Impact of the Grassroots Participation on Adoption and Distribution of Improved Onions Seeds - Jebel Marra Project

Abstract

This research is an attempt to assess the impact of grassroots participation on the adoption and diffusion of agricultural innovations packages (especially improved onions seeds) at Jebel Marra Rural Development project, Central Darfur State- Sudan. Moreover to assess the effect of personal characteristics: mainly: education and social status on the adoption of innovations, In addition to agricultural extension Services and programme. The Study selected Jebel Marra area and focusing on the area around Zalingei as the head quarter of the project. The presence of the same target community previously settled. But now are internally displaced persons (IDPs), and practice agricultural process by different methods. Number (200) was selected as respondent’s farmers. Stratified sample with geographic direction and accidental by individuals 10% from the total studied population, which amounted approximately (2000) farmers in the state level. Furthermore the study area was divided into three sectors as follows: Zalingei, Wadisalih and Jebel Marra. Then the primary information is gathered to fulfill the study requirements through interviews and field visits to farmers' fields, with the use of questionnaire designed and reviewed for that purpose. The secondary information obtained from several sources related to the subject of study. Although statistical methods to analyze the information: statistical packages for social sciences (SPSS) are used, included frequencies and percentages. The study realized that two thirds of the respondents in displacement camps and agricultural lands within the lease systems, limiting the participation of women in agricultural work. The study also finds out that there is especially: in the area of cultivation of onions agricultural expansion despite, the high cost of the means of production such as “improved seeds, irrigation tools and agriculture mechanisms. The study also found that farmers are aware and skillful enough to continue the transfer of technologies as Agricultural Knowledge and Information System (AKIS).This newly acquired knowledge and expertise through their participation in the project activities in the former resettlement sites or origin homeland (villages). The study recommended that: continuous support for Jebel Marra Rural Development Project. Promotion of agricultural extension services to expand the area of coverage, and strive to provide improved seeds locally, as well as providing the means for irrigation aids and pest control. Development of good relationship between local, regional and international funding agencies.