Factors that have led to decline of sorghum production among small scale farmers :

Abstract

This research study was about finding factors for low sorghum production in Nabiswa Subcounty former part of large Kirika Subcounty.The small scale sorghum farmers in Nabiswa Subcounty have been cultivating sorghum over the years for household food consumption. The production of the crop had lower yields in the recent years within the study area. Sorghum is known as a food security crop and its ability to withstand dry weather conditions. The objective of this study was to get information about the factors for low sorghum production and give recommendations to increase sorghum production To answer this, the following research question and sub-questions were formulated: What are the importance of sorghum production among small scale farmers? What are the factors leading to the decline of sorghum production in Nabiswa Sub county in Kibuku district? What are the strategies to increase sorghum production among small scale farmers in Nabiswa Sub county in Kibuku district? A qualitative cross sectional survey design was used to collect data from the respondents. The sampling technique used was random sampling where 30 respondents were selected to participate in the study and were given well prepared questionnaires. Data was analyzed using Microsoft Excel software and it was found out that source of food was the major importance of sorghum, decline in soil fertility, was the main factor that have led to decline in sorghum production and the use of fertilizers was the major strategy to overcome constraints leading to decline in sorghum production. The research study concluded that the major strategy to overcome the problem faced by small scale sorghum farmers was use of fertilizers. The study recommended that the Government should increase on number of extension workers to advise farmers in Nabiswa Sub county.