Factors Influencing the Adoption of Soil Erosion Control Technologies by Farmers along the Slopes of Mt. Elgon in Eastern Uganda

Low land productivity due to soil erosion is one of the biggest challenges to improving the performance of the agriculture sector in Uganda. Several soil erosion control technologies are recommended for use by farmers, but there have been claims that adoption of such technologies is still low. Therefore, this study aimed at determining factors that influence the incidence and intensity of technology adoption. A survey was conducted in Bukwo and Kween districts, which are located on the slopes of Mt. Elgon in eastern Uganda. The collected data was analysed using descriptive statistics and double hurdle models. The findings revealed that on average, the incidence of technology adoption is appreciably high and the intensity of use is moderately high. Nonetheless, a considerable percentage of farmers are using the technologies on small scale. We note that technology adoption can be further increased by increases in: access to extension services, amount of land owned, and diversity of farm tools owned by farmers. However, some farmers are not well endowed with regard to the agricultural assets and services alluded to. Thus, we recommend support to farmers by both Government and non-Government actors in line with the factors identified as potential catalysts of adoption of soil erosion control technologies.