Influence of exogenous variables on interaction of small scale farmers with other actors in agricultural projects: a case of RIPAT-SUA project in Morogoro region, Tanzania
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Date
2021
Authors
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Publisher
TAJAS
Abstract
Exogenous variables have the potential to influence interactions but have received little
attention in the literature. Guided by Ostrom’s Institutional Analysis and Development (IAD)
framework and social exchange theory (SET), the study described the patterns of farmers-other
actors’ interactions, and determined exogenous factors influencing interactions using RIPAT-SUA
project as a case study. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected through questionnaire
survey and Focus Group Discussion (FGD)/key informant interview respectively. Multiple
regression and content analysis were used to analyse quantitative and qualitative data respectively.
Farmers-other actors’ interactions in agricultural projects increase with a decrease in distance
from the market. Diversity of crops/livestock produced and the number of resources shared by
actors had statistically significant influence on interactions. The RIPAT approach plays a crucial
role in shaping the interactions; it influences the type of actors the farmers interact with and the
pattern of interactions. The findings support the IAD and the SET, which, respectively, postulate
that biophysical conditions (in this case proximity to market), and cost and rewards (in this case
resources shared) are driving forces for farmers’ interactions. Rather than referring to it just as
cost and rewards as the SET does, it should be explicit that both material and social benefits are
important in shaping interactions. The study recommends ensuring that agricultural interventions
are rewarding to farmers. Designing and implementation of agricultural projects ought to employ
the RIPAT approach to spur fruitful interactions.
Description
Conference Proceeding
Keywords
Interactions, RIPAT, Small-scale farmers, Actors, Projects