Impact of Agricultural Modernization on the Socio- Economic Status of Smallholder Farmers in Luweero and Nakaseke Districts in Uganda

Abstract

The aim of this paper was to study the impact of agricultural modernization on the socio-economic status of smallholder farmers in Luweero and Nakaseke Districts. The study adopted a cross sectional research design using a sample size of 350 respondents who were randomly selected from eight Sub-counties in the two districts. Primary data collection was done through the use of self-administered questionnaires, interview guides and focused group discussions. The data was analysed using the independent samples t-test. The findings revealed that low adopters of modern agricultural practices were significantly at a disadvantage when it comes to the acquisition of valuable assets compared to high adopters. Findings further indicated that food security, household income and expenditure were significantly higher among high adopters than low adopters. Promotion of awareness about the benefits inherent in agricultural modernization as a vehicle for improving smallholder farmers‟ socio economic status isrecommended.