The role of matrilineal kinship in resources allocation, decision making and marketing of spice products in Morogoro region Tanzania
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Date
2025-04-29
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
SSRG International Journal of Humanities and Social Science
Abstract
In some regions of Tanzania, including Morogoro, spice production is a significant economic activity. However,
its full potential may not be realised due to the complex socio-cultural kinship that influences resource allocation and
marketing strategies. Specifically, the role of matrilineal kinship in these processes has not been adequately explored. While
matrilineal societies may have distinct patterns of resource ownership, decision-making, and distribution, their impact on
the management of agricultural resources and commercialization of spice products remains under-researched. This study
seeks to fill this gap by examining how matrilineal traditions affect the allocation of resources in cultivating spices and
marketing its products in the Morogoro region of Tanzania. A mixed-methods approach was used to collect data.
Quantitative data were collected through structured questionnaires to 121 respondents obtained through the probability
sampling technique. Qualitative data were collected through focus group discussions from two groups, one group of 16
participants in each village, and key informant interviews with one Extension Officer and two village leaders. Findings
reveal that while matrilineal systems grant women certain rights, such as land inheritance, decision-making remains male-
dominated, particularly in critical aspects such as land use and sales of bulk spices. Household decision-making tends to be
collaborative, but men often retain the final authority. The study concludes that gender dynamics continue to shape key
decisions regarding land use and the bulk sale of spice products. The findings underscore the complexity of gender roles
within matrilineal societies, where women’s rights may not fully translate into control over economic resources.
Description
Journal article
Keywords
Decision Making, Marketing and Spice Products, Matrilineal Kinship, Resource Allocation