International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Fouad Mahmoud Zoba’a, Maher Saleh Suleiman and Suad Ibrahim Al-Obeid

abstract
This research aims to identify the determinants of soybean cultivation adoption from the perspective of farmers in Kirkuk Governorate, Iraq, and to study the relationship between the magnitude of these determinants and some of the farmers' personal, social, and economic characteristics. The researcher used a descriptive-analytical approach and relied on a questionnaire whose data was collected from a sample of 361 farmers representing various areas of the governorate. The results showed that the majority of respondents (79.78%) believe that the magnitude of the determinants facing soybean cultivation is significant, tending towards a moderate level, reflecting the existence of real obstacles that limit the adoption of this strategic crop. The most significant determinants facing farmers were identified as a lack of trust in government agencies, weak financial and technical support, difficulty in marketing the crop, and the scarcity of local markets. The results also revealed that the limited availability of extension services and the weak responsiveness of agricultural extension agents to farmers' needs are among the most prominent institutional obstacles. Statistical analysis showed a significant correlation between the magnitude of the determinants and some of the respondents' personal characteristics, such as educational level, farm size, agricultural experience, and inclination towards soybean cultivation. The research concluded with the importance of strengthening trust between farmers and government agencies, providing stimulating financial and marketing support, and activating specialized guidance programs for the soybean crop, which contributes to raising the level of farmers’ adoption of it and achieving sustainable agricultural development in Kirkuk Governorate.