Abstract:
Despite Government efforts to invest in and modernize the agricultural inputs sector,
smallholder farmers still encounter counterfeit inputs, particulary maize seeds. The study
aimed at analyzing role of agro-dealers in inputs distribution and the counterfeit
challenges to smallholder farmers: A case of maize seeds, in Maswa District specifically
(i)to determine demographic characteristics of agro-dealers in the study area(ii) to
determine the distribution chain of improved maize seeds from agro-dealers to
smallholder farmers,(iii)to examine regulations which guarantee good distribution of
improved maize seeds in the district (iv)to determine challenges facing agro-dealers in
selling improved maize seeds in the study area and (v) analyze agro-input dealers’
characteristics in relation to distribution of improved maize seeds in the district. The study
population included all agro-dealers in the district with 51 respondents. Questionnaire,
focus group discussions (FGD) and key informants interviews were used to collect data.
Descriptive statistics such as frequencies, and percentages were computed to facilitate
analysis of quantitative data. The study found that, most of the agro dealers have no
demonstration plots, there is unevenly distribution of agro dealers’ in the district and most
of the agro shops were not regularly inspected by government officials. The study
established further that there is the problem of counterfeit agro inputs and the methods
used in verifying the genuineness of the maize seeds seems to be helpless. Agro dealers
shared good agronomic practices to smallholder farmers. This study recommended Maswa
District council to ensure authorized distributors of inputs, agro dealers establish
demonstration plots, plan and establish regular farmers’ forum. Lastly, it recommends the
use of mobile phones technology to verify the genuineness of the maize seeds.
