AN ETHICAL EVALUATION OF THE IMPACT OF MODERN AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES IN ARUA DISTRICT: THE CASE OF VURRA COUNTY

Abstract

This research ethically evaluated the impact of modern agricultural practices in Arua district. Specific objectives were to explain the major agricultural public policies upon which agricultural practices are anchored, to examine the impact of modern agricultural practices promoted and to advance normative ethical strategies to promote safe modern agricultural practices. A case study design was adopted with a qualitative research approach. Data was collected from forty-eight (48) farmers and five (5) key informants. Data was analyzed using thematic method. Findings showed that agricultural public policies upon which modern agricultural practices are anchored are in place, modern agricultural practices present positive impact and a range ethical considerations in Vurra county where agriculture is predominantly small-scale, and subsistence based. Normative ethical strategies to promote safe modern agricultural practices are also in place. It was concluded that agricultural public policies for farmers in Vurra county might not be regarded as modest attributes that characterize their social, economic and general well-being but an essential indicator of the zeal to transcend agriculture and the shift from subsistence farming to commercial and value addition production. It was recommended that farmers in Vurra county should embrace modern agricultural practice with ethics in mind to ensure that increased agricultural productivity and technological advancements do not jeopardize the good intentions and result in harm to environment, human health, and social equity in Vurra county. This can be achieved through tailored community sensitization and training of local leaders in Vurra county with the support from the Government of the Republic of Uganda and other to ensure sustainable safe modern agricultural practices for food security, human and environmental well-being.