Blockchain technology (BCT) has the potential to transform agricultural value chains by enhancing transparency, trust, and efficiency. However, adoption among smallholder farmers in developing regions remains limited. This study investigates the factors influencing BCT adoption and usage extent among barley farmers in Uganda’s Sebei sub-region, where BCT was introduced through the BanQu platform to improve the barley value chain. A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted with 490 respondents, including BCT adopters and non-adopters, selected through multistage sampling. Data were analyzed using the double hurdle model (DHM). The findings show that BCT adoption is enabled by BCT compatibility with existing systems, production costs, network stability, land size, training frequency, and phone ownership. Barriers include high training costs, initial investment, distance to barley buying centers, marital status, and insecure land tenure. Usage extent among adopters is influenced by education, age, sex, training frequency, group membership, distance to barley buying centers, and marketing costs. The study recommends subsidizing training costs, securing land tenure, decentralizing buying centers, and improving mobile networks. Integrating BCT training into extension services and promoting peer learning can boost adoption. These insights guide policymakers, development agencies, and agribusinesses in overcoming barriers and fostering inclusive agricultural development in sub-Saharan Africa.

Keywords: Barley agribusinesses, Barriers, Blockchain technology adoption, Double hurdle model, Eastern Uganda, Usage extent.