Abstract:
This study was conducted at South Ari Woreda, South Omo Zone, Southern Nations,
Nationalities and Peoples Regional State of Ethiopia. Due to low level adoption of
improved (BH-140) maize variety and different constraints, the maize production and
productivity is low. The aim of this study was to identify the determinants of adoption
improved (BH-140) maize variety and its management practice in the study area. From
the total 2403 households found in four sampled kebeles, 142 sample households were
selected by using systematic random sampling technique taking into account proportional
to size to the population procedure. Primary data were collected from survey
questionnaires, key informants interview and focus group discussions whereas,
Secondary data were obtained from the books, journals, published and unpublished
documents. Data were analyzed using SPSS.version.16, descriptive statistics, Chi-square
and t-test and logistic regression (binary logit) model. The descriptive statics result of the
total respondent’s 48.59% were non-adopters of the improved (BH-140) maize variety,
while 51.41 % of respondents were adopters improved (BH-140) maize variety. The status
of management practices were not carried out as appropriate level as recommended for
maize production due weak extension advisory service and lack of close supervision with
farmers. Farmers had preferred (BH-140) maize variety over the local one is due to its
high yielding, early maturing, Disease resistance, price advantage, storability and market
demand. The chi-square and t-test result indicated use of credit, contact with extension
agent, experience, TLU, income, sex, education, Attitude, Feilday, demonstration and
training were significance relation with adoption of improved(BH-140) maize variety.
Results of the binary logistic result indicate that from 14 explanatory variables, 8 of them
education, contact with extension agents, sex, Livestock, Income, demonstration credit
were significant and positively affect adoption of improve maize technologies; whereas,
distance from market center significant but negatively affect the adoption. Based on this
finding, the study suggests that training should be given on pest management practice by
the concerned bodies for maize grower farmers. Agricultural sector experts should be
give more attention to support and supervision for DA- farmers contact. Attention should
