Balancing Tradition and Modernity of Agriculture Practices; Smallholder Farmer Perspectives on Fertilizer Adoption and Improved Crop Varieties in the Teso Sub-Region, Uganda

Abstract

This qualitative exploratory study examined smallholder farmers' perspectives on fertilizer adoption and improved crop varieties amid resource constraints and evolving agroecological conditions. Data were collected through focus group discussions with 32 smallholder farmers across the Kateta, Nyero, Oriyo, and Apeduru sub-counties of the Teso Sub-Region, Uganda, using a semi-structured discussion guide. The discussions elicited farmers' experiences with fertilizer use and improved crop varieties, alongside their perceptions of the associated benefits and adoption challenges. Audio-recorded sessions were transcribed verbatim and subjected to thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns across participant accounts. The analysis yielded five interrelated themes: (1) sustained reliance on organic fertilizers as the cornerstone of soil fertility management; (2) strategic incorporation of inorganic fertilizers to boost productivity; (3) growing uptake of commercial productivity enhancers for crop growth and pest management; (4) diffusion of improved crop varieties facilitated by public and private extension networks; and (5) enduring structural barriers to agricultural innovation—namely, limited technical knowledge, high input costs, climate variability, pest pressure, and post-harvest losses. Participants indicated that hybridizing indigenous farming knowledge with modern agricultural inputs enhanced crop performance and yield outcomes. Nonetheless, these gains were frequently tempered by affordability constraints, insufficient training in input application, environmental risks, and market-related limitations. The findings suggest that sustainable agricultural transformation among smallholder farmers necessitates integrated support systemscombining input accessibility with targeted farmer training, climate-smart extension services, post-harvest infrastructure development, and strengthened market linkagesto translate technological adoption into lasting productivity and livelihood gains.