Paper ID: TAGJ2025005

Impact of Banana Value Addition on Household Income of Farmers in Nyakayojo Division, Mbarara City

Annah Katusiime

Department of Agribusiness, Bishop Stuart University, Uganda

Abstract

Bananas are a key staple crop in Uganda, and their value addition has the potential to significantly improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers. This study examines the impact of banana value addition on the household income of farmers in Nyakayojo Division, Mbarara City. The research aimed to assess the level of banana value addition, identify factors affecting household income, and propose measures to improve both banana value addition and household income. A case study research design with cross-sectional analysis was employed, targeting agricultural extension workers and farmers as key informants. A total of 250 respondents participated, and data were collected from both primary and secondary sources. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically, while quantitative data were processed using SPSS for statistical analysis. The findings revealed that the majority of farmers (58%) had been involved in banana value addition for 6–10 years, with 96% of respondents actively engaging in the process. The most common banana-based products included juice (54%), wine (20%), gin (18%), banana pulp-based bakery products (6%), and derivatives from fibers and stems (2%). Additionally, 94% of respondents were aware of the factors influencing household income, such as unstable prices, poor soil quality, low agricultural yields, climate change (including droughts and heavy rains), high transportation costs, and suboptimal farming practices. The study concludes that banana value addition significantly influences household income; however, challenges such as market instability and poor farming methods must be addressed. It is recommended that the government support value addition initiatives through financing, and that NGOs provide technical knowledge to farmers to enhance productivity and income.

Download