Assessing the socio-economic impacts of agrochemical inputs in farm production on small scale farmers:

Abstract

This study focused on assessing the socioeconomic impacts of agrochemical inputs in farm production on small scale farmers, a case study of Ngetta sub-county lira district in Northern Uganda. Specifically, the study aimed at: identifying the different types of agrochemical inputs used by small scale famers, finding out the socioeconomic benefits of using agrochemical inputs to small scale farmers, identifying the socioeconomic problems associated with use of agrochemical inputs on environment and livelihood, and suggesting possible measures to address the problems associated with use of agrochemical inputs. Data was collected using questionnaires, interviews and observation from (70) respondents. Data was further processed and analyzed using excel and SPSS. The study found out that majority of the small scale farmers are using artificial agrochemicals compared to natural/organic inputs. Famers apply agrochemicals to reduce pest and disease infestation but in turn it’s found that it kills soil living organisms leading to soil exhaustion which reduces household productivity and as a measure to reduce its impact the study suggested regulation of use of agrochemicals. Farmers prefer the use of agrochemical inputs in crop production as it helps reduce on crop pest diseases and weeds but its use should be regulated and also agrochemicals used should be vetted for its safety to man and the environment.