Assessing the Influence of Organic Farming on Food Security in Luweero District: A Case Study of Kikyusa Sub-County.

Abstract

KYAKUWA JOAN (2013-M092-20006) Assessing the Influence of Organic Farming on Food Security in Luweero District: A Case Study of Kikyusa Sub-County. The study was done to assess the influence of organic farming on food security in Kikyusa sub-county, Luweero district with specific objectives that included; (a) to find out whether inter-cropping under organic farming has increased food availability (b) to determine whether the use of organic manure has contributed to food utilisation (c) to establish the role of bio-pesticides in promoting food stability (d) to find out the challenges encountered by organic farmers in Kikyusa sub-county. The study adopted both qualitative and quantitative approaches, using a case study design. The study population consisted of organic farmers and agricultural extension workers from kikyusa sub-county. A sample size of 100 organic farmers was selected for the study using simple random and purposive sampling techniques. The study used both primary and secondary sources to collect data. Primary data was collected using questionnaires, interview guides, focus group discussions and observations. The secondary data was collected through documentary review. The study findings indicated that inter-cropping and use of manure have had a positive effect on food security by 90% in Kikyusa sub-county. The use of these techniques was proved to have a great influence in improving soil fertility and food production. For instance, inter-cropping showed to have a significant influence in the production of food diversity and maintaining soil fertility. The use of manure was found to have a great influence in producing vitamins and protein-rich food crops by 85%. However, it was found that the use of bio-pesticides has not had any impact on food stability. The main food crops grown included; bananas, beans, maize, sweet potatoes, cassava, kyetumula, green vegetables and fruits including mangoes, oranges and pineapples. The study found that the main challenges that organic farmers face in Kikyusa sub-county included; unfavourable weather changes, pests and diseases and lack of market for their crops. In conclusion, the study noted that organic farming has high potential to improve food security in Kikyusa sub-county, hence, it is recommended to improve farmer‟s knowledge on new organic farming methods and adequate investment in research on organic farming practices. Finally, farmers should be empowered to have access to credit facilities through micro-finance institutions so that they can expand their production and be able to supply their products to markets. Key Words: Organic Farming, Food Security, Luweero District.