Determinants and Intensity of Adoption of Hot Pepper, French Beans and Okra in the Banana-Coffee Farming System in Uganda

Purpose: This study explores the shift among Ugandan smallholder farmers, traditionally reliant on banana-coffee systems, toward cultivating high-value crops (HVCs) like Hot Pepper, French Beans, and Okra, which offer strong economic potential. Methodology: A cross-sectional survey of 522 households (273 adopters, 249 non-adopters) was conducted using income quartile stratification and binary and ordered logistic regression to assess adoption patterns and socio-economic influences. Findings: Findings show that HVC adopters have significantly higher income and expenditure, and are concentrated in upper income quartiles. Adoption is positively linked to factors such as; education level of the most educated child, access to agricultural training and credit, frequent engagement with local leaders, strong village networks, and overall household income. Adoption intensity increases with involvement in agricultural projects, hired labor, off-farm income, and land access, but declines with older household heads and road remoteness. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study recommends promoting hired labor due to the labor-intensive nature of HVCs and improving access to credit to support inclusive agricultural transformation and enhance smallholder investment in high-value crops.