TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION AND AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTIVITY A STUDY OF MUBUKU & RWIMI PRISONS FARMS IN WESTERN UGANDA.

Abstract

Background: This study examined the impact of technology adoption on agricultural productivity at Uganda's prison farms, focusing on Mubuku and Rwimi Prison Farms. The Uganda Prisons Service (UPS) integrates agricultural activities into the rehabilitation of inmates, using these farms to test new agricultural techniques and technologies. The study aims to identify adopted technologies, assess productivity, and explore barriers to their implementation.

Methdology: A descriptive and cross-sectional research design was used, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative methods. The sample consisted of 181 participants selected from a target population of 340, including Prison Farm Managers and inmates involved in farming. Data was collected via questionnaires, interviews, and document reviews, and analyzed using SPSS after classification and coding.

Results: Findings revealed that maize was the dominant crop, with 80% of respondents growing it, while only 20% cultivated beans. Livestock farming was less common (27%), with chicken farming being the most widespread. Technological adoption, including automated irrigation, renewable energy (solar panels), agricultural machinery, and integrated pest management, contributed to significant productivity increases. Notable yield improvements included a 700% increase for cowpeas and 500% for rice.

Conclusion: However, barriers to technology adoption included insufficient funding, high technology costs, limited training, poor infrastructure, and resistance to change. The study concluded that while technology adoption improved productivity, challenges like inadequate funding and infrastructure hinder broader implementation.

Recommendation: Increasing government funding, offering continuous training for prison staff and inmates, improving infrastructure, addressing resistance to change, and fostering partnerships with technology providers and research institutions to maximize the potential of these technological innovations and enhance farm sustainability.