Farmer Mobilization through Agricultural Cooperatives and Farmers Welfare in Western Uganda

Abstract

This study was initiated to investigate roles (services) of agricultural cooperatives towards farmer’s welfare in Western Uganda. The general objective of the study was to assess the role of agricultural cooperatives towards promoting farmer’s welfare in Western Uganda. Out of the target population, the sample size was 196 respondents, purposive and simple random sampling were utilized to select respondents. The study employed cross sectional research design that used qualitative and quantitative methods in data collection. Questionnaires were used to obtain data from farmers and interview guide was used to get data from key informants. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The key findings of the study indicated that there was a significant effect of farmer mobilization through group formation, resources access in terms of inputs that has resulted into increased outputs which has led to increased incomes and thus improved farmers’ welfare. From the study, it was recommended that cooperatives should enhance the members benefits in order motivate them to remain as members but also attract non-members to join the cooperatives if their welfare is to be improved. Sustainably through agriculture as a business activity.