Factors Influencing the Adoption of Sasso Dual-Purpose Chicken Breed Among Poultry Farmers in Mbarara City South Division, Mbarara City

Abstract

This study assessed the adoption of the Sasso dual-purpose chicken breed among poultry farmers in Mbarara City South, guided by three objectives: to assess adoption trends, to examine factors affecting adoption, and to explore the potential benefits and challenges associated with adoption. A mixed-methods research design was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. Data were collected from 118 poultry farmers using structured questionnaires, supplemented by key informant interviews with 5 extension workers and 5 chick suppliers. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were analysed thematically using R software version 4.6.0. The study was guided by the Diffusion of Innovations Theory, the Technology Acceptance Model, and the Theory of Planned Behaviour. The findings revealed that adoption of the Sasso breed was 63.6%, significantly higher than the national average of approximately 15%. A chi-square test confirmed that the proportion of adopters was significantly higher than that of non-adopters, χ²(1, N = 118) = 8.68, p = 0.003. Fellow farmers (72.9%) emerged as the primary source of information. Disease resistance was the primary motivation for adoption (66.7%), followed by ease of management (28.0%) and better meat quality (25.3%). The factors that would most influence future adoption decisions were availability of quality chicks (70.0%) and more market demand (66.0%), followed by increased profitability (56.0%). The study concludes that while adoption of the Sasso breed has reached a notable level in Mbarara City South, persistent barriers including high initial costs, limited access to quality chicks, inadequate training, and low egg production continue to constrain adoption and performance. Recommendations include strengthening extension services, establishing accessible credit schemes, implementing subsidy programs for chicks and feed, improving chick multiplication and distribution systems, strengthening veterinary services, and utilising community-based approaches including farmer field schools and demonstration plots.