Effects of Socio-demographic Characteristics on Adoption of Improved Sorghum Farming Practices in Dodoma region, Tanzania

Subject Areas : Rural Studies

Peter  Kadilikansimba ¹ (Moshi Co-operative University (MoCU), Moshi, Tanzania)
Gervas  Machimu ² (Local Government Training Institute (LGTI), Hombolo, Tanzania)
Alfred  Sife ³ (Local Government Training Institute (LGTI), Hombolo, Tanzania)

Received: 2023-06-28 Accepted : 2023-10-01 Published : 2023-09-01

Keywords: Information, Communication media, Farming practices,

Abstract :

The adoption of improved farming practices plays a crucial role in enhancing agricultural productivity and ensuring food security for smallholder farmers. This research aimed to analyze how socio-demographic factors influence the adoption of these practices in the Dodoma Region, Tanzania. Through a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 399 sorghum farmers in the region using questionnaires and interview guide. The adoption quotient was used to measure the results, revealing that 14.79% were non-adopters, 39.35% were low adopters, 16.04% were medium adopters, and 29.82% were high adopters of improved sorghum farming practices. Analyzing the data with a linear mixed model, it was found that only two socio-demographic factors—farming experience and information seeking behavior—had a statistically significant positive influence on the adoption of improved farming practices (p-value < 0.05). These findings emphasize the need to consider the local context when promoting adoption and recommend tailored interventions to address region-specific challenges faced by farmers. Designing strategies to promote adoption should account for local environmental conditions, socio-cultural factors, and economic considerations. It is important to customize the dissemination of agricultural information to suit the unique needs of different socio-demographic groups, taking into account factors such as education levels, age groups, gender, and the specific challenges posed by the local environment.

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