Stakeholders’ Perceptions of Agronomic Iodine Biofortification: A SWOT-AHP Analysis in Northern Uganda

Nutrients

Hans De Steur¹  Xavier Gellynck¹  Walter Odongo¹  Solomon Olum¹  Collins Okello²  Duncan Ongeng³  Dominic Webale⁴ 

[1] Department of Agricultural Economics, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;Department of Biosystems Engineering, Gulu University, P.O. Box 166, Gulu, Uganda;Department of Food Science and Postharvest Technology, Gulu University, P.O. Box 166, Gulu, Uganda;Department of Rural Development and Agribusiness, Gulu University, P.O. Box 166, Gulu, Uganda;

关键词: agronomic biofortification;    iodine deficiency;    stakeholder analysis;    analytical hierarchy process;    SWOT analysis;    Uganda;   

DOI  :  10.3390/nu10040407

来源: DOAJ

【 摘 要 】

Agronomic biofortification (i.e., the application of fertilizer to elevate micronutrient concentrations in staple crops) is a recent strategy recommended for controlling Iodine Deficiency Disorders (IDDs). However, its success inevitably depends on stakeholders’ appreciation and acceptance of it. By taking Northern Uganda as a case, this study aimed to capture and compare the perceptions of seven key stakeholder groups with respect to agronomic iodine biofortification. Therefore, we employed a SWOT (Strength, Weaknesses, Opportunities & Threats) analysis in combination with an Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). Findings show that stakeholders (n = 56) are generally positive about agronomic iodine biofortification in Uganda, as its strengths and opportunities outweighed weaknesses and threats. Cultural acceptance and effectiveness are considered the most important strengths while the high IDD prevalence rate and the availability of iodine deficient soils are key opportunities for further developing agronomic iodine biofortification. Environmental concerns about synthetic fertilizers as well as the time needed to supply iodine were considered crucial weaknesses. The limited use of fertilizer in Uganda was the main threat. While this study provides insight into important issues and priorities for iodine biofortification technology in Uganda, including differences in stakeholder views, the application of the SWOT-AHP method will guide future researchers and health planners conducting stakeholder analysis in similar domains.

【 授权许可】

Unknown