The Role of Community Participation in Preventing Theft of Agricultural Produce in Kihurra B Village, Mabaale Town Council, Kagadi District

Abstract

This study on the roles of community participation in preventing the theft of agricultural produce in Kihurra B village, Mabaale Town Council, Kagadi District aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of community participation in reducing theft of agricultural produce in Kihurra B Village. The focus was put on domestic animals and crops since these are the major farm produce from agriculture sector in Uganda. The study utilized a descriptive study design in which qualitative data was collected. The target population included men, women, and youth, with a sample size of 143 household. The stakeholders included; community members of Kihurra Village, extension workers, community leaders and other relevant stakeholders including LCIII and the Officer in Charge (OC) Mabaale Police Post. The community members were selected using simple random sampling. Various data collection methods such as interviews, questionnaire administration and observation were employed to gather information on community strategies. The study in Kihurra B Village found that agricultural theft is mainly driven by inadequate law enforcement (35%), youth idleness (63%), socio-economic factors like unemployment and substance abuse. The main measure for theft prevention is sharing homes with livestock (57%), which offers moderate deterrence. However, more effective measures, such as patrolling and fencing are lacking. Community participation in preventing theft is rated poor by 63% of respondents, indicating insufficient engagement. Suggestions for improvement include better law enforcement, increased patrolling, education, and building animal shelters. While some strategies are in place, the study calls a need for a coordinated, multifaceted approach to reduce theft effectively.