Assessment of economic impact of sugarcane production on the livelihood of small-scale farmers in Mayuge district.

Abstract

The study investigates the impact of sugar cane plantation agriculture on the livelihood of small-scale farmers in Mayuge district. The research was guided by three specific objectives namely: (i) To assess the effects of sugar cane growers. (ii) To evaluate the effects of sugar cane plantations on investments among the small-scale sugar cane growers. (iii) To investigate the effects of sugar cane plantation farming on food security among the small-scale sugar cane growers. The research design used was a descriptive survey, this design was preferred because the information sought was descriptive in nature and the researcher did not have control of what had happened but could only describe the situation as it was. The research was centered at both qualitative and quantitative approaches to facilitate comprehensive investigation. This research study was be conducted in Mayuge district located in the eastern region of Uganda the selected population of study was the small-scale sugarcane growers at the household level in Bunya west bunya east and Bunya south. Here the researcher targeted members in sugarcane growers’ association in the selected counties of about 100 registered farmers within the associations showed the majority of the participants 31 (44.3%) were aged between 30-39 years and the least between 20-29 years who were only 4 (5.7%).2 (2.9%) of the participants attained their highest level of education at primary level, 18 (25.7%) at secondary level, 32 (45.7%) at tertiary level and never attended school in their life time. Participants were low -income self-employed earners. Most got their incomes and capital from peasant farmer hood, teaching, boda-boda cycling; 8 (l I .4%) and the majority; 28 (40%) from other undefined vocational businesses. Up to 87% of the respondents reported having their well-being enhanced through sugarcane farming. 28 (40%) of the participants grow mainly cassava for food because cassava can be processed and stored for a longer period and it is more earning economically.26 (37. I who grew sugarcane invested in land purchase after getting high profits from the plantations, followed by 18 (25.7%) who set up more new businesses, 16 (22.9%) who constructed new commercial houses. Basing on the conclusions above, the following recommendations are made to enable the small-scale sugarcane growers to boost their yields, livelihoods and investments. Ensure intercropping of sugarcane with food crops especially leguminous cover crops like beans, soya beans, peas, sim-sim, and groundnuts since these crops non-perennial and improve on soil fertility. This can promote continuous food production alongside the sugarcane. The government should come in and subsidize capital, seeds and possibly costs of production to boost sugarcane production among small-scale sugarcane growers.