Factors Affecting Banana Production in Rugashali Cell, Rugashali Town Council, Kagadi District Mid-South Western Uganda

Abstract

This Participatory Action Research study investigated factors affecting banana production in Rugashali cell, Kagadi District Mid-South Western Uganda. Employing mixed-methods, the study identified key challenges and explored improvement strategies. The objectives of the Study; To find out the current status of banana production in Rugashali cell; To identify the underlying causes of low banana production in Rugashali cell; To find out the techniques/practices applied by farmers in banana production in Rugashali Cell; To identify methods for enhancing banana production in Rugashali cell. The research team used a sample size of 227 respondents from a total population of 530 respondents The study used excel to analyze data and the findings were, 61% female respondents, 18-35 years (10%), 40% married, technical staff, 3% Master's Degree, 11% Diploma, 8% Bachelor's Degree holders The Key Challenges were; Soil degradation (37%), Banana bacterial wilt (25%), Limited markets (13%), Limited access to agricultural inputs (13%), Climate conditions (6%) The Current Practices were; Intercropping (37%), Fertilizers (25%), Mulching (13%), Irrigation (6%), Improvement Strategies, agricultural study tours (38%), Sensitization and training meetings (25%), accessible markets (25%), applying agronomic practices (12%) The theory used was; Sustainable agricultural theory (Pretty, 2008), that was emphasizing organic farming, integrated pest management and soil conservation. In conclusion, the study highlights complex challenges facing banana production in Rugashali cell and identifies targeted interventions. Findings inform strategies for enhancing production, sustainability and resilience. Recommendations; Implement soil conservation programs, conduct workshops on sustainable agricultural practices, improve market accessibility.