Determinants of adoption of improved agronomic practices of (Sesamum indicum L.) production, challenges and opportunities in Lango sub region of Northern Uganda

Abstract

Sesame is a key oilseed crop predominantly cultivated in Northern and Eastern regions of Uganda. Despite efforts to promote sesame production, adoption of improved agronomic practices remains low. This study assesses adoption intensity, determinants of improved agronomic practices, and opportunities for enhancing sesame production in Northern Uganda. The study employed multi-stage and purposive sampling to survey 123 sesame farmers in Lira and Kole districts. Results indicate a 50% adoption intensity for ten critical agronomic practices. Highly adopted practices included early planting (91.9%), weeding (88.6%), crop rotation (72.4%), timely harvesting (90.2%), and proper post-harvest handling (96.7%). Conversely, the least adopted practices were use of improved sesame varieties, recommended spacing, pesticides, fungicides, and fertilizers. A Tobit regression model revealed that young, unmarried farmers with lower education levels, but farming as their primary occupation and having 4-6 years of production experience, exhibited higher acceptance and adoption rates of improved agronomic practices. Overall, addressing challenges such as drought, declining soil fertility, pests and diseases, limited market access, and constraints in inputs and credit is crucial for increasing adoption of improved agronomic practices in sesame production.