The Perceived Effectiveness of Risk Reduction Strategies Adopted by Smallholder Horticultural Farmers in Nabuyonga Sub Catchment, Mbale City, Uganda

Abstract

Smallholder horticultural farmers face a mix of inter-related risks and challenges which jeopardize their livelihoods, food security and nutrition, thereby rendering them increasingly vulnerable to a spectrum of emerging climatic, health, price and financial risks. This study thus, aimed at contributing to a better understanding of the risks faced and the perceived effectiveness of the risk reduction strategies adopted by smallholder farmers in pursuit of an enhanced urban food system resilience in Mbale City, Eastern Uganda. A multi-level sampling criteria in which households that practiced horticulture were purposively selected from the lists obtained from the Mbale City Production office. Thereafter, seventy-seven households were randomly selected from the lists for the study. Data were collected by way of household interviews, focus group discussions, key informant interviews and field observations. The data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics notably, independent t- tests and analysis of variance. The results revealed that significant risks such as floods and dry spells (88.3%) which mainly affected tomato gardens (72.7%), followed by counterfeit inputs (83%), price fluctuations (76.8%), health risks (particularly COVID19) (71%) and stealing of already grown crops (66.2%). It was established that effectiveness of adopted risk reduction strategies was significantly influenced by education levels, income sources and gender (p-value < 0.005). The study recommends several interventions including the exploration of low-cost technologies by smallholder farmers, enhancement of stakeholder engagements, improved logistical support and facilitation of agricultural extension officers as well as, investing in affordable storage facilities. If implemented through a coordinated process, these recommendations could significantly enhance agricultural productivity, value addition and sustainable livelihood opportunities while concurrently promoting the economic prosperity of the wider Mbale City region.