FARMERS QUESTIONAIRE

Hello, my name is ………………………………………………………….. I'm passionate about

understanding and documenting the stories and experiences of farmers like you. I am from Makerere
University Business School (MUBS) and I'm here to listen, learn, and share your valuable insights. My
goal is to shed light on the challenges you face, the innovative solutions you've developed, and the
wisdom you've gained through your farming journey. Together, we can help others appreciate the hard
work and dedication that goes into large-scale maize farming and find ways to support and learn from
each other's experiences. I Was kindly requesting a few minutes of your time.

1. Could you share your journey and motivations behind transitioning to large-scale farming? What
inspired you to pursue maize farming on this scale

2. Have you encountered any challenges related to the quality of your maize produce or faced
rejection by potential buyers? If so, could you describe these experiences and share what buyers
have told you about your maize quality?

3. How have you tackled issues related to moulds and aflatoxins in your maize production? What
strategies or practices have you implemented to ensure the quality and safety of your maize?

4. Tell me your views on the introduction of GMOs or hybrid maize varieties in farming. Have you
personally adopted any of these technologies, and if so, what challenges or benefits have you
experienced about maize farming?
 Probing Questions Farmers.
1. Narrative on Farming Journey:

 Can you elaborate on the specific events or experiences that led you to pursue large-
scale maize farming?
 Were there any role models or mentors who influenced your decision to engage in
large-scale farming?
 Tell me about the initial challenges you faced when transitioning to large-scale farming,
and how did you overcome them?
 How has your farming journey evolved, and what milestones have you achieved?
 How long have you been involved in large-scale farming, and what crops do you
primarily cultivate?
 How much are the expenses that you incur during maize production? (Specify each
activity until the maize is harvested)
 How much together is earned especially if the season is a good one? And also how much
you can probably get when there is a low turn season.
 How did you acquire the land that you used to plant the maize on a large scale?
 How are the land tenure systems in this area or region?
 How you heard of land conflicts in this area? How have these conflicts impacted maize
production in the area?
2. Quality and Market Feedback:

 Can you provide examples of instances where your maize produce was rejected by
buyers or faced quality-related issues?

 How did you react when you received feedback about the quality of your maize, and
what steps did you take to address these concerns?

 Have you made any changes to your farming practices or post-harvest handling to
improve maize quality and market acceptance?

 What do buyers typically look for in terms of quality when purchasing maize from your
farm?

 How do you ensure that your maize meets the quality standards expected by your
buyers?
  How about the emergency of common pests, diseases and weeds affecting the quality of
the maize?

3. Addressing Moulds and Aflatoxins:

 Could you describe the specific measures you have implemented to prevent moulds and
aflatoxins in your maize crops?

 Have you received any training or assistance in managing moulds and aflatoxins, and if
so, how did it impact your practices?

 Can you share any experiences where you had to deal with a mould or aflatoxin
outbreak, and how did you handle it?

 Tell me about the advice you would give to other farmers facing similar challenges with
moulds and aflatoxins.

 How have you managed the post-harvest handling of the maize inclusive of storage?

 In your thinking what could be the cause of aflatoxins in the Ugandan maize as being
read in the news?

4. Views on GMOs and Hybrid Maize:

 Tell me about your decision to adopt or not adopt GMOs or hybrid maize varieties in
your farming.

 Have you observed any differences in yield, pest resistance, or other factors since
incorporating GMOs or hybrids into your maize farming?

 Are there any concerns or reservations you have about using GMOs or hybrid seeds,
such as environmental impact or seed cost?

 In your personal views or opinions on GMO crops, if any? Are you open to incorporating
GMOs into your farming practices?