Stakeholders’ Perceptions of Agronomic Iodine Biofortification: A SWOT-AHP Analysis in Northern Uganda
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Date
2018-03-24
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
MDPI
Abstract
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.
Description
Keywords
agronomic biofortification, iodine deficiency, stakeholder analysis, analytical hierarchy process, SWOT analysis, Uganda
Citation
Olum, S., Gellynck, X., Okello, C., Webale, D., Odongo, W., Ongeng, D., & De Steur, H. (2018). Stakeholders’ perceptions of agronomic iodine biofortification: a SWOT-AHP analysis in Northern Uganda. Nutrients, 10(4), 407.