Agricultural extension services and food security among small holder farmers in Kazo District, Uganda

Abstract

The study examined the effectiveness of agricultural extension services in enhancing food security among smallholder farmers in Kazo District, Uganda. The study objectives were; to assess the effect of technology transfer on enhancing food security among smallholder farmers in Kazo District, Uganda, to examine the influence of training and capacity building on enhancing food security among smallholder farmers in Kazo District, Uganda and to analyze the effect of access to inputs and credit on enhancing food security among smallholder farmers in Kazo District, Uganda. The study adopted a cross-sectional research design using mixed methods, targeting an accessible population of 300 respondents comprising smallholder farmers, agricultural extension officers, and key stakeholders in Kazo District, Uganda. A sample size of 169 respondents was selected using the Krejcie and Morgan (1970) table, applying both purposive and simple random sampling techniques. Data were collected using questionnaires and interviews, supplemented by document review and observation, while instruments included self-administered questionnaires, interview guides, and documentary checklists. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS (version 24), while qualitative data were examined through thematic analysis. Findings revealed strong agreement that technology transfer (88.2%), training (91.2%), and access to credit (73.5%) significantly enhance food security. Additionally, 61.8% of respondents reported improved food availability, and 55.9% indicated year-round food access. Correlation and regression analyses confirmed significant positive relationships between technology transfer and food security (r = 0.457, p < .01), training and capacity building and food security (r = 0.557, p < .01), and access to inputs and credit and food security (r = 0.527, p < .01). The study concludes that successful bridge between laboratory based innovations and field applications is the most reliable mechanism for improving food availability and access, training is not merely a supportive activity but a primary driver of agricultural stability and financial liquidity and material farming inputs are mutually reinforcing pillars of agricultural productivity. The study recommends the government through ministry of agriculture should strengthening technology transfer through increased investment in extension services, farmer training, climate-smart technologies, and participatory innovation platforms. It further emphasizes enhancing farmers’ skills through continuous capacity-building programs and improving access to agricultural inputs and affordable credit through supportive government policies, financial institutions, and farmer organizations. Future studies should focus on climate change adaptation practices and the role of agricultural cooperatives in food security.