Exploring factors affecting vermiculture and vermicompost technology adoption in selected districts of North Shewa Zone, Oromia

This study investigates the socio-demographic and socio-economic factors influencing the application of vermiculture and vermicompost technologies in Oromia’s North Shewa Zone seven districts 200 households were selected using stratified purposive sampling and snowball sampling. Heckman’s Two-Stage Model addresses the potential selection bias with regard to adoption decision. The initial stage (Selection Equation Probit Model) offers factors influencing the adoption probability, while the second phase (Outcome Equation OLS Model) quantifies the adoption degree among adopters. Results indicate that socio-demographic factors such as education level and household age are strong predictors of adoption decisions. Older head households have decreased probabilities of adoption, as they resist adopting new technologies. More education levels, however, are positively correlated with adoption, with a coefficient of 0.102 (p < 0.001). Socio-economic factors are also at play; farm experience within the household and extension services access have positive influences on adoption, with coefficients of 0.090 (p = 0.004) and 0.115 (p < 0.001), respectively. Resource availability is another determinant that is very crucial. Feedstock and compost material availability have positive effects on adoption, with a coefficient of 0.065 (p = 0.002) and 0.070 (p = 0.005), respectively. Negative effect comes from restricted awareness about vermiculture, evident in the coefficient of -0.140 (p < 0.001). Perceived market demand is positively affecting, with a coefficient of 0.085 (p < 0.001), and it is evident that incentives are what drive the economy. The significance of the inverse Mills ratio (λ = 0.120, p = 0.032) also supports the presence of selection bias, thus the use of Heckman’s model. The findings support the significance of targeted educational intervention and resource support in increasing technology adoption. Narrowing awareness gaps and access to existing resources are critical to unlocking sustainable agriculture. To enhance vermiculture adoption in North Shewa Zone, policies should focus on education, age-sensitive outreach, stronger extension services, and improved access to resources like feedstock and compost. Additionally, raising awareness, leveraging experienced farmers, stimulating market demand, and offering adoption incentives are vital for promoting sustainable agriculture.