Abstract:
Sorghum is an important crop in Mieso Woreda. It has been producing traditionally using
oxen plowing, sowing by broadcasting and threshing by animals. The grain is used for human
consumption and the stover for animal fodder. Using improved high yielding crop varieties
for agro pastoral households remains an option to increase agricultural production and
ensure food security in developing countries. This study investigated improved Sorghum
varieties adoption by agro pastoral households' in Mieso woreda. The aim of this study was to
determine the factors that influence the adoption of improved Sorghum varieties in Mieso
Woreda of Oromia Region. Totally, 160 sample households (100 adopters and 60
non-adopters) selected from six kebeles of the Woreda. Were interviewed using structured
interview schedule. Qualitative data were collected using group discussion and field
observation. Data analysis were done using Chi-square, t-test, logit and stepwise linear
regression econometrics models were employed to analyze the relative influence of different
variables on probability and extent of adoption of improved Sorghum varieties, using a
software called STATA 12. The results of the econometric model indicated that family size,
Education level, Number of active labor of the household, attending field day programs,
Frequency of contact with extension agent and Access to information and Number of livestock
had found positive and significant influence at one percent probability level on adapter.
Where as, age of household head and Number of dependent member of the household had
negative influence on adoption of improved Sorghum varieties. The result of stepwise linear
regression indicated that, Farmland size, Education level and Frequency of contact with
extension agent had positive and significant influence on the extent to use improved Sorghum
varieties. The findings of the study imply that strengthening extension service, improving
information access, frequenting field demonstration and increasing the engagements of
formal education would significantly enhance the probabilities of using improved Sorghum
varieties.
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