Determinants of Farmers’ Decisions to Adopt Adaptation Technologies in Eastern Uganda
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Date
2014
Authors
Shisanya, C.A.
Wambugu, Stephen K.
Kansiime, Monica K.
Journal Title
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Volume Title
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Abstract
Using the Heckman sample selectivity model, this study identified farmers’ perception and adaptation to climate
variability in Eastern Uganda, in order to support development of public policy and investment that can help
increase adaptation to climate variability. The study was based on the premise that farmers who perceive change
in climate and respond (or fail respond) share some common characteristics, which are important in
understanding the reasons underlying their response (or failure to respond). Stratified random sampling was used
to obtain a sample of 353 households across the three agro-ecological zones in Eastern Uganda, from which data
was collected. In addition, 9 focus group discussions and 23 Key Informants Interviews were conducted,
targeting smallholder farmers and agricultural stakeholders in the region. Results indicate that farmers’ decisions
to adopt adaptation technologies are primarily determined by their perceptions of rainfall adequacy (subjective
index). The probability of adoption of adaptation technologies by male headed households and those with more
members showed a 12% and 23% higher chance of adaptation respectively as compared to their counterparts.
These factors relate to labour endowment, implying the need to build strong social protection mechanisms at
household and community levels. The probability of responding to climate variability also varied by location
with a 15% and 6% smaller chance for location in Mbale and Sironko respectively as compared to Pallisa.
Access to weather information is the single most important factor affecting farmers’ perceptions of climate
variability, implying the need to develop and dissemination appropriate weather information to guide farmers in
making adaptation decisions.
Description
Journal article
Keywords
Eastern Uganda, Climate Variability, Adaptation
Citation
Journal of Economics and Sustainable Development Vol.5, No.3, 2014