Risk-related perceptions for rural household decisions to grow Vitamin A biofortified sweetpotatoes in Uganda

Abstract

The vitamin A bio-fortified sweetpotato, commonly known as the Orange-Fleshed
Sweetpotato (OFSP) is an important food for fighting vitamin A deficiency in Uganda,
particularly in rural households, although its use remains low. This study investigated
the role of risk perceptions in rural households’ decisions to grow OFSP. Data were
derived from a cross-sectional questionnaire survey of 341 male and female household
heads randomly selected from two rural districts of Uganda. Scaling and factor analyses
verified data reliability and construct validity, after which multiple regression analyses
tested hypothesized relationships. Gender differences were tested. Results found that
risk perceptions encouraged rural household heads to grow the OFSP (F=3.937, p<.001,
Adjusted R2= 0.102). Further, perceived risks were motivators and perceived effectiveness
of control might be the feasible path to sustained cultivation. Although male and female
farmers differed, a stronger estimation was obtained when the entire sample was tested.
In sum, information dissemination programmes targeting household heads using media
campaigns should disseminate messages to at-risk households regarding the feasibility of
OFSP cultivation and consumption to reduce vitamin A deficiency.