Agriculture & Environment
Gender Dynamics affect Uptake of Agricultural Technologies – Mak SECA Study
A study conducted by Makerere University researchers in Iganga and Bugiri districts indicates that disparities still exist regarding access and sustained use of improved crop varieties among women and men. The men still dominate decision making power which negatively impacts on the sustained use and uptake of improved crop varieties in the two districts. Gender transformative approaches that consider the interest and needs of both men and women, are deemed fit for the design and implementation of interventions and ensure voices and aspirations of men and women are considered.
Between 2020–2022, researchers from Makerere University Department of Extension and Innovation Studies with support from Carnegie Corporation of New York under the Auspices of the Directorate of Graduate Research and Training programme of Supporting Early Career Academics through Post-Doctoral training at Makerere University (SECA) undertook a study titled, “Intra-household Gender Dynamics in Uptake of Agricultural Technologies for Sustained livelihoods in Uganda.”
The study was conducted in Nakigo and Nambaale sub-counties in Iganga and Buwunga and Nabukalu sub counties in Bugiri districts. The study areas were selected because of the intensity of interventions by government and non-state agencies in the area aimed at enhancing resilience of the farming systems and increasing agricultural productivity.
The study, aimed to unravel the power dynamics at the household level that influence sustained use of new crop varieties for equitable and sustainable likelihoods in Uganda. The research therefore adopted a gender approach in examining decision making patterns, power relations and negotiation processes at household level and how these influence access to control over new technologies and ultimately sustained use. This was disclosed during the research dissemination workshops conducted on 6th and 7th October 2022 in the study areas that brought together district administrative and technical officers including, production, extension and agricultural officers, district chairpersons, senior production secretaries, farmers and farmer groups, civil society organisations and community-based organisations.
According to the Principal Investigator, Dr. Losira Nasirumbi Sanya, progress towards attaining food security remains a challenge partly due to low use of science and technological innovations developed over time. While sharing the study findings for validation, Dr. Losira explained that the overall objective of the research was to contribute towards promoting sustainable use of new agricultural technologies and innovations through better understanding of the gendered dynamics that enhance access and sustained use as a pathway to transformation of production systems and increasing productivity.
“The specific objectives were to describe the dissemination and use of agricultural technologies in selected districts of Eastern agro-ecological zone of Uganda; analyse the intra-household gender roles and relations in regard to technology access and sustained use within the institution of the household, and quantify the distribution of the decision-making power within dual adult households and how this influences technology uptake and empowerment among women,” she said.
She said data was collected from men and women using survey questionnaires, focus group discussions and in-depth farmer interviews. The findings indicated that farmers were involved in growing at least eight crops, two of the crops purposely for food security, one for cash and the rest for both food and cash. The crops include maize, cassava, beans, sweet potatoes, ground nuts, rice, soybeans, coffee and bananas among others.
The study revealed that in the past five years, men had more access to training on farming and improved seeds from government related experts and NGOs.The study also revealed that though women went to cluster project [ACDP] and accessed improved seed, only a few continued to use such varieties due to several factors.
The study also established that households had joint and individual plots for women and men. Joint farms according to this research were preferred by men and women to promote harmony and reduce domestic violence, ease management, sharing resources and labour, timely planting and due to limited land.
Men, the study found, preferred their own plots to meet their diverse demands since some were polygamous, and wanted to fulfil family obligations. On the other hand, it was found that women preferred individual farms for financial independence, control over their income and the need to ensure food security.
When it came to access to farming resources such as land, fertilizers, herbicides and seeds, the study indicated that men had more access but women were mostly involved in providing farm labour for planting and weeding.
Findings on the intra-household decision making power indicated that 62% of women accorded themselves a high score of having more decision making power than what men scored them in relation to their input to decision dimensions related to asset ownership and use, productive decisions, use of labour (hired and family), marketing, financial time allocation and access to trainings, extension and group membership. However, 29% of the women gave themselves a lower score than their spouses scored them across the different decision dimensions. The study found perfect agreement in the scores assigned by men and women in only 9% of the households. “Decision making power is directly linked to one’s ability to make choice and action on that choice,” said the PI. “A mismatch between actual and perceived empowerment in decision making signals opportunities for creating awareness among farming communities if we are to achieve the intended goal of equitable access and outcomes.”
The study revealed that the disparities in decision making power affected the use of improved technologies and productivity.
“Women with high decision making power (empowered) were more likely able to sustain use of improved varieties than those with lower scores.Those with low decision making power were highly associated with low use of improved varieties. Those with the ability to make decisions and even when closer to extension services were able to grow more improved varieties though high decision making power was negatively associated with the number of improved varieties grown. This illuminates the fact that women’s empowerment in decision making has potential to contribute to closing the gender gap in sustained use thus the need to be more intentional about women’s participation, decision making and agency in development interventions if we are to achieve greater impact in sustained use of agricultural technologies towards better livelihoods,” Dr. Losira explained.
During the dissemination workshop, the District Agricultural Officer, Iganga, Mr. Bazalaki Sully Nantatya said, the research has been of great value and has unearthed the dynamics in the communities in regard to gender relations, decision making and uptake of technologies.
He reported that technology uptake in Iganga district has been good because of the capacity building initiative undertaken by a number of partners and projects both through government and non-state actors.
“This research has revealed that adoption of improved technologies has been embraced which has led to increased yields and farmers are very appreciative. Since the start of this research, we have observed that gender relations have improved among participating households when it comes to working in gardens and decision making and that now a wife and husband have come closer and jointly taking lead in implementing farming activities right from planting to marketing. This has been made possible by the approach adopted in this research of having both spouses involved in all activities. Farmers are also realising the use of improved technologies which they feel must be sustained. As a district, we are thinking of enhancing input delivery system to sustain the new interventions and all these have been revealed during the dissemination workshop which has pointed out where things are working out well and not,” he said
The Agricultural Officer, Nambaale Sub County, Gwahaba Richard said farmers easily take up new technologies especially to increase yields but hardly sustain their use.
“We need to wake up as extension officers and district partners and concentrate on gender issues so that men, women and children at the household level embrace these technologies and work together to sustain them,” he said.
Representing the District Chairperson Iganga, the Vice Chairperson, Ali Mukacha appreciated Makerere University for choosing Iganga as a site for the research saying, the study was in line with the government strategy of modernising agriculture and improving farmers’ livelihoods from a peasantry to middle income earners by the year 2030.
He said Nambaale Sub County has been one of the model sub-counties in the district that has participated in many interventions. He pledged the district support towards any research program in the area.
Rebecca Naigaga, a farmer from Iganga districts appreciated the research.
“I have learnt a lot that a husband and wife need to sit together during the planting season and agree on how to rent land, its size, what crops to plant. Then during harvest, we need to agree on what amount to sell and leave for food and what to sell for fees. The other, I have learnt is that, men have more access to land but as women we can also hire,” she noted.
Elias Mutyaba from Nambaale Agro business appreciated the study for changing his mindset and called upon farmers to adopt modern farming practices.
“This time I have changed my attitude. I was so piteous of myself that I was unemployed but with this workshop, I have learnt that farming is also a business where I can earn money. I call upon my fellow farmers to embrace new varieties and use of fertilisers to improve the yields,” he said.
Uganda’s agricultural sector is a cornerstone of its economy, with the potential to drive sustainable economic growth, reduce poverty, and promote agro-industrialization. The government has set ambitious targets, including increasing agriculture’s contribution to the GDP, ensuring food and nutrition security by 2030, and creating decent employment opportunities for women and youth, with the goal of halving poverty levels by that same year.
To support the realization of the National Agro-industrialization Agenda and Uganda’s Vision 2040, the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), with the support of the Africa Network of Agricultural Policy Research Institutes (ANAPRI) and the APEX platform, officially launched the Agricultural Policy Research Centre (APRC) on 24 February 2025. The APRC aims to strengthen evidence-based policymaking, ensuring that Uganda’s agricultural policies are grounded in solid empirical data and research. By employing analytical methods and using nationally representative data, the Centre will provide valuable insights into Uganda’s agri-food systems’ challenges and opportunities. Its goal is to contribute to the creation of sustainable, impactful agricultural policies that enhance food security, stimulate economic growth, and improve the livelihoods of Uganda’s farming communities.
Objectives of the Agricultural Policy Research Centre
The primary goal of the APRC is to promote increased use of research evidence in policy-making, ensuring that policy decisions are grounded in objective, data-driven analysis. The key objectives of the Centre include:
- Supporting the implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and impact assessment of national development plans, programmes, projects, and policies.
- Generating analytical outputs from major datasets, such as the Uganda National Household Survey and the Annual Agricultural Survey, to inform national policy.
- Building the capacity of government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in monitoring and evaluation, data management, and analytics.
- Strengthening collaborations between CAES and development partners to enhance sustainable agricultural policies.
- Advancing the employability of Applied Economics students through training in data analytics.
- Ensuring effective integration of research outcomes into executive decision-making processes.
Anticipated Outcomes
The launch of the APRC is expected to yield several key outcomes, including:
- Strengthened integration of research into the national policy-making process.
- Increased awareness and engagement with the Centre’s mandate by stakeholders.
- The establishment of networks among government entities, academic institutions, donors, and research partners.
- Enhanced capacity for MDAs through specialized training in data management and analytics.
- Improved employability for students and researchers in Applied Economics.
The Inaugural Launch Event
The APRC was officially launched by Uganda’s Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF), represented by Mr. Steven Byantwale, the Commissioner for Crop Protection, on 24th February 2025. The launch ceremony was attended by prominent scholars and practitioners from the agricultural sector, who engaged in discussions on the role of academia and think tanks in shaping national policies.
Remarks by the Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries
In his speech, the Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF), Hon. Frank Tumwebaze highlighted the importance of the APRC, emphasizing its role in improving agricultural policies through research, data, and stakeholder engagement. The Minister noted that past agricultural policies often lacked empirical data, leading to inefficiencies and poor implementation. “The APRC’s focus on rigorous research and collaboration with various sectors will ensure that policies are data-driven, inclusive, and sustainable,” he noted.
The Minister affirmed the government’s commitment to agricultural transformation and food security in line with Uganda’s strategic priorities. “APRC’s work will be closely aligned with the Ministry, Uganda Bureau of Statistics, and other stakeholders to enhance service delivery, promote agricultural innovation, and improve value chains.”
He urged all stakeholders to actively engage with APRC, stressing the need for knowledge-sharing and capacity-building. The Minister extended appreciation to all development partners for their support in funding research and policy development. He encouraged researchers and academics to use APRC as a platform for innovative and impactful solutions.
On behalf of the Minister of State for Animal Industry at MAAIF, Hon. Bright Rwamirama, Dr Anna Rose Ademun Okurut, the Commissioner for Animal Health, underscored the importance of connecting research with policy. “For a nation to progress, its actions must be rooted in research,” she emphasized, calling for the creation of policies that can effectively promote the adoption of research findings.
Former Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Victoria Ssekitoleko, highlighted the need for research that tackles the real challenges faced by local communities. She suggested revisions to the Bachelor of Agriculture programme to better align with the evolving demands of the industry. “It’s essential to equip individuals in Agricultural Extension and Agribusiness with skills in public speaking,” she emphasized. Additionally, Hon. Ssekitoleko called for the implementation of policies to regulate the real estate sector, which is believed to be rapidly consuming agricultural land.
Vice Chancellor’s address
In his address, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, represented by Prof. Robert Wamala, Director Research and Graduate Training emphasized the significance of the Agricultural Policy Research Centre (APRC) in advancing evidence-based policy for Uganda’s agricultural sector. “Today marks a significant milestone in our efforts to support evidence-based policy processes in Uganda’s agricultural sector, and as the host institution, we take immense pride in this achievement,” he said.
The Vice Chancellor noted that the APRC will bridge the gap between academic research and policy-making. “This Centre will complement existing efforts and will serve as a hub for cutting-edge policy research, drawing on the expertise of our renowned faculty, researchers, and graduate students. By working closely with government ministries, development partners, the private sector, and civil society organizations, APRC will translate research findings into actionable policies that benefit farmers, agribusinesses, and the broader economy. Additionally, APRC provides a unique learning and training platform for students and young researchers who aspire to shape the future of agricultural policy in Uganda and beyond. I specifically commend the strategic partnership with the APEX platform of the Office of the President in this initiative,” he explained.
He expressed gratitude to the Government of Uganda for recognizing the importance of the APRC by providing the necessary support for its establishment. He also acknowledged the financial and technical support of the Centre’s development partners, whose contributions are expected to leave a lasting impact on Uganda’s agricultural sector.
In a special way, the Vice Chancellor appreciated the Principal of CAES and the leadership of the Department of Agribusiness and Natural Resource Economics (DANRE) for their dedication to guiding the initiative.
Principal, CAES
Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, the Principal of CAES, described the launch of the Agricultural Policy Research Centre (APRC) as a significant step in transforming Uganda’s agricultural sector. She explained that the Centre seeks to tackle ongoing challenges, such as low productivity, the impacts of climate change, market inefficiencies, and gaps in policy implementation. “The APRC is designed to bridge the gap between scientific research and policy-making, ensuring that agricultural policies are grounded in credible, data-driven insights,” she said. “Its main objective is to provide empirical evidence that will guide decision-making, monitor agricultural trends, and evaluate the effectiveness of existing policies. The Centre is also committed to building the capacity of future agricultural policy analysts and promoting collaboration among academia, policymakers, and industry stakeholders.”
The Principal explained that the Centre will host policy roundtables, stakeholder forums, and consultations to foster dialogue among government agencies, private sector leaders, farmer organizations, and development partners. “These platforms will drive solutions to Uganda’s agricultural challenges.”
She acknowledged the invaluable support from the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University and the Africa Network of Agricultural Policy Research Institutes (ANAPRI) in establishing the APRC. Prof. Nabanoga invited stakeholders, including researchers, private sector partners, and civil society organizations, to engage with the APRC in generating relevant research and advocating for policy reforms that will shape the future of Uganda’s agriculture.
The workshop featured a panel discussion with experts from both the government and private sectors, exploring the crucial role that academic institutions and think tanks play in shaping national policies. Additionally, the event featured presentations on Uganda’s value chains and the development of its livestock infrastructure.
The APRC is coordinated by Prof. Bernard Bashaasha under the Department of Agribusiness and Natural Resource Economics (DANRE), School of Agricultural Sciences at CAES.
Video of the launch proceedings:
Additional Photos from the event
Agriculture & Environment
Mak Unveils Key Findings on Urban Development Challenges in Kampala, Proposes Reforms for Improvement
Makerere University has released a comprehensive report detailing the key challenges affecting urban development in Kampala, one of Africa’s fastest-growing cities. With an annual population growth rate of 5.6%, Kampala faces significant pressure on its infrastructure and urban systems. The report, part of the African Cities Research Consortium (ACRC) program, aims to provide actionable insights to improve the living conditions and urban services for all residents, especially marginalized communities.
Launched by Hon. Mario Obiga Kania, the Minister of State for Urban Development, on 13th February 2025, the report explores the political, social, and infrastructural dynamics that have shaped urban development in Kampala. The analysis covers critical domains, including informal settlements, youth and capability development, land and connectivity, and health, wellbeing, and nutrition.
A Holistic Approach to Kampala’s Urban Challenges
The findings are based on extensive research by Makerere University‘s Urban Action Lab, with contributions from scholars, practitioners, and experts both local and international. The report identifies the most pressing challenges facing the city, particularly for its disadvantaged communities, and provides a framework for addressing these issues in a way that is equitable, sustainable, and inclusive. Key contributors to the research include: Dr. Paul Isolo Mukwaya, lead author and Head, Department of Geography, Geo-Informatics and Climatic Sciences at Makerere University; Ms. Judith Mbabazi, Researcher, Urban Action Lab, Makerere University; Prof. Henrik Ernstson, Honorary Senior Research Fellow, The University of Manchester, UK; Dr. Peter Kasaija, Dr. Daniel Ochieng Ologe, Dr. Ritah Nakanjako, and Dr. Kareem Buyana, Researchers, Urban Action Lab, Makerere University; Ms. Hasifa Namuli, Wakiso Town Council Planner; Dr. Gloria Seruwagi, School of Public Health, Makerere University; Dr. Nansozi K. Muwanga, and Patricia Liola Tona Katto, Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre; Dr. Henry Bazira, Ms. Maria Ssematiko, Dr. Eria Serwajja, Mr. Muhamed Lunyago, and Dr. Doreen Kobusingye.
Key Findings
- Infrastructure Deficits: The city is struggling with significant deficits in infrastructure and service provision, which are further exacerbated by rapid population growth.
- Governance Challenges: Multiple actors, including the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and the central government, often fail to coordinate effectively on service delivery. This lack of coordination leads to inefficiencies and contestations within city systems.
- Inequality in Service Delivery: Informal settlements are disproportionately affected by poor service delivery, including inefficient transport, inadequate electricity distribution, and insecure neighbourhoods.
- Privatization and Market-Driven Approaches: Privatization of services has led to a fragmented system, where gaps in service delivery are filled by private actors, resulting in unreliable and inaccessible services for many, particularly in informal settlements.
- Mistrust and Governance Issues: Political struggles, corruption, and ineffective governance slow down reform efforts and hinder sustained investment in key urban sectors.
- Political Elites and Informality: The influence of political and business elites operating informally impacts critical decisions on urban development, particularly regarding land, infrastructure, and public services.
- Health and Nutrition Gaps: Despite abundant food, low incomes and poor nutrition knowledge contribute to poor health outcomes. A more informed and accessible approach to nutrition is needed.
- Youth and Vulnerability: Kampala’s youth, who represent 46% of the population, are underserved by policies and face high rates of teenage pregnancies and drug abuse, perpetuating cycles of poverty.
- Land Market Exploitation: Land brokers take advantage of information gaps in the land market, complicating efforts to address housing and land tenure issues.
- Informal Settlements and Political Capital: Informal settlements in Kampala are becoming significant for economic rents and political leverage, which further complicates efforts to address urban challenges.
Proposed Reforms
The report suggests several priority reforms to improve Kampala’s urban development, including:
- Upgrading Informal Settlements: Addressing poor housing conditions and infrastructure in informal settlements.
- Proper Land Registration: Enhancing land tenure security through improved registration systems.
- Waste Management and Public Health: Implementing sustainable waste management systems and promoting healthy diets through public health campaigns.
- Youth Skills Development: Creating apprenticeship programs, vocational training, and life-skills initiatives for youth.
- Improving State Capabilities: Strengthening the capacity of local and central governments to manage urban challenges, with a focus on financing, human resource development, and forging productive partnerships with non-state actors.
- The authors stress the importance of community participation in governance and propose that economists, urban researchers, and other stakeholders provide urban policy advice without being seen as political opposition.
- Other proposed initiatives include: i) the Kawenja Plastic Waste Entrepreneurship and Innovation Hub aims to improve a slum upgrading project in Kisenyi III, focusing on flood control and livelihood enhancement. It will create a network of plastic waste collectors, conduct a situation analysis, and collaborate with Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and other agencies. The initiative will involve procuring and installing equipment to formalize recycling efforts. ii) Improved Hygiene and Sanitation at Ggaba Market: To address hygiene and sanitation challenges faced by food vendors, the report proposes the installation of a sludge transfer tank and a three-wheeler vehicle at Ggaba Market. This intervention aims to enhance sanitation standards and create a healthier environment for both vendors and customers.
Remarks from Key Stakeholders
The meeting was attended by representatives from government and non-government organizations, as well as leaders from the Kampala Capital City Authority, who shared insights into the city’s development challenges and proposed several reforms for improvement.
Hon. Mario Obiga Kania, Minister of State for Urban Development
In his address, Hon. Mario Obiga Kania, Minister of State for Urban Development encouraged city leaders to view Kampala’s challenges as opportunities for growth. He highlighted the city’s potential to generate revenue for Uganda and emphasized the need for systemic improvements in service delivery. The Minister commended the researchers and committed to supporting the implementation of their recommendations. “Research should be viewed as a tool for solving issues, not just lamenting over them. Our leaders need to recognize Kampala as an integral part of Uganda’s governance due to its vital role in the country’s development. We must prioritize making Kampala thrive, as it is the central hub for commercial activity. City planning should accommodate and support informal trade effectively. Moving forward, we must focus on reducing youth unemployment through life-skills programs. Additionally, there is an urgent need to improve waste management, enhance financial literacy, and better regulate refugee affairs.”
The Lord Mayor of Kampala
Briefing participants on the city development challenges, the Lord Mayor, Erias Lukwago expressed concern over the growing political interference and the lack of funding for planned activities. “On several occasions, we have struggled to address issues of physical planning, yet Kampala still lacks a structural plan. The Directorate of Physical Planning at KCCA is the least funded. While Kampala boasts of the best natural environment, its built environment is among the worst. There is a pressing need to transform the city’s vast slums into the ‘Garden City of Africa’.” He expressed gratitude to ACRC for the report, noting that its findings would be crucial in guiding the implementation of reforms in the City.
Vice Chancellor’s address
In his address, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, represented by Prof. Edward Bbaale, Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences, expressed appreciation to the ACRC research team for dedicating their time and resources to investigate the challenges hindering progress in the city. “As Vice Chancellor, I acknowledge the significant role our university plays in shaping the future of Kampala and Uganda. Our mission to foster innovation, research, and education must address the challenges of urban development, enabling us to create sustainable solutions for growth. A key issue is the growing demand for housing, driven by Kampala’s rapid population growth. However, the supply of affordable, quality housing has not kept up, resulting in overcrowded slums and poor living conditions. As an academic institution, we are well-placed to contribute by researching affordable building technologies, promoting sustainable urban planning, and collaborating with policymakers to ensure equitable housing for all.”
Commenting on the challenges posed by the city’s population growth, the Vice Chancellor pointed out the inadequacies in transport infrastructure and waste management. He stressed the importance of collaborating with researchers to develop alternative transportation models, smart mobility solutions, and urban planning that prioritizes walkability while reducing reliance on private cars. Additionally, he highlighted the need for further research into waste-to-energy technologies, the creation of sustainable waste management systems, and the promotion of environmentally responsible practices.
“As Kampala expands, we must also consider the preservation of its natural environment. Green spaces, parks, and urban forests are essential for the well-being of the city’s inhabitants. They provide recreational areas, improve air quality, reduce urban heat, and contribute to the overall aesthetic of the city,” he explained.
Mr. Joseph Walter Pade, the Commissioner, Urban Development at the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, emphasized the need to involve the entire country in addressing the challenges facing Kampala. He also highlighted the importance of changing mindsets to tackle the city’s development issues.
The Dean of the School of Forestry, Environmental and Geographical Sciences, Dr. Revocatus Twinomuhangi, commended the research team for the excellent work and called for the wider dissemination of the findings to maximize their impact.
-
General1 week agoCall for Applications: Admission to Postgraduate Programmes 2025/2026
-
Engineering, Art & Tech2 weeks agoCall for Applications; Makerere University – University of Groningen Erasmus+ Programme (2021 – 2027)
-
General1 week agoPrincess Zahra Aga Khan Visits Mak, Tours Innovation Pod
-
Engineering, Art & Tech2 weeks agoCall for applications: Master’s Scholarship for Exchange Semester at TUM for Winter Semester 2025/26, 1 Oct 2025 – 31 March 2026
-
General4 days agoExtension of Applications for Diploma/Degree Holders for Govt. & Private Sponsorship AY 2025/2026