Livelihood levels of green banana actors along the value chain in Moshi and Meru Districts, Tanzania

Abstract

The study explored the livelihood levels of green banana actors along the value chain in Moshi and Meru Districts in Tanzania. Descriptive statistics (means, percentages, frequencies, and tables) were used to analyse the actors’ capital sources, activities, capabilities, and assets owned. Binary logistics regression was used to compare the relationships between actors’ capabilities and assets owned. A convenient sampling technique was used to select samples of green banana producers, collectors, processors, wholesalers, and retailers. The sample size of Farmers was 118, Collectors 96, Processors 46, Wholesalers 112, and Retailers 88 for the two districts. Semi-structured questionnaires were used to interview banana value chain actors to obtain primary data. The study found that the actors have different sources of capital. 94 out of 407 respondents (23.10%) relied on banks for their capital needs. A significant majority of respondents, 288 out of 407 (70.76%), relied on their assets as a capital source. The findings of livelihood capabilities show that the majority of households (69.53%) fall under the "Low" income level. On average, the surveyed households own 1 house with an average value of 18,300,000 TZS. Again, each surveyed household owns 8 acres of land with an average combined value of 89,900,000 TZS to assets owned by banana value chain actors. In conclusion, it was found that there are several areas where livelihood capabilities can be enhanced. The study recommends that the actors should be assisted by Local Government Authorities to have different sources of capital. Most of them sell their personal savings, investments, or other tangible assets to fund their ventures. The study also recommends that the actors should focus more on livestock and land ownership since they are significant in both communication and business running capabilities.