Determinants of Agricultural Technology Adoption in Urban Vegetable Production: A Case Study of Chelencko and Kullubi Cities

Urban agriculture plays a critical role in enhancing food security and household income, particularly among low-income urban residents in Ethiopia. However, limited empirical evidence exists regarding the adoption of agricultural technologies in urban vegetable production. This study investigates the determinants influencing the adoption of fertilizers and pesticides among urban vegetable farmers in Chelencko and Kullubi towns of the Meta District, East Hararghe Zone, Ethiopia. Using a cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from 232 households through structured questionnaires. The study employed descriptive statistics and a multinomial logit model to analyze factors affecting technology adoption decisions. Results revealed that education level, farming experience, access to training, extension services, off/non-farm income, and credit availability significantly increased the likelihood of adopting fertilizers, pesticides, or both. Conversely, larger household sizes, high dependency ratios, and higher soil fertility were negatively associated with adoption. Households that adopted both technologies demonstrated significantly higher income levels compared to non-adopters. Key constraints identified included limited access to arable land, agricultural inputs, and extension support, as well as pest and disease challenges. The study concludes that socio-economic and institutional factors play a decisive role in urban agricultural technology adoption. Enhancing access to training, extension services, and credit, alongside addressing input supply constraints, can improve technology uptake. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and development practitioners aiming to promote sustainable urban agriculture and improve urban food systems in Ethiopia.