Abstract:
Traditionally many NGOs have been supporting farmers to increase agricultural production, but farmers are facing another set of challenges especially of markets and marketing. Farmers are now expected to produce for market, but they lack access to reliable markets. Based on this ground, the study was conducted in communities of Mkuranga District to assess the role of NGOs in lobbying and advocacy for market access by smallholder farmers. The study objectives were: (i) to establish the challenges faced by smallholder farmers in accessing markets, (ii) to identify NGOs working in Mkuranga District in the field of agricultural development, (iii) to examine the role of NGOs in lobbying and advocating for market access by smallholder farmers, and (iv) to assess challenges encountered by NGOs in lobbying and advocating for market access by smallholder farmers in the study area. One hundred and twenty respondents were interviewed. Data were analysed using both qualitative and quantitative techniques. Binary logistic regression model was used to examine the relationship between challenges which smallholder farmers face and market access. The study revealed that smallholder farmers in Mkuranga District are facing variable challenges which prevent them from accessing markets. Seven NGOs were found to be performing different roles concerning agriculture development issues but inefficiently, due to several challenges they are facing. It is recommended that: NGOs should act on behalf of farmers to put pressure on policy makers. On the other hand Mkuranga District Council should make favourable environment for NGOs to efficiently perform. Farmers were recommended to join farmers organizations and credit institutions. More research should be done on both internal and external challenges affecting smallholder farmers in accessing markets for their produce. Ministry of Agriculture Food and Cooperatives should link with the Ministry of Livestock Development and Fisheries and NGOs in implementing agricultural projects
