Modern Agricultural Technology Adoption Among Tomato Farmers in Dhamar and Ibb Governorates, Yemen

Abstract

This study aims to assess the level of adoption of modern agricultural technologies among tomato farmers in Dhamar and Ibb governorates in the Republic of Yemen during the period 2023–2024, and to identify the key factors influencing this adoption. A social survey method was employed, and data were collected from a purposive sample of 150 farmers using a validated questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques through SPSS and Excel, including frequencies, percentages, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis. The results revealed that 78% of the farmers adopted improved hybrid varieties and modern irrigation networks, while 75% applied recommended fertilization practices. Despite the relatively high initial adoption rates, the continuity of use declined sharply, particularly for modern irrigation (5.1%) and integrated pest management (10%). The overall adoption level was found to be low, with 45.4% of respondents classified within the low-adoption category, compared to only 19.3% with a high level of adoption. The findings indicated statistically significant correlations at the 0.05 level between adoption degree and each of the following variables: production of improved varieties, fertilizer requirements, and water requirements. Conversely, no significant relationship was found between adoption and either disease incidence or general benefit from the technology. Multiple regression analysis showed that the studied technical variables explained only a small portion of the variation in adoption (R² = 0.035), suggesting that additional socio-economic, educational, and extension-related factors may play a stronger role. The study concludes that adoption of modern technologies among tomato farmers remains limited and faces several constraints. It recommends strengthening agricultural extension services, providing financial and technical support, enhancing farmer training programs, and improving access to resources in order to increase technology adoption and ensure sustainable improvement in tomato productivity in Yemen.