Determinants of Smallholder Participation in Sesame Farming: Evidence from Chalinze District, Tanzania

Abstract

Increasing smallholder farmers' market participation in Tanzania’s agricultural industry is necessary for the sector to become more commercialized and raise their earnings and standard of living. One way to do this is by encouraging smallholder commercialization through the cultivation of cash crops. The primary justification for smallholder commercialization through cash crop production is that it can immediately raise household incomes. One excellent example in this respect is sesame in Tanzania, as its production has grown to become very popular in the coastal regions due to agroecological conditions, marketing arrangements and a high-return cash crop among households. Thus, this study was undertaken to explore the determinants influencing smallholder farmers participation in sesame farming in Chalinze District in Tanzania. A cross-sectional research design was employed in this study. Data were collected from 134 heads of households and key informants. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression were employed in data analysis due to their suitability in identifying significant associations and predictive factors. Findings indicate that socio-demographic factors, including age and marital status, significantly affect participation in sesame farming (p≤0.005). Economic factors, notably market access, input costs and availability of credit (p≤0.004) positively influence participation, while institutional support from extension services, favorable government policies and cooperative support (p≤0.008) are pivotal for increasing farmer participation. The study concludes that both socio-economic and institutional dimensions are responsible for enhancing sesame farming practices and productivity. These findings offer valuable insights for policymakers and development stakeholders aiming to boost rural incomes through targeted cash crop initiatives.