Determinants and implications of land management practices for maize yield in eastern Uganda

Abstract

Soil degradation threatens maize farming sustainability in eastern Uganda, necessitating effective land management practices. Despite prior research, the socio-economic factors influencing land management remain underexplored. This study investigated sustainable land management practices to boost soil productivity, mitigate land degradation, and improve maize yields in the Kyoga basin. Data were gathered from 379 households through interviews and focus groups, focusing on the adoption of practices like fertilizer application, pesticide use, and tillage conservation. The study analyzed adoption factors such as education, land ownership, access to inputs, and crop yields, alongside the impact of organic and inorganic fertilizer use on maize production. Descriptive statistics summarized the prevalence of different practices, while Chi-square tests and ANOVA compared practices and yields between the Kyoga plains and highland agro-ecological zones (AEZs). Logistic regression identified significant adoption factors. Results showed regional differences (P<0.05), with the Kyoga plain AEZ benefiting more from inorganic fertilizer and pesticide use. Key adoption determinants included soil fertility loss (69%), soil erosion (60%), and access to land (78.6%). The study concludes that addressing soil degradation requires tailored educational programs and localized interventions to enhance farmers' knowledge and improve agricultural sustainability, contributing to food security and poverty reduction in the region. The study recommended the need to promote LMPs that enhance soil fertility, such as agroforestry and mulching, to improve soil health & maize in both AEZs. Improved access to inputs and credit facilities to smallholder farmers, especially in both AEZs, promote the Use of Inorganic Fertilizers and pesticides in Highland AEZ since the application of inorganic fertilizers and pesticides significantly improved maize yields in the Kyoga plain AEZ; these practices should be promoted in the Highland AEZ as well.