Determinants of Smallholder Farmers’ Participation in Cashew Nut Production in Lindi and Mtwara Regions, Tanzania

Abstract

Cashew nut is one of the main sources of income for smallholder farmers in Mtwara and Lindi Regions.  It contributes almost 7.1 % of Tanzania’s GDP and hires more than 2.1 million people along its value chain. However, despite its importance, the determinants of smallholder farmers’ participation in cashew nut production are yet to be established. This paper, therefore, attempts to establish factors influencing small holder farmers’ participation in cashew nut production. A cross-sectional research design which utilized a mixed methods approach was used for collection and analysis of data. Multistage sampling was applied to select a sample of 384 respondents from whom quantitative data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Moreover, focus group discussions and key informant interviews were employed in collecting qualitative data. Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression were applied for analysis of quantitative data while content analysis was used in the analysis of qualitative data. It was found that, out of fifteen variables that were tested at p < 0.05, fourteen were significant. Household size, access to extension service, and access to market information were significantly positive while age, sex and co-operative membership were significantly negative. For non-participation in cashew nut production, it was found that, out of fifteen variables that were studied, eight were significant. That is age, sex, education, income, farm ownership status, farm size, price and co-operative membership. Gender discriminating practices and less participation of young people in the cashew nut business are clearly evident in the cashew nut value chain. Further, access to market information, extension services and membership to cooperatives are critical determinants of participation in cashew nut production. It is recommended that leaders should increase smallholder farmers’ access to extension services, market information and encourage them to join co-operatives. Policy actions should be directed to farmers to upgrade their socio-economic characteristics by ensuring more women and youth are involved in cashew value chain.