Abstract:
Adoption of paddy innovations is important for production and productivity but there has been
low or non adoption at different places in Tanzania. Despite this adoption of innovations has not
been convincing. This research was conducted in Mvomero District, Morogoro, Tanzania to
determine the extent of adoption of innovations in paddy production and analyzed factors
influencing this adoption. A cross-sectional research design was adopted and 299 respondents
were sampled using simple random technique. Data were collected using questionnaire, in-depth
interviews, field observation and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Qualitative data were
analyzed using content analysis. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to estimate factors
influencing adoption of innovations. The study concludes that, it is difficult for a smallholder
paddy farmer to attain full adoption of an innovation package which composes several practices
in it as it become complex to follow. Extension programmes including trainings on introduced
innovations and regular visits are important for adoption of paddy innovations to rural farmers.
Markets availability is an opportunity which motivates farmers to adopt paddy innovations.
Therefore, farmers should be well-informed of the markets by the extension and marketing
officers. |
