the majority of reapsndnets were
mature enough to undertand the issues that were being inveistgated and so were abale to provide
reliable responses.

4.2.2 Marital Status of Respondents

Respondents’ also indicted their marital status. Majority of respondents 70% were married and
30% of respondents were not married.

4.2.3 Level of Education

The respondents also indicated their education attainment. Table 4.2 shows that 22% had no
formal schooling, 20% had attained primary level, 10% had attained secondary level, 40% of
respondents had attained certificates and 8% had attained a degree and above level of education.
Therefore, majority of respondents had higher level of education which enabled them to have
adequate knowledge on the issues that were being investigated. So it can be argue that they
provided reliable responses.

18
4.3 The extent to which improved seeds / breed affects agricultural production
Table 4.3: The extent to which improved seeds / breed affects agricultural production

Statements SA A N D SD

F % F % F % F % F %

Distribution of quality seeds improves 36 76 5 1 2 4 - - 7 14

agricultural production 0

Distribution of improved live stock 24 48 12 2 4 8 8 16 2 4

improves agricultural production 4

Adoption of improved dairy cows could 25 50 11 2 - - 4 8 10 20

potentially improve milk yield, which 2
translates into higher production per unit
area or per cow.
Increased milk production will stimulate 30 60 - - - - 1 28 6 12
rural milk markets and the integration of 4
smallholders into improved value chains,
thus improving producer incomes
Introducing breeding technologies such as 18 36 9 1 7 14 5 10 11 22
cross breeding will be important for 8
raising dairy productivity
Source: Primary Data, (2021)

Table 4.3 above reveal that majority of respondents 76% strongly agreed that distribution of
quality seeds improves agricultural production, 10% of respondents agreed with the statement,
4% of the respondents was neutral none of the respondent disagreed with the statement whereas
14% of the respondents strongly disagreed with the statement.

Relatedly, majority of respondents 48% strongly agreed with the statement that distribution of
improved live stock improves agricultural production, 24% of respondents agreed with
statement, none of the respondents was neutral of the statement, 8% of respondents disagreed
and 20% of respondents strongly disagreed with the statement.

19
Further still, on the component adoption of improved dairy cows could potentially improve milk
yield, which translates into higher production per unit area or per cow, 50% of the respondents
strongly agreed with the statement, 22% of respondents agreed with the statement, none of the
respondent were neutral of the statement, 8% of respondents disagreed and 24% strongly
disagreed with the statement.

On sub component increased milk production will stimulate rural milk markets and the
integration of smallholders into improved value chains, thus improving producer incomes, 60%
strongly agreed with the statement, none of the respondent agreed or was neutral of the
statement, 28% of respondents disagreed with the statement, and 12% of the respondents
strongly agreed with the statement.

On sub component introducing breeding technologies such as cross breeding will be important
for raising dairy productivity, 36% of respondents strongly agreed with the statement, 18%
agreed, 14% of respondents were neutral of the statement, 10% of the respondents strongly
disagreed with the statement respectively and 22% of respondents strongly disagreed with the
statement.

4.4 How technological advice affect agricultural production

Table 4.4: How technological advice affect agricultural production

Statements SA A N D SD

F % F % F % F % F %

Availability of modern technology has enabled 24 48 1 20 3 6 6 12 7 14

farmers access market information 0

Market information is availed by government to 15 30 1 24 3 6 17 34 3 9

the farmers 2

OWC programmes increase households’ access 30 60 - - 6 1 5 10 9 18

to information and technology and training 2

Training of farmers on new technology increases 36 72 4 8 - - - - 10 20

agricultural production

20
 OWC programmes facilitate quality of advisory 4 8 - - - - 6 12 38 76
services and promote adoption to new crop
livestock enterprise and use of modern
agriculture production technologies
Development in technology creates 30 60 8 16 - - - - 12 24
opportunities, benefits and efficiency gains for
farmers resulting to competitive utilization of
factors of production
Source: Primary Data, (2021)

Finding in the table 4.4 shows that 48% of respondents strongly agreed that availability of
modern technology has enabled farmers access market information, 20% agreed with the
statement, 6% of the respondents where neutral about the statement, 12% disagreed and 14% of
the respondents strongly disagreed with the statement.

On sub component market information is availed by government to the farmers, 30% of the
respondents strongly agreed with the statement, 24% agreed with statement, 6% of respondents
were neutral, 34% disagreed with the statement and 9% of respondents strongly disagreed with
the statement respectively.

On sub component OWC programmes increase households’ access to information and

technology and training, this was supported by 60% of respondents strongly agreeing with the
statement, 12% of respondents were neutral of the statement 10% of the respondents disagreed
with the statement and 18% of the respondents strongly disagreed with the statement.

Study findings revealed that training of farmers on new technology increases agricultural
production with majority of responses 72% strongly agreeing with the statement, 8% agreed with
the statement, none of the respondent was not sure of the statement or disagreed and 20% of
respondents disagreed with the statement.

Findings also indicated that OWC programmes facilitate quality of advisory services and
promote adoption to new crop livestock enterprise and use of modern agriculture production
technologies, this statement was strongly disagreed with majority of respondents 76% strongly

21
disagreeing, 12% disagreed with the statement, none of respondents were not sure of the
statement, and 25% of respondents strongly agreed with the statement.

Findings revealed that development in technology creates opportunities, benefits and efficiency
gains for farmers resulting to competitive utilization of factors of production, with majority of
respondents 68% strongly agreeing with the statement, 16% of respondents agreed with the
statement, none of the respondents were neutral to the study and 24% of the respondents strongly
with the statement.

4.4 The effect of extension services on agricultural production

Table 4.5: The effect of extension services on agricultural production

Statements SA A N D SD

F % F % F % F % F %

Agricultural advisory services are extended 35 70 - - - - 1 20 5 10

to the farmers in Magoro Sub County, Kumi 0
district
New farming techniques have been taught 40 80 2 4 3 6 5 10 - -
to the farmers in Magoro Sub County, Kumi
district
The people responsible for extension 30 60 10 2 - - 7 14 3 6
services are well trained 0

Before in puts are given, farmers are 30 60 - - 7 14 5 10 8 16

educated about their use
Socio economic factors are limiting 27 54 - - - - 1 20 13 26
extension services in Magoro Sub County, 0
Kumi district
The extension workers from the District 42 84 - - - - - - 8 16
interact frequently with the farmers in
Magoro Sub County, Kumi district
Source: Primary Data, (2021)

22
Findings in the table 4.5 above reveal that majority of respondents 70% strongly agreed with the
statement that agricultural advisory services are extended to the farmers in Magoro Sub County,
Kumi district, none of the respondents neither agreed with the statement nor was neutral, 20%
and 10% of respondents strongly disagreed with the statement respectively.

Study findings further revealed that new farming techniques have been taught to the farmers in
Magoro Sub County, Kumi district, Majority of respondents 80% strongly agreed with the
statement, 4% of respondents agreed with the statement, 6% where not sure of the statement
whereas 10% of the respondents disagreed with the statement.

On sub component people responsible for extension services are well trained, 60% of the
respondents strongly agreed with the statement, 20% agreed with the statement, none of the
respondents was neutral of the statement 14% of respondents strongly disagreed with the
statement respectively.

Study findings before in puts are given, farmers are educated about their use, this was supported
with majority of respondents 60% strongly agreeing with the statement, 14% of respondents
were not sure, 10% and 15% of respondents strongly disagreed with the statements.

On sub component socio economic factors are limiting extension services in Magoro Sub
County, Kumi district, majority of respondents 54% strongly agreed with the statement, 20%
disagreed with the statement, and 26% of the respondents strongly disagreed with the statement.
None of the respondents neither agreed nor was neutral about the statement.

Study findings revealed that the extension workers from the District interact frequently with the
farmers in Magoro Sub County, Kumi district, majority of respondents 84% strongly agreed with
the statement, whereas 16% strongly disagreed with the statement.

23
 CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY, DISCUSSIONS, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
5.0 Introduction
This chapter presents the summary of the findings according to the objectives of the study which
included; to examine the extent to which improved seeds / breed affects agricultural production,
To find out how technological advice affect agricultural production and to assess the effect of
extension services on agricultural production in Magoro Sub County, Kumi district.
5.1 Summary of the study findings
5.1.1 The extent to which improved seeds / breed affects agricultural production
The findings revealed that OWC programme had introduced improved crops and livestock and
framer groups had access to these technologies and the farmers agreed that the improved
technologies had better yields per area compared to the traditional one although the animal were
more susceptible to diseases than the local ones.

Further still, study findings revealed that adoption of improved dairy cows could potentially
improve milk yield, which translates into higher production per unit area or per cow, in the
district and related, findings revealed that increased milk production will stimulate rural milk
markets and the integration of smallholders into improved value chains, thus improving producer
incomes with majority of respondents strongly agreeing with the statement.

5.1.2 How technological advice affect agricultural production

Study findings revealed that availability of modern technology has enabled farmers to access
market information to farmer in the area, OWC programmes increase households’ access to
information and technology and training of framers and study findings also revealed that training
of farmers on new technology increases agricultural production with majority of respondents
strongly agreeing with the statement.

Findings also indicated that OWC programmes facilitate quality of advisory services and
promote adoption to new crop livestock enterprise and use of modern agriculture production
technologies, development in technology creates opportunities, benefits and efficiency gains for
farmers resulting to competitive utilization of factors of production, with majority of respondents
strongly agreeing with the statement.

24
5.1.3 To assess the effect of extension services on agricultural production
The OWC programme had increased farmer access to advisory service and because of this
farmers and knowledge on management of specific crops and animals increased and farmers had
put this skills and knowledge into use and agronomics practices had improved. The farmers were
satisfied with the quality of services offered.

Study findings further revealed that new farming techniques have been taught to the farmers in
Magoro Sub County, Kumi district, with majority of respondents strongly agreed with the
statement.

Further still, study findings indicated that people responsible for extension services are well
trained and before in puts are given, farmers are educated about their use.

5.2 Discussions of the study

5.2.1 The extent to which improved seeds / breed affects agricultural production
The study findings are supported by (Wong and Kibirige, 2016) who noted that a small share of
milk is produced on commercial farms with relatively large herds of exotic dairy cows. From a
regional perspective, most dairy production activities take place in Western Uganda. Central
Uganda, where Kampala City is located, provides the biggest market for raw liquid milk in the
country. Dairy marketing remains largely informal, with nearly 80 percent of all milk sold as
unprocessed fluid milk (Dobson, 2013; Wong and Kibirige, 2016). However, the formal dairy
industry has substantially grown, especially in response to the demand of urban, educated
consumers for hygienic and high-quality products.

Further still, (Mbowa et al., 2016) indicated that increased milk production will stimulate rural
milk markets and the integration of smallholders into improved value chains, thus improving
producer incomes, which in turn can be used to purchase other foods to satisfy household
nutritional needs (MAAIF, 2015). Observations in Uganda have shown substantial
transformations in livestock husbandry practices, with dairy farms shifting away from free-range
to pad docking, accompanied by reduced herd sizes of improved breeds (Mbowa et al., 2016).

In line with the above, (Kiiza et al, 2016) has also shown that access to market information has a
positive and significant impact on the intensity of adopting improved seed for all crops while

25
adoption of improved seed has a positive and significant effect on farm yields and gross farm
returns. An important prerequisite for creating high quality crops with good growth and high
yield is good seeds, and therefore improved seeds have been developed (www.rootcapital, 2012).
Improved seeds, such as hybrids or treated seeds are designed to adapt to local conditions and
can also be resistant against fungus, pests and different diseases. Therefore, they are less
sensitive to environmental changes and harsh weather conditions.

5.2.2 To find out how technological advice affect agricultural production

The study findings above are in agreement with (Moyo et al. 2015) who indicated that
agricultural technology adoption is the application of mechanical technology and increased
power to agriculture. It involves use of tractors, human powered and animal powered
implements, irrigation systems, food processing and related technologies, new seed varieties and
equipment. Adoption of agricultural technologies can reduce poverty both directly and indirectly
(Becerril & Abdullah, 2010; Moyo et al. 2015). The direct effects include the productivity gains
and low cost of production which can improve income of the adopters while the indirect benefits
from the technology adoption may come in the form of increased supply which may lower food
prices.. Adoption of improved technology has been identified as a key measure towards
achieving food security (Langyintuo et al., 2016).

Relatedly, (Picciotto & Anderson, 2015) noted dissemination of information on elite agricultural
technologies is a key intervention for increased productivity hence improved livelihood.
Effective extension system needs to continuously be updated and fine-tuned by new information
derived from research that is relevant to farmers’ needs. In Uganda, despite 71 % and 43.2% of
farmers demanding for extension services in crop and animal husbandry respectively, only 17%
of crop and 21% of animal farmers were served by the extension services (Muwanika et. al,
2015). Research and adoption of technological improvements are crucial to increasing
agricultural productivity and reducing poverty, while sustaining the agro-ecosystems that support
livelihoods (Kassie et al., 2011; Asfaw et al., 2012)

Study findings are also supported by (Benin et al, 2017) who revealed that during the last decade
the country has witnessed modest increases in agricultural production mainly as result of
increase in production area and to a limited extent, use of improved technology. However, these

26
increases have not resulted into increased profitability of agricultural production and household
incomes. This has been primarily due to low adoption of existing technologies (Benin et al,
2017). In particular, poverty in most developing countries is largely a result of low agricultural
productivity arising from very low utilization of modern inputs and technology

5.2.3 To assess the effect of extension services on agricultural production

Given the increasing scarcity of land, particularly among the poor, future increase and
productivity are unlikely to come from expansion in crops acreage or pastureland, but from
increase in land and pasture productivity through adaptation of improved technologies (Rossetti
& Godfrey, 2003). OWC programme evaluation indicated that improved agricultural
productivity and profitability due adoption of improved technologies introduced under OWC
programme especially for matooke, tubers and pulses- New entries are vanilla, garlic, mangoes
and onions which showed to very high returns and with good regional and world market export
potential (Jens et al. 2005).

The study findings are in agreement with Burton, (2018) who posit that OWC should be
concerned with development and dissemination of new technologies associated with the major
crops and livestock production systems, enhancing the skill and knowledge (human capital)
among all types of farmers and dissemination of information so that they can select most
appropriate mix of crops and livestock enterprises, development, dissemination and use of the
most efficient production management practices aimed at increasing agricultural production
thereby household food security and income and strengthening natural resource management.
Further still, Nederlof & Wennink, (2018) argues that when services are delivered to the users as
a response to their needs, their perception of quality is considered through determining quality is
reported to be subjective and dependent on criteria used by the service users to assess quality.
Some of the criterions for assessing quality of service they referred to were for instance with
equipment, reliability for instance time, responsiveness, competence and courtesy among other
parameters.

In line with the above, Anderson (2016) agreed that adoption of technologies and better practices
is the core of extension interventions. Target farmers in extension need to pass in a certain
process before achieving their ultimate goal of improving productivity. The process includes
awareness, knowledge, adoption of technology or practice and change in farmers’ productivity

27
(FAO 2016). To this end, various extension methods are used, such as extension contacts,
meetings, mass media, demonstrations, etc. In addition to these, there are informal networks
where technologies, knowledge and practices are spread to other farmers. Bringing agricultural
growth has been a main agenda for most sub-Saharan African countries. Investment in extension
services is an important tool for improving agricultural productivity and increasing farmers’
incomes (Anderson 2016).

5.3 Conclusions to the study

The OWC program was initially designed to build the capacity of farmers to form and operate
farmer associations, demand advisory services and adopt improved agricultural technologies and
practices through demonstration of the technologies by model farmers in the community
(MAAIF, 2016). The OWC program formally known as NAADS was set by the act of
parliament as provided in the act, OWC was established to replace the old extension and to spear
head the promotion of market oriented agriculture and to provide for other related and incidental
farming.

The OWC programme increased farmers’ knowledge and skills on management of specific crops
and animals that they put into use. The technological development sites had been established as
learning and technology multiplication centres. Researcher on new crops was done in Nakifuma
Sub County and advisory service to framers improved agricultural productivity.

Findings revealed that crops and animals technologies had been introduced and these had
increased agricultural productivity. Through the OWC programme, framer were able to access
these improved technologies through their farmers groups but on individual basis many farmers
could not afford these technologies making many to stick to the use of traditional seeds and
animals. But many farmers had seen the benefits of cross breeding their local goats with the Boer
or Mubende goats and had taken them to the technological development sites fro mating as they
could not afford the animals. Framer access to information on prices and market had increased
although framers had not used this to increase agricultural production.

5.4 Recommendations to the study

There is need for more mobilization of farmers first to join farmer groups and change farmers’
attitude from subsistence agriculture to commercial agriculture in order to improve on

28
agricultural productivity. OWC programme was intended to work with framers through famer or
producer groups. Although joining farmer group was free, many framers were hesitant to join the
programme perhaps because of lack of knowledge of the benefit of the programme.

OWC should improve its technology promotion to enhance framers’ welfare. This can be
achieved through changing the attitude of farmers towards educating them about improved
methods of farming given that some do not like classroom training and help farmers to raise
funds to implement improved methods of farming.

There is need to involve fully the sub county OWC coordinator in the provision of advisory
service to framers especially in non OWC programme enterprises as advisory service by private
service providers were in specific enterprises.

It should increase farmer access to agricultural knowledge and skills which encourage farmers to
utilize the knowledge and information, sensitization of farmers on advisory services, target more
farmers during provision of advisory services and implement agricultural demonstration farms.

Corrupt leaders especially OWC Coordinators and field extension officers should be penalized
and replaced. This will help avoid frustrations of the OWC program as a result of embezzlement
of funds and abuse of office.

The sub counties and the district should facilitate strategic enterprises and market chain
development for these selected strategic enterprises so that collective marketing can be
encouraged and farmers’ income can be enhanced. The government should design a deliberate
system for making improved technology reach farmers. Credit should be availed to the farmers
for up scaling agricultural inputs.

Households involved in framing should seriously take the advice of the technical teams to
support the programme for their own benefit in improving their livelihood or welfare. The OWC
program was designed for the farmers in order to improve their welfare. Therefore households
should own it and try to deal with all the challenges that affect them in partnership with the local
leaders and policy makers.

Policy makers especially parliament representatives should try to follow up the OWC
programme in conjunction with the evaluation teams to know how the programme is being

29
implemented. They should also try to deal with the problem of corruption whereby it is claimed
that much of the OWC program funds were embezzled when they reached at the sub-county
level which is the level of implementation.

5.5 Areas for further studies

Based on the study findings, these are areas were recommended for further study.

Examine factors affecting implementation of operation wealth creation program

Assess the influence of corruption implementation of operation wealth creation program

30
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Sekaran, U., & Bougie, R. (2016). Research Methods for Business, A Skill Building Approach,
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 APPENDICES
APPENDIX ONE: QUESTIONNAIRS FOR PEASANT FARMERS
SECTION A: INTRODUCTION

Dear Respondent,
I am, Amongin Claire a student of Kyambogo University undertaking a bachelor’s of arts in
economics. I am undertaking a research titled the impact of Operation Wealth Creation (OWC)
on agriculture production in Magoro Sub County, Kumi district. The questionnaire provides a set
of structured questions seeking responses on the topic as provided. Please be as objective as
possible in filling this questionnaire. All responses provided will remain confidential; and will
be used purely for academic purposes.
SECTION B: BACKGROUND INFORMATION (TICK WHERE APPLICABLE)

Gender Tick
Male
Female

Age bracket Tick

20- 25 yrs
25- 30 yrs
30- 35 yrs
Over 35 yrs

Level of Education Tick

No formal schooling
Primary
Secondary
Certificate
Degree +

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 Marital Status Tick

Married
Not married

SECTION C: TO EXAMINE THE EXTENT TO WHICH IMPROVED SEEDS / BREED

AFFECTS AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION IN MAGORO SUB COUNTY, KUMI
DISTRICT

Please fill in appropriately, by ticking to rank the questions provided under each section,
according to the scores provided; (5, 4, 3, 2 and 1)

Statements SA A NS DA SD
5 4 3 2 1
Distribution of quality seeds improves agricultural
production
Distribution of improved live stock improves agricultural
production
Adoption of improved dairy cows could potentially improve
milk yield, which translates into higher production per unit
area or per cow.
Increased milk production will stimulate rural milk markets
and the integration of smallholders into improved value
chains, thus improving producer incomes
Introducing breeding technologies such as cross breeding
will be important for raising dairy productivity
KEY: SA: Strongly Agree, A: Agree, NS: Not sure, D: Disagree, SD: Strongly Disagree

SECTION D: TO FIND OUT HOW TECHNOLOGICAL ADVICE AFFECTS

AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION IN MAGORO SUB COUNTY, KUMI DISTRICT

Statements SA A NS DA SD

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 5 4 3 2 1
Availability of modern technology has enabled farmers
access market information
Market information is availed by government to the farmers
OWC programmes increase households’ access to
information and technology and training
Training of farmers on new technology increases agricultural
production
OWC programmes facilitate quality of advisory services and
promote adoption to new crop livestock enterprise and use of
modern agriculture production technologies
Development in technology creates opportunities, benefits
and efficiency gains for farmers resulting to competitive
utilization of factors of production
KEY: SA: Strongly Agree, A: Agree, NS: Not sure, D: Disagree, SD: Strongly Disagree

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SECTION E: TO ASSESS THE EFFECT OF EXTENSION SERVICES ON
AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION IN MAGORO SUB COUNTY, KUMI DISTRICT

Statements SA A NS DA SD
5 4 3 2 1
Agricultural advisory services are extended to the farmers in
Magoro Sub County, Kumi district
New farming techniques have been taught to the farmers in
Magoro Sub County, Kumi district
The people responsible for extension services are well
trained
Before in puts are given, farmers are educated about their use
Socio economic factors are limiting extension services in
Magoro Sub County, Kumi district
The extension workers from the District interact frequently
with the farmers in Magoro Sub County, Kumi district
The extension services are extended on programme in the
entire district to ensure equal access
KEY: SA: Strongly Agree, A: Agree, NS: Not sure, D: Disagree, SD: Strongly Disagree

Thanks for time and cooperation

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APPENDIX TWO: INTERVIEW GUIDE FOR OWC COORDINATOR AND
EXTENSION WORKERS
1) Comment on the existing agricultural development strategies in Magoro Sub County,
Kumi district?
2) What are the challenges to these strategies in Magoro Sub County, Kumi District?
3) What kind of extension services does farmers in Magoro Sub County, Kumi district?
4) To what extent have these extension services been effective?
5) How best can the government help farmers have easy access to credit in Magoro Sub
County, Kumi district?
6) To what extent has the government availed market information to the farmers?

Thanks for time and cooperation

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