Abstract
The study was about contribution of banana production on house hold income generation among Smallholder farmers in Kitagata town council, Sheema District. The specific objectives included to; examine the socio-economic characteristics of smallholder banana farmers, establish innovative strategies to improve banana production and income among smallholder banana farmers and identify the factors affecting banana production and income among smallholder banana farmers. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey that applied both quantitative and qualitative approaches for data collection. Data was captured from a sample of 302 respondents using both questionnaire and interviews. Data was analyzed using SPSS software version 22.0 to generate both descriptive and inferential statistics. The study concluded that there were socio-economic characteristics of farmers which also affected banana production. Such characteristics included; age, marital status, level of education land size and gender. The study also concluded that there were innovative strategies to improve banana production and income among smallholder banana farmers in Kitagata town council, Sheema district. These included; Integrated Pest Management, use of hybrid varieties, Irrigation, mulching, climate-Smart Agriculture through use of drought resistant varieties, agro-forestry, use of fertilizer application and organic manure to replenish soil fertility. The study finally concluded that there were factors affecting banana production and income among smallholder banana farmers. Such as; access to extension and advisory services which had a significant effect on production and smallholder farmer’s income at (p=.004), access to financial services was a strong predictor of production improvement and farmer’s income at (p=.002), a positive and a significant relationship were observed between availability of quality farm inputs and banana production (at p=.023), The study further discovered that ready market was a strong predictor of production and small holder farmer’s income at (p=.003) and Lastly, a positive and a significant relationship were observed between banana varieties grown and banana production as well as income at (p=.005). The study recommends that the government, NGOs, Ministry of Agriculture, Animal, Industry and Fisheries in collaboration be established with the aim of implementing innovative agricultural strategies geared towards banana productivity increments, there is also a need for the government to provide enough facilities to extension agents that will help them facilitate enhanced training to farmers and inform them of new techniques in farming, there is a need for the government to provide some production inputs at subsidized cost.
Keywords
Banana Production, Income Generation, Smallholder Farmers, Sheema District
1. Introduction
Bananas are one of the most popular fruits globally, with a long history of cultivation and consumption
| [1] | Addis, Zelalem. 2019. “Organic Fertilizers Use and Application for Cereal Crop Production in Ethiopia.” Journal of Natural Sciences Research 9(10): 14–25. |
| [2] | Smith, D., & Brown, E. (2019). "Factors Influencing Access to Extension Services in Banana Production: A Case Study from Kenya." Agricultural Development Journal, 22(1), 45-56. |
[1, 2]
. The cultivation of bananas has deep historical roots, dating back thousands of years in regions like Southeast Asia
| [9] | Biazin, Birhanu, Geert Sterk, & Temesgen, A 2012. “Rainwater Harvesting and Management in Rainfed Agricultural Systems in Sub-Saharan Africa – A Review.” Physics and Chemistry of the Earth, Parts A/B/C 47–48: 139–51. |
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. However, the modern commercial production of bananas began to take shape in the late 19
th and early 20
th centuries, particularly in tropical regions with suitable climates
| [3] | Babu, Suresh Chandra, Jikun Huang, P. P. Venkatesh, and Yumei Zhang. 2015. “A Comparative Analysis of Agricultural Research and Extension Reforms in China and India.” China Agricultural Economic Review 7(4): 541–72. |
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.
Banana production has a rich historical background, and its significance in household income generation among smallholder farmers has evolved over time
| [19] | Gereffi, G. 2014. Bananas in Kenya: Accounting for Selection Bias and the Role of Complementary Inputs.” Journal of Agricultural Economics 63(2): 444–64. |
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Historically, bananas have been cultivated for thousands of years, with evidence of their cultivation dating back to ancient civilizations in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands
| [2] | Smith, D., & Brown, E. (2019). "Factors Influencing Access to Extension Services in Banana Production: A Case Study from Kenya." Agricultural Development Journal, 22(1), 45-56. |
[2]
.
In Africa, bananas are cultivated in diverse agro-ecological zones, ranging from humid tropical regions to semi-arid areas. Smallholder farmers typically dominate banana production, utilizing traditional farming methods alongside some modern techniques
| [6] | Bekunda, M. A., E. Nkonya, D. Mugendi, and J. J. Msaky. 2022. “Soil Fertility Status, Management, and Research in East Africa Soil Fertility Status, Management, and Research in East Africa.” East African Journal of Rural Development 20(1): 94–112. |
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. Bananas serve as both a staple food crop and a cash crop, with their importance varying by region and local preferences, where it serves as a vital source of nutrition and income for millions of smallholder farmers
| [4] | Bandiera, Oriana, and Imran Rasul. 2006. “Social Networks and Technology Adoption in Northern Mozambique.” Economic Journal 116(514): 869–902. |
[4]
. The contribution of banana production to household income is influenced by various factors, including agro-ecological conditions, socio-economic dynamics, market access, and agricultural practices
| [4] | Bandiera, Oriana, and Imran Rasul. 2006. “Social Networks and Technology Adoption in Northern Mozambique.” Economic Journal 116(514): 869–902. |
| [5] | Bano. Z, Rajarathnam. S, Steinkraus. K, 2019. Pleurotus mushrooms. Part II. Chemical composition, nutritional value, post-harvest physiology, preservation, and role as human food. Critical Review in Food Science and Nutrition, [online] 27(2, 1988). |
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.
In Uganda, bananas play a crucial role in smallholder farming systems, contributing significantly to household income and food security
| [8] | Bergh, I. Van Den, J. Ramirez, C. Staver, D. Turner, A. Jarvis, and D. Brown. 2010. “Climate Change in the Subtropics : The Impacts of Projected Averages and Variability on Banana Productivity.” International Center for Tropical Agriculture 928(5): 89–99. |
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. Smallholder farmers rely on banana cultivation for income generation, sustenance, and employment opportunities for family members and laborers. For example, in Sheema District, located in the western region of Uganda, banana farming is a vital economic activity for smallholder farmers. Bananas are a major cash crop in Sheema District, contributing significantly to household income and food security. Smallholder farmers in this district rely on banana cultivation as a primary source of livelihood, with the sale of bananas providing income to support their families' needs
| [17] | FAO. 2017. “Productivity and Efficiency Measurement in Agriculture.” (February): 77. |
[17]
. Bananas are a staple food crop in Sheema District, providing both food and income for households. Smallholder farmers cultivate bananas on their plots of land, often in mixed cropping systems with other crops such as beans and maize
| [15] | Fahad, Shah, Ali A. Bajwa, Usman Nazir, Shakeel A. Anjum, 2017. “Crop Production under Drought and Heat Stress: Plant Responses and Management Options.” Frontiers in Plant Science 8(June): 1–16. |
| [17] | FAO. 2017. “Productivity and Efficiency Measurement in Agriculture.” (February): 77. |
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.
2. Problem Statement
In an ideal scenario, smallholder farmers in Sheema District have access to resources, knowledge, and infrastructure that optimize banana production. They benefit from efficient market access, minimal post-harvest losses, and supportive policies that ensure fair prices for their produce
| [15] | Fahad, Shah, Ali A. Bajwa, Usman Nazir, Shakeel A. Anjum, 2017. “Crop Production under Drought and Heat Stress: Plant Responses and Management Options.” Frontiers in Plant Science 8(June): 1–16. |
[15]
. This ideal situation results in increased household income, improved living standards, and enhanced food security for farmers and their families
| [10] | Blazy, Jean Marc, Marc Dorel, Frédéric & Salmon, 2019. “Model-Based Assessment of Technological Innovation in Banana Cropping Systems Contextualized by Farm Types in Guadeloupe.” European Journal of Agronomy 31(1): 10–19. |
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.
Currently, smallholder farmers in Sheema District encounter challenges such as limited market access, pests and diseases affecting banana yields, inadequate infrastructure for transportation and storage, and fluctuating market prices. These realities constrain their ability to maximize income from banana production and negatively impact their livelihoods
| [17] | FAO. 2017. “Productivity and Efficiency Measurement in Agriculture.” (February): 77. |
[17]
.
Through targeted interventions and research, the expected outcome is to address the challenges faced by smallholder banana farmers in Sheema District. By improving market access, implementing pest management strategies, enhancing infrastructure, and providing support for value addition initiatives, farmers can increase their income from banana production
| [16] | Fandika, I, W and Tennyson Magombo. 2014. “Banana Irrigation Management and Optimization: A Comparative Study of Researcher-Managed and Farmer Managed Irrigated Banana Production in Shire Valley, Malawi.” African Journal of Agricultural Research 9: 2687–93. |
| [17] | FAO. 2017. “Productivity and Efficiency Measurement in Agriculture.” (February): 77. |
[16, 17]
. This would lead to improved household income, enhanced food security, and economic empowerment for smallholder farmers and their communities.
Despite existing research on banana production in Sheema District, there remains a research gap in understanding the specific mechanisms to optimize household income from banana farming
| [17] | FAO. 2017. “Productivity and Efficiency Measurement in Agriculture.” (February): 77. |
[17]
Further research is needed to explore innovative solutions tailored to the local context, address emerging challenges, and identify opportunities for value addition and market diversification. Besides banana being on-demand in Kitagata Town council, there are gaps in data gathered on innovative strategies of improving banana production commonly used by farmers, factors affecting production and their influence on income generation. This has prompted the researcher to carry out a study on the contribution of banana production on income generation among smallholder farmers in Kitagata town council, Sheema district to fill this research gap.
3. Research Objectives
The general objective of the study was to assess the contribution of banana production to household income among smallholder farmers in Kitagata town council, Sheema District. The specific objectives were to; examine the socio-economic characteristics of smallholder banana farmers, explore innovative strategies to improve banana production and income among smallholder banana farmers and identify the factors affecting banana production and income among smallholder banana farmers.
4. Significance of the Study
To farmers; the findings of the study will directly benefit banana farmers in Sheema District by identifying the key challenges they face and proposing practical solutions to improve their livelihoods. Understanding the factors affecting household income from banana farming will enable farmers to make informed decisions regarding banana crop management, market engagement, and investment in value addition activities
| [11] | Brian, S. 2011. BANANA: African Organic Agriculture Training Manual A Resource Manual for Trainers. |
[11]
.
To development partners; the study's insights will contribute to the overall socio-economic development of the community in Sheema District by strengthening the agricultural sector, which is a major source of livelihood for many residents. Development partners and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) working in the area of agriculture and rural development can use the study's findings to design and implement more effective programs and initiatives that address the specific needs of banana farmers in the district.
To policy makers; Policy makers at the local, regional, and national levels can use the evidence-based recommendations from the study to formulate policies and strategies that support banana production and enhance household income in Sheema District. The study may influence policy decisions related to agricultural extension services, market infrastructure development, access to credit, and value addition initiatives, thereby fostering a more conducive environment for banana farming and rural development
| [9] | Biazin, Birhanu, Geert Sterk, & Temesgen, A 2012. “Rainwater Harvesting and Management in Rainfed Agricultural Systems in Sub-Saharan Africa – A Review.” Physics and Chemistry of the Earth, Parts A/B/C 47–48: 139–51. |
| [11] | Brian, S. 2011. BANANA: African Organic Agriculture Training Manual A Resource Manual for Trainers. |
[9, 11]
.
To scholars; The study will contribute to the existing body of knowledge on banana production and household income in Uganda, particularly in the context of Sheema District. Scholars and future researchers can build upon the study's findings and methodologies to conduct further research on related topics, such as the impact of climate change on banana farming, gender dynamics in agricultural livelihoods, or the role of agricultural cooperatives in enhancing farmers' income.
5. Conceptual Frame Work
The conceptual framework based on a systems model as specified by Ludwig Von (2011) which provides an analytical framework for development interventions. It was based on a three factor model shown in the diagram below: consisting of a) banana production as the independent variable; b) income generation as dependent variable and c) the intervening variables.
Figure 1. Conceptual frame work.
6. Materials and Methods
The study will be carried out in Kitagata Town council located, Sheema district, South Western Uganda.
The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional survey to assess relationship between pre-harvest and harvest management practices and banana quality. The design was commonly used to gather information about a particular phenomenon or variable of interest from individuals within a population or sample at a specific moment. This design was used for the study because it was useful in securing evidence concerning an existing situation as well as identifying standards and norms with which to compare present conditions in order to plan the next step.
The population of this study comprised of all women and men involved in banana farming activities, local leaders and agricultural service providers at town council level. Farmers gave original innovative production strategies and how they contributed towards household income and food security. Local leaders and service providers provided addition information required including official statistics about banana production management and how farmers had trained to use innovative production strategies and how to identify some factors limiting banana production.
The sample size was determined using Cochran formula (1963) taking into account of a confidence level of 95% and 5% margin of error.
no is the sample size, Z2 is the area under the acceptance region in a normal distribution (1– α), e is the preferred level of precision/marginal error, p is the estimated proportion of an attribute that is present in the population, and q is 1-p
=384
A combination of proportionate stratified sampling and random sampling techniques were used to choose the households from different ward found in Kitagata Town council. Ward was divided into strata’s and respondents were selected from the using simple random sampling technique. This technique was used to select the respondents from a list of farmers at ward level to come up with the required number of respondents. The researcher applied random numbers to pick farmers from each ward and consider them as respondents. On the other hand, purposive sampling involved the selection of key informants who were interviewed from their places of work using face to face interviews.
Interview guides were commonly used to collect qualitative information from key informants. By providing a framework for the interview, it helped to minimize bias and ensured that all participants were asked the same questions, allowing for more reliable data collection and analysis. The study targeted respondents who had unique insights on the research topic for example extension agents and community stakeholders.
The questionnaires were also used and began with open-ended questions to allow respondents to provide detailed quantitative information about banana production. These open-ended questions enabled researcher to gather rich, in-depth insights into the specific practices employed by banana farmers.
The collected data was analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively; Qualitative data was analyzed using thematic content analysis where the researcher wrote the responses from respondents, conceptualize the data, segment the data basing on the study objectives. Quantitative data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). version 23.0. Descriptive statistics measures such as frequency distribution and percentages were used to analyze continuous and nominal data at Univariate level. Inferential statistics were applied to generate and interpret any significant associations between dependent and independent variables at both bivariate and multivariate level.
7. Study Results
The results are presented in tables and diagrams. The analyzed data was arranged under themes that reflected the research objectives. The demographic information of the farmers, descriptive statistics of the findings and regression analysis as well as a summary of the chapter is provided
The results indicated the majority of farmers as 70% were male while 30% were female.
Figure 2. Gender of respondents.. Gender of respondents.
The study findings indicated that majority were aged 41-50 as this was reported by 46%. Followed by 30% of farmers who were aged below 31-40, 16.5% were aged above 50, 6.5% were aged 21-30 and the youngest being less than 20 years
Figure 3. Age of respondents.
Figure 4. Level of education.
The study findings in
figure 4 indicate that 3% of the farmers had no formal education at all, 50% had attained primary education, 40% had secondary education and 7% had gone through post-secondary.
The study results revealed that majority of the respondents constituting to 83% were married, followed by 13% were single, 3% were divorced and 1% widow.
Figure 5. Marital status.
The study sought to ascertain the acres of land under banana production. According to the study, 12% of the respondents said that the area under banana cultivation in the farms is between 0.1 to 0.3acres, 18% between 0.4 to 0.75 acres 69% between 1 to 3 acres, and 1% above 4 acres respectively.
Table 1. Acres under Banana production.
Response | Frequency | Percentage (%) | Cumulative Percent |
0.1 to 0.3acres | 35 | 12 | 12 |
0.4 to 0.75 acres | 56 | 18 | 30 |
1 to 3 acres | 210 | 69 | 99 |
4 and above | 01 | 01 | 100 |
Total | 302 | 100 | |
Source: Field data, 2024
Table 2. Model Summary for Soil Management Strategies.
Model Summary |
Model | R | R Square | Adjusted R Square | Standard error of the estimate |
1 | .660a | 0.434 | 0.423 | 0.78454 |
Predictors; mulching, use of fertilizers, organic manure use, intercropping, agro-forestry |
Dependent variable: banana production |
The R which is the coefficient of correlation, 66% shows there is a strong relationship between the dependent and independent variables. 43.4% of the individual independent variables can be used to predict the yield per acre hence they are good predictors of the model. From the results obtained, the adjusted R square is 42.3% which means that the proportion of the dependent variable explained by the independent variables combined in the regression equation is 42.4%.
Table 3. ANOVA Results for Soil Management Strategies.
ANOVAa |
Model | Sum of squares | df | Mean square | F | Sig. |
1 | Regression | 139.506 | 6 | 23.267 | 37.792 | .000b |
Residual | 181.002 | 294 | 0.615 | | |
Total | 320.508 | 300 | | | |
a. Dependent variable |
From the table the model is statistically significant at 5% level of significance, (F = 37.7, p < 0.05). Based on the regression results, soil management strategies were statistically significant influencing banana production.
Table 4. Coefficients of Soil Management Strategies (Independent Variables).
Model | Unstandardized coefficients | Standardized coefficients | t | Sig. |
B | Standard error | Beta |
1 | Constant | 9.546 | 0.443 | | 21.563 | 0.000 |
Agroforestry | -0.542 | 0.466 | -.076 | -0.62 | 0.246 |
Precision nutrient management | 0.844 | 0.301 | .134 | 2.804 | 0.05 |
Fertilizer use | 0.377 | 0.133 | .132 | 2.845 | 0.05 |
Organic manure use | 0.469 | 0.165 | .146 | 2.808 | 0.05 |
Soil amendments for disease management | -0.256 | 0.325 | -.068 | -0.793 | 0.428 |
Dependent variable; banana production |
Based on the regression results, soil management strategies statistically significant affecting banana production. Precision nutrient management had a positive significant effect (t =2.804, p value < 0.05) on banana production. A unit increase in utilizing soil testing and nutrient mapping technologies would help farmers accurately assess soil nutrient levels and apply fertilizers precisely where they are needed. Use of fertilizer had a positive and significant influence on banana production as given by (β = 0.377, t = 2.845, p<0.05). The implication of these findings was that a unit increase in use of fertilizer would lead to increased banana production by 37.7%. Use of organic manure had a positive and a significant influence on banana production as given by (β = 0.469, t = 2.808, p<0.05).
Agroforestry and Soil amendments for disease management did not show positive significance as expected.
Respondents during survey were asked irrigation methods they use to improve production, responses were captured, analysed and presented in
figure 6;
Majority 63% of the respondents do not use any form of irrigation, they are dependent on rainwater, followed by 29% respondents revealed use of drag horse method of irrigation, 4% revealed use of pump water from water sources, followed by 3% who revealed use of horse pipe and 1% use sprinkler irrigation.
Figure 6. Methods of irrigation used by farmers.
Table 5. Model Summary for Water Management Strategies.
Model Summary |
Model | R | R Square | Adjusted R Square | Standard error of the estimate |
1 | .685a | 0.469 | 0 0.454 | 0.7627 |
Predictors; methods of irrigation |
Dependent variable: banana production |
The R which is the coefficient of correlation, 68.5% shows there is a strong relationship between the dependent and independent variables. The coefficient of determination shows that 46.9% of the individual independent variables can be used to predict the yield per acre hence they are good predictors of the model. The adjusted R square is 45.4% which means that the proportion of the dependent variable explained by the independent variables combined in the regression equation is 45.4%.
Table 6. Coefficients of Water Management Strategies (Independent Variables).
Model | Unstandardized coefficients | Standardized coefficients | t | Sig. |
B | Standard error | Beta |
1 | Constant | 6.791 | 0.068 | | 99.944 | 0.000 |
Dependent on rain water | 1.410 | 0.107 | .206 | 13.167 | 0.002 |
Drag horse | 1.198 | 0.202 | .139 | 25.916 | 0.001 |
Horse pipe | 0.575 | 0.544 | .127 | 1.057 | 0.29 |
Pump water from water sources | 2.310 | 0.230 | .131 | 3.920 | 0.005 |
Sprinkler | 0.181 | 0.263 | .117 | 0.686 | 0.493 |
Dependent variable; banana production |
Based on the regression results, water management strategies statistically significant affecting banana production. Dependency on rain water had a positive and significant effect (β = 1.410, t =13.167, p value < 0.002) on banana production. Use of drag horse had a positive and significant effect on banana production by 1.1 chance as given by (β = 1.198, t = 25.916, p=0.001). Use of pumping water from the water source had a positive and significant influence on banana production as given by (β = 2.310, t = 9.632, p<0.05).
Table 7. Sources of banana cultivars (multiple responses generated).
Response | Frequency | Percentage (%) | Cumulative Percent |
Recycle from the farm | 100 | 25 | 25 |
From fellow farmers | 210 | 53 | 78 |
From authorized agricultural institutions | 15 | 04 | 82 |
Operation wealth creation | 68 | 18 | 100 |
Total | 393 | 100 | |
Source: Field data, 2024
The
table 7 shows that a very small percentage of the respondents get their banana seedlings from authorized agricultural institutions (4%), followed by 18% who gets from the government through Operation wealth creation, followed by 25% who recycle from their own farms and majority constituting to 53% get from fellow farmers.
Table 8. Coefficients of Banana Management Strategies.
Model | Unstandardized coefficients | Standardized coefficients | t | Sig. |
B | Standard error | Beta |
1 | Constant | 32.540 | 3.935 | | 8.269 | .000 |
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) | 4.292 | 1.885 | .176 | 2.277 | .001 |
Mulching | 3.047 | 1.012 | .134 | 2.046 | .003 |
Use of hybrid varieties | 1.260 | 3.096 | .132 | .997 | .005 |
Irrigation | 2.931 | 1.746 | .146 | 1.533 | .004 |
Climate-Smart Agriculture | -1.588 | 1.875 | -.058 | -.851 | .396 |
Dependent variable; banana production |
Based on the regression results, banana management strategies statistically significant affecting banana production. Use of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) had a positive and significant effect (β = 4.292, t =2.277, p value= 0.001) on banana production. Use of mulching had a positive and significant effect on banana production by 3 chances as given by (β = 3.047, t = 2.046, p=0.003). Use of hybrid varieties had a positive and significant influence on banana production as given by (β = 1.260, t =.997, p=.005). Use of irrigation had a positive and significant influence on banana production as given by (β = 2.931, t =.146, p=.004).
Table 9. Regression output between factors affecting banana production and income.
Model | Unstandardized Coefficients | Standardized Coefficients | t | Sig. |
B | Std. Error | Beta |
1 | (Constant) | 7977.381 | 217038.607 | | 6.361 | .000 |
Access to extension and advisory services | 5577.638 | 2901.520 | .151 | 2.923 | .004* |
Access to financial services | 7963.031 | 2571.941 | .214 | 3.097 | .002* |
Size of the land | -4592.418 | 2749.321 | -.123 | -1.670 | .096 |
Land ownership | 1673.124 | 3143.252 | .037 | .532 | .595 |
Availability of farm inputs | 6071.260 | 2651.615 | .158 | 2.290 | .023* |
Ready market | 9635.799 | 3075.170 | .227 | -1.418 | .003* |
Banana varieties grown | 2722.320 | 2648.326 | .078 | 1.028 | .005* |
Low prices | 4239.388 | 2989.105 | -.102 | 3.133 | .159 |
Results in
table 9 above indicated that out of the eight (8) hypothesized factors indicators, only five (5) had a significant effect on banana production and income. The analysis in
table 9 above indicated that access to extension and advisory services had a positive significant effect on production and smallholder farmer’s income at 5% level of significance. The coefficient β = 5577.638 significant at p=.004
Access to financial services was a strong predictor of production improvement and farmer’s income at 5% level of significance. An observed coefficient β = 7963.031, significant at p=.002. Furthermore, a positive and a significant relationship were observed between availability of quality farm inputs and banana production as well as smallholder farmer’s income at 5% level of significance. A coefficient (β = 6071.260 at p=.023). The study further discovered that ready market for ready produced bananas was a strong predictor of small holder farmer’s income at 5% level of significance. A positive and significant coefficient (β =9635.799 at p=.003). Lastly, a positive and a significant relationship were observed between banana varieties grown and banana production as well as income at 5% level of significance. A coefficient (β = 2722.320 at p=.005).
8. Discussion of Results
The study findings established that a big percentage of the farmers use 1 to 2.5 acres of land. This can be an indication that most of them practice mixed farming for survival based on the land size. This can be compared withBellamyet al.,
| [7] | Bellamy, Angelina Sanderson. 2013a. Banana Production Systems : Identification of Alternative Systems for More Sustainable Production. Bellamy, Angelina Sanderson. 2013b. “Banana Production Systems: Identification of Alternative Systems for More Sustainable Production.” Ambio 42(3): 334–43. |
[7]
who reported that larger land areas can accommodate more banana plants, leading to higher overall production. This scale can translate to economies of scale, reducing per-unit costs and increasing total output. The same authors said that with more land, farmers can experiment with different banana varieties, which can diversify income sources and potentially lead to higher profits through niche markets.
The study revealed that marital status is a major determinant in improving banana production and income. They further explained that this gives them zeal to work hard to improve production and become income secure to meet basic family needs. This finding agrees with Burneyet al.,
| [12] | Burney, Jennifer A., Rosamond L. Naylor, and Sandra L. Postel. 2013. “The Case for Distributed Irrigation as a Development Priority in Sub-Saharan Africa.” Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America 110(31): 12513–17. |
| [11] | Brian, S. 2011. BANANA: African Organic Agriculture Training Manual A Resource Manual for Trainers. |
[12, 11]
who said that married farmers often have access to more family labor, as spouses and children can contribute to farm activities. This can increase the overall labor force, improving productivity and efficiency on the farm. The author further revealed that different family members might specialize in certain tasks. For instance, men might handle heavy fieldwork while women manage marketing and sales, leading to a more efficient division of labor.
The study results revealed that use of organic manure had a positive and a significant influence on banana production at 5% level of significance. This finding agrees with Cooper et al.,
| [13] | Cooper, Donald R., and &. Pamela S. Schindler. 2016. “Business Research Methods, McGrawHill/Irwin New York., Eleventh Edition.” McGraw Hill 1–745. |
[13]
Organic manure provides essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are crucial for banana plant growth. Unlike synthetic fertilizers, organic manure releases nutrients slowly, ensuring a steady supply over time. The author further revealed that organic manure enhances microbial activity in the soil, promoting the decomposition of organic matter and the release of nutrients in forms readily available to plants.
The study results revealed that mulching had a positive and significant effect on banana production at 5% level of significance. This can be compared with Fagerberg et al.,
| [14] | Fagerberg, Jan, Morten Fosaas, and Koson Sapprasert. 2017. “Erratum to Innovation: Exploring the Knowledge Base; Research Policy (2012) 41(7) (1132–1153) (S0048733312000698).” Research Policy 46(8): 1531. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.Respol.2012.03.008 |
[14]
Mulch suppresses weed growth by blocking sunlight from reaching the soil surface. Fewer weeds mean less competition for nutrients and water, allowing banana plants to grow more vigorously. With fewer weeds, farmers spend less time and resources on weeding, allowing them to focus on other productive tasks.
The study results indicated that access to extension and advisory services had a positive significant effect on production and farmer’s income at 5% level of significance. This is consistent with Kabungaet al.,
| [18] | Kabunga, Nassul S., Thomas Dubois, and Matin Qaim. 2012. “Yield Effects of Tissue Culture. |
[18]
who revealed that extension services educate farmers on best practices for banana cultivation, including planting techniques, spacing, pruning, irrigation, and pest and disease management. This knowledge helps farmers optimize their production processes and maximize yields. Extension agents advise farmers on soil fertility management, including soil testing, nutrient supplementation, and organic matter incorporation. Proper soil management ensures optimal growing conditions for banana plants, leading to healthier crops and improved productivity.
The study results established that access to financial services was a strong predictor of production improvement and farmer’s income at 5% level of significance. This is in line with Kamira et al.,
| [20] | Kamira, M., J. Ntamwira, C. & Sivirihauma, W. 2016. “African Journal of Agricultural Research Agronomic Performance of Local and Introduced Plantains, Dessert, Cooking and Beer Bananas (Musa Spp.) across Different Altitude and Soil Conditions in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.” 11(43): 4313–32. |
[20]
who reported that financial support enables farmers to invest in farm infrastructure such as irrigation systems, drainage facilities, and storage units. Improved infrastructure enhances farm efficiency, productivity, and resilience to environmental risks, leading to higher yields and better income.
9. Conclusion
The study concluded that there were socio-economic characteristics of farmers which also affected banana production. Such characteristics included; age, marital status, level of education land size and gender and among others.
The study also concluded that there were innovative strategies to improve banana production and income among smallholder banana farmers in Kitagata town council, Sheema district. These included; Integrated Pest Management (IPM), use of hybrid varieties, Irrigation, mulching, climate-Smart Agriculture through use of drought resistant varieties, agro-forestry, use of fertilizer application and organic manure to replenish soil fertility.
The study finally concluded that there were factors affecting banana production and income among smallholder banana farmers. Such as; access to extension and advisory services which had a significant effect on production and smallholder farmer’s income at (p=.004), access to financial services was a strong predictor of production improvement and farmer’s income at (p=.002), a positive and a significant relationship were observed between availability of quality farm inputs and banana production (at p=.023), The study further discovered that ready market was a strong predictor of production and small holder farmer’s income at (p=.003) and Lastly, a positive and a significant relationship were observed between banana varieties grown and banana production as well as income at (p=.005).
10. Study Recommendation
There is a need to promote climate-smart agricultural practices that enhance farmers' resilience to climate change and variability. These practices include water-saving technologies, drought-tolerant crops, agro forestry, and soil conservation measures, which help mitigate production risks and safeguard farmers' livelihoods.
There is a need to recruit more extension agents to educate farmers about crop insurance schemes and risk management strategies to protect their investments and income from production-related risks, such as crop failure, pest outbreaks, and adverse weather events.
There is a need for the government to provide some production inputs at subsidized cost for example irrigation equipments, fertilizers, improved banana plantlets, water harvesting equipments. This will help farmers increase their banana production and ensure sustainable income, food production throughout the year for both local consumption and export.
There is a need for the majority of banana farmers to adopt drag hose irrigation method which was recently initiated and implemented by the government to avoid seasonal production and ensure sustainable production throughout the year to secure their income.
Acknowledgments
The successful completion of this research work owes much from individuals who contributed in one way or another. Heartfelt thanks should go to Sheema district authorities for allowing the researcher to carry out study in their area. Earnest gratitude goes to my research supervisors; Dr. Rebecca Kalibwani and Rev. Nuwemuhwezi Gershom for having spared their adequate time for me right away from the start of this research to the end, your work will always never be underrated.
Abbreviations
NGOs | Non-Governmental Organizations |
IPM | Integrated Pest Management |
FAO | Food Agriculture Organization |
Conflicts of Interest
The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
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APA Style
Mugume, A., Kalibwani, R., Nuwemuhwezi, G. (2024). Contribution of Banana Production on Household Income Generation Among Smallholder Farmers in Kitagata Town Council, Sheema District. Journal of Food and Nutrition Sciences, 12(4), 169-179. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jfns.20241204.11
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Mugume, A.; Kalibwani, R.; Nuwemuhwezi, G. Contribution of Banana Production on Household Income Generation Among Smallholder Farmers in Kitagata Town Council, Sheema District. J. Food Nutr. Sci. 2024, 12(4), 169-179. doi: 10.11648/j.jfns.20241204.11
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AMA Style
Mugume A, Kalibwani R, Nuwemuhwezi G. Contribution of Banana Production on Household Income Generation Among Smallholder Farmers in Kitagata Town Council, Sheema District. J Food Nutr Sci. 2024;12(4):169-179. doi: 10.11648/j.jfns.20241204.11
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@article{10.11648/j.jfns.20241204.11,
author = {Abel Mugume and Rebecca Kalibwani and Gershom Nuwemuhwezi},
title = {Contribution of Banana Production on Household Income Generation Among Smallholder Farmers in Kitagata Town Council, Sheema District
},
journal = {Journal of Food and Nutrition Sciences},
volume = {12},
number = {4},
pages = {169-179},
doi = {10.11648/j.jfns.20241204.11},
url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jfns.20241204.11},
eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.jfns.20241204.11},
abstract = {The study was about contribution of banana production on house hold income generation among Smallholder farmers in Kitagata town council, Sheema District. The specific objectives included to; examine the socio-economic characteristics of smallholder banana farmers, establish innovative strategies to improve banana production and income among smallholder banana farmers and identify the factors affecting banana production and income among smallholder banana farmers. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey that applied both quantitative and qualitative approaches for data collection. Data was captured from a sample of 302 respondents using both questionnaire and interviews. Data was analyzed using SPSS software version 22.0 to generate both descriptive and inferential statistics. The study concluded that there were socio-economic characteristics of farmers which also affected banana production. Such characteristics included; age, marital status, level of education land size and gender. The study also concluded that there were innovative strategies to improve banana production and income among smallholder banana farmers in Kitagata town council, Sheema district. These included; Integrated Pest Management, use of hybrid varieties, Irrigation, mulching, climate-Smart Agriculture through use of drought resistant varieties, agro-forestry, use of fertilizer application and organic manure to replenish soil fertility. The study finally concluded that there were factors affecting banana production and income among smallholder banana farmers. Such as; access to extension and advisory services which had a significant effect on production and smallholder farmer’s income at (p=.004), access to financial services was a strong predictor of production improvement and farmer’s income at (p=.002), a positive and a significant relationship were observed between availability of quality farm inputs and banana production (at p=.023), The study further discovered that ready market was a strong predictor of production and small holder farmer’s income at (p=.003) and Lastly, a positive and a significant relationship were observed between banana varieties grown and banana production as well as income at (p=.005). The study recommends that the government, NGOs, Ministry of Agriculture, Animal, Industry and Fisheries in collaboration be established with the aim of implementing innovative agricultural strategies geared towards banana productivity increments, there is also a need for the government to provide enough facilities to extension agents that will help them facilitate enhanced training to farmers and inform them of new techniques in farming, there is a need for the government to provide some production inputs at subsidized cost.
},
year = {2024}
}
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TY - JOUR
T1 - Contribution of Banana Production on Household Income Generation Among Smallholder Farmers in Kitagata Town Council, Sheema District
AU - Abel Mugume
AU - Rebecca Kalibwani
AU - Gershom Nuwemuhwezi
Y1 - 2024/07/15
PY - 2024
N1 - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jfns.20241204.11
DO - 10.11648/j.jfns.20241204.11
T2 - Journal of Food and Nutrition Sciences
JF - Journal of Food and Nutrition Sciences
JO - Journal of Food and Nutrition Sciences
SP - 169
EP - 179
PB - Science Publishing Group
SN - 2330-7293
UR - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jfns.20241204.11
AB - The study was about contribution of banana production on house hold income generation among Smallholder farmers in Kitagata town council, Sheema District. The specific objectives included to; examine the socio-economic characteristics of smallholder banana farmers, establish innovative strategies to improve banana production and income among smallholder banana farmers and identify the factors affecting banana production and income among smallholder banana farmers. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey that applied both quantitative and qualitative approaches for data collection. Data was captured from a sample of 302 respondents using both questionnaire and interviews. Data was analyzed using SPSS software version 22.0 to generate both descriptive and inferential statistics. The study concluded that there were socio-economic characteristics of farmers which also affected banana production. Such characteristics included; age, marital status, level of education land size and gender. The study also concluded that there were innovative strategies to improve banana production and income among smallholder banana farmers in Kitagata town council, Sheema district. These included; Integrated Pest Management, use of hybrid varieties, Irrigation, mulching, climate-Smart Agriculture through use of drought resistant varieties, agro-forestry, use of fertilizer application and organic manure to replenish soil fertility. The study finally concluded that there were factors affecting banana production and income among smallholder banana farmers. Such as; access to extension and advisory services which had a significant effect on production and smallholder farmer’s income at (p=.004), access to financial services was a strong predictor of production improvement and farmer’s income at (p=.002), a positive and a significant relationship were observed between availability of quality farm inputs and banana production (at p=.023), The study further discovered that ready market was a strong predictor of production and small holder farmer’s income at (p=.003) and Lastly, a positive and a significant relationship were observed between banana varieties grown and banana production as well as income at (p=.005). The study recommends that the government, NGOs, Ministry of Agriculture, Animal, Industry and Fisheries in collaboration be established with the aim of implementing innovative agricultural strategies geared towards banana productivity increments, there is also a need for the government to provide enough facilities to extension agents that will help them facilitate enhanced training to farmers and inform them of new techniques in farming, there is a need for the government to provide some production inputs at subsidized cost.
VL - 12
IS - 4
ER -
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