Drivers of collective action and innovation adoption in successful poultry farmer groups in Wakiso District in Uganda

Abstract

The study investigated drivers of collective action and innovation adoption (innovativeness) in successful poultry farmer groups (FGs) in Wakiso district, Uganda. The potential role of FGs as rural institutions for collective uptake of agricultural advisory services has been recognized. But literature on drivers of innovativeness in successful groups remains minimal or undocumented triggering a need to investigate factors involved. Results from eight Key Informant Interviews and six Focus Group Discussions indicate that FG innovativeness and success were a function of access to institutional knowledge, resources and adherence to regulations. The experience individuals in a group had and group involvement in diverse income generating activities contributed greatly to FG success. To enhance innovativeness and success, group access to resources and adherence to regulations must be emphasized. Additionally, individual experience and group involvement in diverse activities needs consideration.

Key words: Collective action, farmer groups, innovation adoption, poultry, Uganda, Wakiso