Analysis of seed value chain in Tanzania: a case of sorghum and millet in Singida region

dc.contributor.authorMaseki, Salome Godwin
dc.date.accessioned2024-03-28T09:15:11Z
dc.date.available2024-03-28T09:15:11Z
dc.date.issued2010
dc.descriptionMasters Dissertation
dc.description.abstractThe general objective of this study was to identify value chain factors that affect the utilisation of improved sorghum and millet seeds in Tanzania. Data from sorghum and millet farmers were collected using a structured questionnaire, focus group discussions (FGDs) and interviews with key informant were conducted to solicit specific information from value chain actors including breeders from Ilonga (ARI), certifiers from TOSCI, multipliers from ASA. Msimba seed farm, stockists and traders from Singida. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and content analysis. Results show that there are many problems that affect seed production. certification and uptake. The main constraint faced by the seed breeders were low fund to undertake research. Constraints faced by multipliers were production shocks, especially weather variability that hampers. Farmers’ constraints were unwillingness to produce these crops as they were perceived to be hunger relief crops meant for poor people. The main problem facing certifiers was the overlap of activities (e.g. undertaking both field and seed inspections) that undermined efficiency, especially when understaffed. The main constraints faced by seed dealers were low purchase of improved seeds and poor transport infrastructure. Traders indicated that they lacked sufficient capital to engage effectively in seed trade and were equally affected by dealers’ problems. Many value chain actors were not aware of new market opportunities for sorghum utilisation and this information needs to be communicated to seed value chain actors including farmers. Farmers and extension providers have low levels of awareness and knowledge of the advantages of improved seed varieties and they need to receive training on the advantages and use of improved sorghum seed. An alternative to relying on the private sector for improved sorghum seed development and distribution may be to initiate community based seed production, which would reduce costs and improve availability.
dc.identifier.urihttps://www.suaire.sua.ac.tz/handle/123456789/5963
dc.language.isoen
dc.publisherSokoine University of Agriculture
dc.subjectSeed value chain
dc.subjectTanzania
dc.subjectSorghum
dc.subjectMillet
dc.subjectSingida region
dc.titleAnalysis of seed value chain in Tanzania: a case of sorghum and millet in Singida region
dc.typeThesis

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