Faculty of Agriculture

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Farmers' and agricultural advisers' perceptions on the role of education in sweet potato (ipomoea batatas l.) production in Teso, Uganda
(Egerton University (unpublished work), 2003-08) Epeju, William . F;
Poor husbandry, low use of improved inputs and limited access to technical advice are likely to be related to a farmer's education. Forty-six percent of Teso farmers are literate, but the literacy rate of men (66%) is higher than of women (34%). The study investigated the role of education in sweet potato production. Using an ex post facto research design, 24 out of 51 sub-counties were randomly selected based on district county strata and used to determine the perceptions of sweet potato farmers and their agricultural advisers. Through interviews, observations and questionnaires, the survey covered 288 farmers and 33 agricultural advisers, while 329 community leaders and fanners were engaged in focus group discussions. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected and analysed qualitatively using open and axial coding; and quantitatively using means, frequencies, percentages, t-test, ANOVA, and multiple regression at a confidence level of 0.05 alpha. Six sweet potato productivity indicators (output per ha, output per person, output per shilling spent, income per ha, income per person, and income per shilling spent) and their levels were established. Indigenous technical knowledge was the chief source of the farmers' knowledge and skills used in growing sweet potatoes. Farmers with 1-4 years of primary schooling excelled in output per person, output per shilling and income per shilling. Farmers with 13-18 years of formal education and those who had contact with agricultural extension excelled in output per ha, income per ha and income per person. Primary schooling, secondary and college training facilitated in crop production and business management while agricultural extension and university facilitated better soil management. Farmers without formal education achieved lower productivity. Therefore, stakeholders should invest more in relevant farmers' education.
The potential of ensiled browse/maize forage mixtures of calljandra, gljricidia and leucaena for dairy cattle feeding
(Kyambogo University [ Unpublished work], 2005-03) Kato, Habib
The potential of ensiled browse/maize fodder mixtures of Callianc/ra calothyrsus, Gliricidia sepium or Leucaena leucocephala for dairy cattle feeding was assessed in five experiments. Experiment 1 examined the fermentation characteristics, and the effect of fermentation on the chemical composition and rumen degradation of the browses and maize silage. Maize silage fermented best with higher (P $ 0.05) levels of lactic acid (4.98% DM) and lower (P $ 0.05) pH values compared to browse silages. The level of NH3-N (% Total N) was higher (P $ 0.05), in maize silage than in browse silages. Degradation of dry matter, organic matter and nitrogen was highest with Gliricidia followed by maize, Leucaena and Calliandra was least degraded. Fermentation increased rumen microbial protein synthesis with Gliricidia, Leucaena and maize forage but not with Calliandra. Experiment 2 assessed the fermentation characteristics, chemical composition and rumen degradation of ensiled browse/maize fodder mixtures in proportions of 0 to 50% browse (DM basis). Butyric acid and lactic acid levels and pH were low at all levels of browse addition. The levels of NH3-N were lower (P $ 0.05) with browse addition levels above 10% indicating less proteolysis with higher levels of browse addition. Maximum degradation of OM, OM and N occurred at 10 - 20% levels of browse addition. Estimated RMP synthesis consistently decreased with higher levels of Calliandra and Leucaena addition to the silage, but increased with higher levels of Gliricidia addition.
Farmers' personal characteristics in assuring agricultural productivity: lessons from sweet potato farmers in Teso, Uganda
(Journal of Food, Agriculture & Environment, 2010) Epeju, W. F.
Farmers constantly require incentives to stay in production. This paper discusses findings on farmers' personal characteristics salient in production among sweet potato farmers from the study done in Teso, Uganda. Both farmers and agricultural advisers consulted agreed that the weather is a big factor in agricultural production. Over 91% of the farmers expressed positive attitudes towards growing sweet potatoes which spelt their interest in farming. Conditions under which farmers worked affected enterprise productivity. Key elements in the farmers' work environment in Teso included basic factors in agricultural production, essential needs, accelerating needs, health, rights and readiness to work. The assuring farmers' personal characteristics on sweet potato productivity in Teso were: farmer's income, marital status, age, years of school agriculture done, and exposure to agricultural extension. The income sources at any one period varied by farmer. The exposure to agricultural extension was significantly related statistically to two productivity indicators of income per ha and income per person. On formal education, 96% of the farmers surveyed had attained primary education, which was found significant in their work. Farmer's age was significantly related statistically to the productivity indicator of income per hectare. There was gender division of labour. Gender is significant in sweet potato production in Teso. Majority of farmers had more than 45 years of farming which was significant experience. Therefore, based on the study, the farmers' personal characteristics found significant on agricultural productivity among the farmers are: income level, exposure to agricultural extension, years of school agriculture done (educational level) which determined the farmers' knowledge of what to do, marital status, farmer's age, gender and farming experience such as years in growing sweet potatoes.
Soil moisture dynamics under different tillage practices in cassava–sorghum based cropping systems in eastern Uganda
(Elsevier: Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology, 2013) Mulebeke, Robert; Kironchi, Geoffrey; Tenywa, Moses M.
Soil moisture storage in the root zone determines availability of water in crop production, but there is limited attention on water resource management in cassava–sorghum production systems. Soil moisture content was higher under ripping than mouldboard ploughing. Mouldboard ploughed plots had more moisture in the upper (0–10 cm) layer while, the ripped plots accumulated more moisture in the lower (20–40 cm) root zone. Soil surface roughness was stable two months after ploughing. Crop combinations and seasons influenced soil moisture storage over the growing period. The different cropping systems vary in their soil moisture extraction capacities at different growth stages, hence influencing the overall moisture storage and water used in the root zone.
Agriculture training in farm institutes and the labour market requirements in uganda.
(Kyambogo University [unpublished work], 2013-10) Tumwesigye, Rogers
Agriculture training is intended to prepare trainees to meet the agriculture labour market requirements. In Uganda training is done at farm institutes, college and university levels. This study assessed Agriculture Training in Government Farm institutes and whether the training meets the Labour market requirements in Agricultural sector of Uganda. The agricultural training methods used in farm institutes were identified; the training methods employed and how they prepared trainees to meet the labour market requirements were determined. The attitude of agriculture trainees and graduates from farm institutes towards their trade were established. A descriptive study design was used employing both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Farm institute graduates, trainees, instructors and institute administrators were used for the study. Interviews, observation and document analysis were used to collect. Snow ball, systematic and stratified random sampling techniques were used to select the respondents. Findings indicated that the lecture method was dominant over practical methods and had limited consideration for agriculture labour market. As a result, trainees and graduates were not equipped with the skills and attitudes needed in Labour market to a large extent which led graduates to face challenges on their first time of employment during practical tasks. Hence there is need for instructors to train professionally and renew their teaching methods so as to make teaching more practical and use appropriate teaching methods that can enrich the trainees with hands on experience. In addition, farm institutes' laboratories need to be well resourced and curriculum made flexible to include contemporary and emerging issues from time to time. Farm institutes' graduates' who retrained had more positive attitudes' towards manual work and remained in the trade. Therefore Uganda Government through the Ministries of Education and Sports and the Ministry of Agriculture Animal Industry and Fisheries should put more emphasis on practical training if positive attitudes are to be developed in the citizenry.
Agricultural extension service training in Uganda and delivery competence acquisition.
(Kyambogo University [unpublished work], 2013-11) Nanono, Kiwanuka Milly
Agriculture training in Agricultural Institutions has a bearing on the quality of the competences needed for appropriate agricultural service delivery. However, knowledge, skills and attitudes for agricultural service delivery still remain a challenge in farming communities to cater for the vast and dynamic agricultural needs. The study investigated how the content of the crop production curriculum taught at Agricultural Institutions supported service delivery competence requirements, assessed the extent to which teaching and learning methods enhanced competence acquisition and determined the relevance of the training given to Agricultural Extension Workers to the competence requirements. A descriptive study design was adopted employing a qualitative approach. Respondents were students, lecturers, farmers and agricultural institutions administrators. Responses were also collected from extension workers, the district Production and Marketing Officers, the Agricultural Officer and NAADS coordinators at the District. Interviews, observation and documentary analysis aided the process of data collection. Data analysis was done qualitatively by so1ting, editing, and coding of the findings. It was found out that the content of the crop production curricula supported acquisition of the required knowledge, skills and attitudes for service delivery to a limited extent. The teaching and learning methods enhanced acquisition of the required crop production knowledge, skills and attitudes for extension service delivery to a limited extent. The methods included: lectures, team teaching, research discussions and Information technology: projects, demonstrations, outreach programs, industrial training, study tours and exhibitions. The teaching and learning methods were influenced by the expertise of lecturers/instructors, time allocation and the availability of tools, equipment and materials. While the training of the extension workers would be relevant to the service delivery competence requirements, it provided limited crop production knowledge, skills and attitudes. To cater for the mismatch, it was recommended that; relevant course content of the crop production curricula such as crop agronomy, pest and disease control, soil and water conservation, agricultural extension methods should be maintained. More time need to be accorded to the practical component; teaching and learning methods should be modified and integrated; tools, equipment and materials be availed; the lecturers and instructors should be provided with pedagogical skills of teaching; the training should be integrated with training students at agricultural research centers, farmers' farms and at other agricultural related fields such as agro-based industries, agro-processors and agro-input providers
Soil organic carbon and nitrogen decomposition in fecal manure of cattle fed browse/maize silages
(Sustainable Agriculture Research, 2014) Kato, , Habib; Mulebeke, Robert; Bareeba, Felix Budara; Sabiiti, Elly Nyambobo
Soil organic carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) decomposition in fecal manure of cattle fed browses of Calliandra (Calliandra calothyrsus), Gliricidia (Gliricidia sepium) and Leucaena (Leucaena leucocephala) browse/maize silage mixtures and maize (Zea mays) silage alone when applied to the soil were investigated in a pot experiment in comparison to the corresponding silages fed. Maize silage alone had the lowest N and a larger C: N ratio, making it a poor quality compost when applied to the soil, but compared to the browse/maize silage mixtures it had the highest level of soluble N as non-protein nitrogen (NPN) which makes much of its N available for soil microbial decomposition of its organic C. Calliandra browse/maize silage mixture had the highest level of fiber-bound N (ADFN), which reduces N availability for soil microbial decomposition of its organic C in spite of its high N content and a narrower C: N ratio. Fecal manure from maize silage alone had a lower level of N and a wider C: N ratio than fecal manure from the other silages fed which would affect its decomposition in the soil, but it had the lowest level of ADFN and much of its N is made available for soil microbial decomposition of its organic C. Soil samples after 12 weeks of the experiment showed that Calliandra browse/maize silage mixture maintained the highest level of C in the soil, while maize silage alone maintained the lowest level. Also soils treated with fecal manure from the other browse/maize silage mixtures maintained higher levels of C than fecal manure from maize silage alone. Organic C levels were lowest at 8 weeks of the experiment for all treatments and rose to the original levels at 12 weeks which could have been as a result of biotic and hydrologic factors coupled with soil aggregation. Decomposition of organic N followed a similar trend as organic C. The two elements are linked in both plant inputs in the soil and in the eventual soil humic substances. The soils treated with browse/maize silage mixtures maintained C: N ratios that were similar to that of the control soil and higher than those of the fecal manure treatments. Thus, in spite of the added silage materials to the soil, rapid decomposition of organic C could not occur to reflect benefits of adding the silage materials to the soil. Thus, fecal manure, particularly from feeding animals on browse/forage diets is more beneficial in the soil as it would decompose more readily releasing the plant nutrients they contain.
Farmers’ knowledge on the sweetpotato cultivars grown in the Teso sub-region, Uganda
(Research in Agriculture & Applied Economics: Sustainable Agriculture Research., 2014) William Faustine, Epeju
The farmers’ knowledge of the cultivars to use in increasing sweetpotato productivity is critically important. A study was carried out in the Teso Sub-region to investigate the role of education in sweet potato production. Using an ex post facto design, 24 out of 51 sub-counties were purposively selected applying district-county strata and used to determine the perceptions of sweetpotato farmers and of their agricultural advisers. Through interviews, observations and questionnaires, the survey covered 288 farmers randomly selected and a whole population of 33 agricultural advisers, while 329 community leaders purposively selected and farmers randomly selected were engaged in focus group discussions. A total of 650 persons participated. Data were collected on farmers’ knowledge of sweetpotato cultivars grown capturing selected attributes. Analysis of data was done qualitatively using open and axial coding and quantitatively using means, frequencies, percentages, ANOVA and multiple regressions at a confidence level of 0.05 (?). Using selected attributes, farmers identified 139 cultivars grown. The best performing cultivar was Araka yielding a range of 19,001-29,000 kg/ha but was susceptible to the sweetpotato weevil and drought. Araka also stores poorly as dried chips or sliced. The least performing cultivars were Elany ikokolak, Epaku & Ocaka amani with yields below 5,000 kg/ha but less susceptible. Commercialising the crop with value addition, farmers need up-scaling of their scientific knowledge of cultivars and production as basis for better multiplification & selection of vines for higher yields needed in processing the crop for its several uses.
Knowledge and innovations for farmers from teaching agriculture in Ugandan primary schools: a study of Kumi communities in the Teso sub-region
(Research in Agriculture & Applied Economics., 2016) Epeju, W. Faustine
Kumi communities consist of Bukedea, Kumi and Ngora districts whose agriculture is increasingly complex with declining productivity because of population increase, climate change, low yielding technologies used & poor market access impacting negatively on yields and environment. More knowledge & innovations are needed by farmers. Teaching agriculture in primary schools raised hopes, hence the study. The design was exploratory. In-depth interviews, focus group discussions, questionnaires, documents and observations were used to collect data from 40 primary schools randomly selected. Of 2,069 respondents, 1,951 were head teachers, teachers and primary seven students & 118 were farmers including extension workers purposively selected. Qualitative data were analysed using open coding & axial coding based on objectives and research questions. Agricultural productivity and its growth rate were found low caused by many factors. Education quality and innovations attained by farmers were not assuring for successful farming and rural living. Primary school agriculture was poorly conducted encountering implementation problems such as limited land, no funds, unfavourable weather and lack of improved inputs. Forty five percent (45%) of the students preferred farming as an occupation. The key innovations attained were literacy and numeracy important in the use of improved inputs; knowledge and skills for several farm operations including environmental management and good family living. On ranking school completion rates and farm output of 16 sub-counties, Spearman Rank Order coefficient computed was positive (r = 0.421 with r2 = 0.1772, 18% at 0.05 α). Increased farm output was explained by 18% through completed primary education by farmers. Smallholder farms in Kumi for years may only be run commercially through intelligent and differentiated policies, addressing market access, jobs in non-farm economy and social transfers to improve welfare of the poor. Primary school agriculture through innovations attained by farmers enhances production thus the need for more investment in it.
Morphological identification and in vitro efficacy of fungicides in control of phytophthora causing pineapple heart rot disease in Uganda
(Kyambogo University (un published work), 2016-12) Ocwa, Akasairi,
Pineapple (Ananas comosus L. Merr) production in Uganda is being constrained by a diversity of factors including pineapple heart rot disease (PHRD). Information on PHRD causal pathogen is limited. Also, management options are clear. The objectives of this study were, therefore, to identify the casual pathogens causing PHRD and assess the in vitro reaction of the causal pathogens to fungicides. Pathogen isolation was done using amended corn meal agar. Macro and micro-morphological characteristics of the isolates were assessed. Pathogenicity of the isolates was tested using healthy pineapple plants based on Koch's postulate. In vitro reaction was determined using I 0% V8 media amended with 0.1 g/L Metalaxyl, 0.1 g/L Victory 72 powder, 0.01 g/Land 0.001 g/L Metalaxyl, 0.01 g/L and 0.001 g/L Fosetyl Al and unamended V8 media as a control. There was a significant difference (P<0.05) in the growth rates, hyphae diameter and asexual structure dimensions of the isolates. Isolates were characterized by a dense rosette and stoloniferous mycelial growth pattern in PDA media. Sporangia were non-caduceus. terminal, papillate and mostly ovoid, obpyriform and limoniform sporangia (32-56μm) with a mean length/breadth ratio of 1.32: I μm . Chlamydospores were spherical and thick-walled (25- 42μm diameter). Sporangiophore branching was sympodial. All the isolates were sensitive to Metalaxyl and Victory 72 powder treatment. Based on the morphological characteristics of isolates, it was concluded that Phytophthora nicotianae is the species associated with PHRD in central Uganda. Additionally, Metalaxyl was the most effective chemical against the pathogen in vitro. Molecular characterization of the pathogen is recommended to confirm the identity of the species. It is also recommended that the efficacy of fungicides which have shown effectiveness be assessed further under field conditions.
Yield loss and resistance to pineapple heart rot disease on pineapple cultivars in central Uganda
(Kyambogo University (un published work), 2017-12) Oculi, jasper
Pineapple (Ananas comosus (L.) Merr) is of tremendous importance as a fruit crop in Uganda. However, production in Uganda is currently threatened by outbreaks of pineapple heart rot disease (PHRD). PHRD is the most widespread and devastating disease of pineapple in Uganda and can cause tremendous yield loss. Although, some preliminary information exists on PHRD in Uganda, the yield loss attributed to the disease has not quantified neither is there any information on sources of resistance. The objective of this study was, therefore, to determine yield loss and resistance to pineapple heart rot disease in central Uganda. In order to address these objectives, five cultivars of pineapple were planted in the screen house and in the field in a completely randomized design (CRD) and randomized complete block design (RCBD), respectively. Treatments on yield loss assessment consisted of protected plot, un-protected plot and control plot respectively. Pineapple plants in the protected plots had their suckers dipped for three minutes in a solution of Metalaxyl (Active Ingredients: methoxyacetyl)-N-(2, 6-xylyl)-DLalaninate 8%) before planting and later sprayed with a solution of Fosetyl Al (Active Ingredients: Aluminum trees 80%) using a backpack sprayer with Hardir flat spray nozzles three weeks after planting. Pineapple plants in the un-protected plots were not treated with any fungicide. The suckers were inoculated with 108m1 of zoospores using needle-mediated leaf base wound technique. Treatments on resistance consisted of five cultivars of pineapple (Smooth Cayenne, Victoria, Sasilimu, MD-2 hybrid and Red Spanish) Planted in a field with a history of PHRD infestation. Results from the screen house study indicated100% yield loss in all five cultivars after two months. Field experiments indicate that all the five cultivars used were susceptible to PHRD although Smooth cayenne showed moderate resistance to PHRD. Additional studies, therefore, need to be conducted using more pineapple cultivars to establish their suitability as genetic material in breeding for resistance against PHRD and to minimize yield loss.
Molecular identification and pathogenicity of phytophthora species causing pineapple heart rot disease in Uganda
(Kyambogo University (un published work), 2017-12) Okello, Charles
Pineapple (Ananas cosmosus L.Merrill) has enormous potential for nutritional and health benefits, foreign exchange earnings, industrial growth and development in Uganda. The production of this crop is on the decline, because of outbreak of the pineapple heart rot disease. Therefore the objective of this study was to determine the molecular identity and pathogenicity of the phtophthora causal organism of pineapple heart rot disease. Four major pineapple growing districts in Central Uganda were surveyed for disease prevalence and samples collected for laboratory isolation and characterization between April-May 2016. Twenty one (2 1) sampies of phytophthora heart rot pathogen were isolated from diseased pineapple tissues. Pathogenicity of the pineapple heart rot causal organisms was assessed on invitro pineapple leaves and green apple fruits in laboratory following koch'spostulate. Internal transcribed spacer regions (ITSI, 5.8s !TSUrDNAs, from I I isolates of phy10phthora were analysed by polymerase chain reaction amplification and direct sequencing. The analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) showed a significant genetic diversity within population (PhiPT= -O.Q68, P= 0.001). Intraspecific variability was detected. The genetic diversity of the population was measured by building phylogeneies based on these sequenced rDNA-ITS data using Muiltiple sequence alignment tool. The results of the pathogenicity test showed that 100% of the isolates were pathogenic apple fruits and healthy pineapple leaves with varying levels of virulence. Based on molecular identification, the sequence of amplified PCR products of DNA fragment of 850bp confined that the causal organism of pineapple heart rot disease was Pnicotianae. AMOVA indicated the variability within populations was (100%). These results also suggest that Pnicotianae has considerable evolutionary potential, which enable it to adapt to the new environment and overcome management strategies over
Food security and income through sweet potato production in Teso, Uganda
(Research in Agriculture & Applied Economics., 2018) Epeju, William Faustine; Rukundo, Peter Milton
Two relevant studies on food security are referred to in the article. Food insecurity from time to time threatens in Teso sub region which houses a viable Teso agricultural system. One study was done during 2001-2003 in Teso on sweet potato production with 650 persons participating and the second one was done in one disaster affected area of Bududa District nearby during 2012-2016 when 1,142 persons participated. Kiryandongo District where Bududa landslide survivors were resettled in Uganda was included in that study. Participatory methods such as focus group discussions, farm observations, in-depth interviews, and questionnaires were used. Both studies used qualitative and quantitative methods for data analysis. The sweet potato stands second after cassava as the crop for famine and disaster periods in Teso to meet the human right to adequate food to complement the well dried cereals & grain legumes that stored longer. Livestock especially was also one of the prime determinants of food security and income in Teso. Free from cyanides with a good content of affordable Vitamin A from orange fleshed varieties, sweet potatoes in Teso contributed about 61% to the yearly food per capita of the population thus a recommendable crop for sustainable food security and some income in Teso and beyond.
Farmers' knowledge of and attitudes towards the use of inorganic fertilizers for Irish potato (Solanum tuberosum) production in Kabale district, Uganda
(Kyambogo University [unpublished work], 2018-07) Rusagura, Joseph
Irish potato (Solanum tuberosum) is the fourth most significant food crop in the world after rice, maize and wheat. However, Irish potato production in Uganda is low with an average yield of 3 tonnes ha-1 without fertilizer use. This is ascribed to high soil nutrient mining coupled with low inorganic fertilizer use. In Kabale District, for example, farmers apply low rates (41.5kg-67.2kg/ha) compared to the recommended application rate of 120kg - 2 l 5kg/ha. There are a number of reasons for the low inorganic fertilizer use, including farmers' knowledge and attitudes. Therefore, the study assessed the farmers' knowledge and attitudes towards the use of inorganic fertilizer for Irish potato production in Kabale District. The target population comprised 363 farmers randomly selected, and 3 Agricultural officers with 4 suppliers of fertilizers purposively selected providing a sample size of 370 respondents. In testing the instruments, validity was found as 0.91 and reliability was found as 0.81. Validity and reliability coefficients were higher than 0.7, Cronbach Alpha which means that the instruments used were valid and reliable. A cross sectional survey design involving interviews and structured questionnaires was used. The results show that majority of respondents (60 .6%) use inorganic fertilizers. NPK is the most commonly used inorganic fertilizer. In terms of quantity, nearly one half (49%) of respondents applied 50kgs/ha while 65 .8% reported lack of sufficient technical knowledge in the use of inorganic fertilizer. The results revealed that there is a positive relationship between three knowledge variables and Irish potato yield as shown respectively (0.868, 0.684, 0.890, p-value<0.01). The results also show that farmers' attitudes were significantly positive to the use of inorganic fertilizers (r=0.417, p<0.05). The socio-economic variables examined were found to influence positively both knowledge and attitudes of the farmers in the use of fertilizers. Based on these results, it was concluded that farmers in Kabale used low fertilizer application rates and lacked sufficient knowledge but the attitudes were positive towards the use of inorganic fertilizer application needed to achieve high yields. It is, therefore, recommended that more sensitization and provision of technical services on inorganic fertilizer use be done and that the Government of Uganda should develop a mechanism for improving the accessibility of inorganic fertilizers by the farmers.
Response of common bean genotypes grown in soil with normal or limited moisture, with special reference to the nutrient phosphorus
(MDPI : Agronomy, 2018-07-30) Namugwanya, Margaret; Tenywa, John Stephen; Otabbong, Erasmus
Drought and phosphorus deficiency in the soil are the major production limitations of common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study measured the yield responses of low phosphorus-tolerant common beans to drought stress. A field experiment was conducted under two drought conditions codenamed, non-drought-stress (NDS) and drought-stress (DS). The former was located at Mukono Zonal Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MUZARDI) in Mukono District, characterised by rainfall of more than 400 mm season−1. The latter was situated at Wabinyonyi in Nakasongola District, characterised by less than 300 mm season−1; both in central Uganda. Treatments included the two study conditions (NDS and DS); and four test bean genotypes, AFR703-1, AFR 708, JESCA, and MCM 2001, against a local check, K131. A water deficit of 156 mm season−1 was observed in the DS site causing a drought intensity index (DII) of 40%. That pattern contrasted considerably in the NDS site where the actual rainfall did not significantly (p > 0.05) vary from the required water by the bean plant. Whereas genotypes AFR703-1 and AFR708 out-yielded the local check in NDS by 213 and 681 kg ha−1, respectively; their grain yield harvested was comparable to the control yield in DS. When grown under DS, low P-tolerant beans, especially the AFR703-1 and AFR708, survived drought stress through faster development by reducing the number of days to flower, reach physiological maturity and develop seeds. AFR703-1 and AFR708 sufficiently withstand drought stress, and are therefore recommended for inclusion in cropping systems that are characteristically constrained by the combined soils’ P deficiency and/or drought.
An atoxigenic L-strain of Aspergillus flavus (Eurotiales: Trichocomaceae) is pathogenic to the coffee twig borer, Xylosandrus compactus (Coleoptera: Curculionidea: Scolytinae)
(Environmental Microbiology Reports, 2018-10-11) Mukasa, Yosia; Kyamanywa, Samuel; Sserumaga, Julius P.; Otim, Michael; Tumuhaise, Venansio; Erbaugh, Mark; Egonyu, James P.
This study isolated and evaluated virulence of fungal entomopathogens of Xylosandrus compactus – an important pest of Robusta coffee in Sub-Saharan Africa. A survey was conducted in five farming systems in Uganda to isolate entomopathogens associated with X. compactus. Four fungal isolates were screened for virulence against X. compactus in the laboratory at 1 × 107 conidia ml−1 where an atoxigenic L-strain of A. flavus killed 70%–100% of all stages of X. compactus compared with other unidentified isolates which caused 20%–70% mortalities. The time taken by A. flavus to kill 50% of X. compactus eggs, larvae, pupae and adults in the laboratory was 2–3 days; whereas the other unidentified fungal isolates took 4–7 days. The concentrations of A. flavus that killed 50% of different stages of X. compactus were 5 × 105, 12 × 105, 17 × 105 and 30 × 105 conidia ml−1 for larvae, eggs, pupae and adults respectively. A formulation of A. flavus in oil caused higher mortalities of X. compactus larvae, pupae and adults in the field (71%–79%) than its formulation in water (33%–47%). The atoxigenic strain of A. flavus could therefore be developed into a safe biopesticide against X. compactus.
Adoption of cattle manure for banana production by farmers in Mbarara district, Uganda
(Kyambogo University [unpublished work], 2018-11) Namara, Hope
Bananas are the main staple food crop grown in Mbarara District but production is threatened by Mbarara's declining soil fertility. Cattle manure has a potential of improving soil fertility as it is available and affordable through the good supply from the high cattle population of the area compared to scarce & costly inorganic fertilizers. In addressing the problem, the aim was to find out the rate of cattle manure adoption for increasing banana yields. A sample size of 226 respondents was used for the study consisting of 214 banana farmers randomly selected and 12 change agents deployed in the area taken whole. The four sub counties used were selected through stratified sampling picking the best performing in banana production. Data was collected using interview guides, questionnaires, and focus group discussion guides. Statistical package for social scientists Version 21 .0 was used to compute frequencies, percentages, means and r values. Qualitative data from interviews and focused group discussions was analyzed through open coding according to themes. The findings revealed that 77% of the banana farmers regularly applied cattle manure with more than half (50%) of them applying it with kitchen refuse. The study also revealed a relationship between farmers ' socio-economic characteristics and cattle manure adoption by farmers which was largely determined by farmer's age, education level, marital status, income source and sex of the farmer. Additionally, others were perceived benefits of cattle manure, distance to the road for ferrying manure and produce, desire to improve soil fertility and land ownership. Using Pearson r values, the results further revealed that cattle manure adoption had a relationship at 0.05 alpha with banana bunch size in kg (r=.632*) and with yield in kg ha.1(r=.740*). The associations of cattle manure adoption with socio-economic characteristics gave further r values as age (r=.914*), education level (r=.878*), and distance to the road for ferrying manure and produce (r= .906*). The study concluded that 77% of the banana farmers regularly applied cattle manure. Based on qualitative data and r values, cattle manure adoption by farmers was influenced by key factors such as age, education level, marital status, income source, and distance to the road for ferrying manure/produce. Adoption of cattle manure was certainly an advantage in increasing banana yields. The study recommends more collective efforts by relevant agencies supported by the government in training the fanners to adopt more use of cattle manure.
Effectiveness of group extension methods in promoting high quality cassava flour production among smallholder farmers in Apac district, Uganda
(Kyambogo university (unpublished work), 2018-11) Gobo, Denis
Smallholder farmers of Apac District received advice from extension agents on the production of high quality cassava flour from 2009 to 2015. Despite training, production remained low at 4000kg ha·1 compared to the expected output of 8000kg ha· 1 , which called for an investigation conceived to establish the effectiveness of the group extension methods used in training for high output. A cross sectional survey design was used. Interviews, questionnaires, observations and focused group discussions were used to collect data from a total of 133 respondents consisting of 126 farmers randomly selected from 185 farmers trained. Additionally, seven extension agents completed questionnaires and were interviewed. Using SPSS version 16.0, the data collected was processed to determine frequencies, percentages, cross tabulations and chi-square test. Results show 64% of the famers participated in demonstrations, 73% in field days and 75% in exchange visits. Cross tabulations showed that demonstrations benefited 59% of the farmers in using clean water for processing; field days benefited 65% of the farmers in practicing timely harvesting and exchange visits benefited only 19% in using recommended varieties at planting. The framers whose flour was rejected at sale were: 20% for lack of follow up after training, 14% for reduced training hours and 13% for high speed content delivery. Chi-square showed significant association at O.Ola between farmers participation in demonstrations and knowledge in site selection for cassava production. Most farmers acquired more knowledge from group demonstrations, followed by field days and exchange visits respectively. Methods were effective in practices such as site selection, timely harvesting, use of clean water but not effective in post-harvest handling. Trainers of farmers should keep group size to 6 while combining methods for chipping and post-harvest handling. Time duration and frequency of training should be optimum farmers to produce high quality cassava flour.
Yield response of newly released cassava genotypes and hybrid maize to intercropping and inorganic fertilizers in Uganda
(Kyambogo University (un published work), 2019-02) Ekwaro, Benson
This study determined the effect of intercropping the newly developed cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) genotypes with hybrid maize (Longe 6H) and NPK fertilizer appljcation on the growth and yield of the component crops. The specific objectives were to determine the effect of maize planting density in the cassava/maize inter crop on the growth and yield of the component crops, and to determine the effect of NPK fertilizer on the growth and yield of the newly released cassava genotypes. In experiment one, two newly released cassava genotypes NAROCASS 1 and NASE 14 inter cropped with Longe 6H maize were evaluated in different combinations including sole maize (SM), sole cassava (SC), one row of maize and cassava ( 1C:1 M), and two rows of maize and cassava (1C:2M). Inter cropping significantly influenced maize plant heights; cob length, the number of rows per cob and the maize grain weight when compared with sole cropping. The cob length and the number of rows per cob decreased in the order SM> 1C:1 M> l C:2M indicating that as the plant population density increases, the cob length and the number of rows per cob gradually decrease. In both NAROCASS I /Maize and NASE 14 /Maize intercrops, maize grain yield under the low plant density (1C:1 M) was comparable to sole cropping than those at the higher plant density (1 C:2M). Thus indicating that increasing maize plant population density (I C:2M) significantly reduced grain yields compared to grain yields at low plant population density (lC:lM). Similarly, cassava root yield decrease in the same order (SM> 1C:1M>1 C:2M) indicating that increased in population gradually reduced root yield. The land equivalent ratio (LER) values for intercrops were greater than one, indicating yield advantage of intercropping over sole cropping. In experiment two, the effects of NPK fertilizer on the growth and yield of the newly released cassava genotypes were assessed at three levels of 200, 400 and 600 kg/ha. Fertilizer application up to 400 kg/ha significantly (P<0.05) influenced the cassava root length, fresh
The role of the smallholder farmer groups on production, processing and marketing of maize: a case study of Hoima district, Uganda
(Kyambogo University, 2019-07) Kasemire, Shamim
Maize farmers in Hoima District have formed groups to overcome the challenges of low production, processing and marketing of maize due to lack of adequate extension support, inadequacy of transport facilities, limited access to inputs and output market. However, studies have shown that even when the farmers form groups, the challenges that farmers face as individuals continue to be experienced in their farmer groups. The challenges listed if left unaddressed, have the potential of causing more decline in maize productivity, incomes and consequently food insecurity. To come up with improved status of maize productivity and marketing among the members of the farmer groups, the study examined the role of farmer groups in production, processing and marketing of maize in Hoima District. The major objective was to examine the role of the participating members and further to establish the challenges faced so that strategies for better performance are suggested. Specifically, the study set out to find out the roles of smallholder farmer groups in production, processing and marketing of maize; identify the factors that enable smallholder farmer groups to improve the marketing of maize produce; and identify the challenges faced by smallholder farmer groups in a bid to uplift output, food security and incomes. A cross sectional survey design was adopted. Data were collected from the members of 4 selected farmer groups, Hoima District Farmers‘ Association and Hoima District Local Government Production and Marketing Officials giving a sample size of 140 respondents. The respondents were selected using simple random and purposive sampling techniques. Questionnaires, interview guide, Observation Guide, Focus Group Discussion guide and Documentary review checklist were used to collect data from the study sites. Qualitative data were presented using narrative text and verbatim quotations. The study findings indicated that to a great extent, the farmer groups have boosted the productivity of maize among farmers. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (percentages and means); inferential statistics were correlation and chi-square tests. Majority of the farmers agreed that their group maize production increased per season to 2 metric tonnes from 1 tonne per individual farmer. Chi- square result shown in Table 4.8 obtained was =19.379 df= 2, p=.000, meaning that there was a significant relationship between membership in farmer‘s group and improved marketing of maize produced. Table 4.5 shows that the correlation coefficient for group factors and maize yield was r= .643* p=0.012<0.05 meaning that there was a positive correlation between farmer group factors and maize yields The group factors that were behind the boost included joint planning, access to better markets because of collective bargaining power, adoption of better and improved maize varieties such as the latest Longe 11 and collaborative relationships with international donor agencies such as Abi-Trust and United States Agency for International Development. These have not only boosted farmer skills through training but have also linked the farmer groups to potential markets. It was also found out the success registered by the farmers was in accessing better markets, improved production and indirect benefits from networking with international organizations. Nevertheless, there were a series of structural and group-based challenges such as poor leadership hampering the effective performance of the farmers groups. The study concluded that farmer groups have boosted maize production in Hoima District. The study recommended the need for provision of extension services to all the farmer groups; need by the government to upgrade the feeder roads in rural areas; and the need for the government to engage monitoring committees at the District and sub county levels to protect the farmers from being cheated by seed dealers and others.

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