FACTORS INFLUENCING PARTICIPATION OF SMALLHOLDER GREEN GRAM FARMERS IN WAREHOUSE RECEIPT SYSTEM IN MISUNGWI DISTRICT, TANZANIA
Purpose of the Study: This study examined the factors influencing smallholder green gram farmers’ participation in the Warehouse Receipt System (WRS) in Misungwi District, Tanzania, focusing on access to market information, distance from farms to warehouses, and selling price expectations.
Methodology: A cross-sectional survey design was used, targeting 172 registered smallholder farmers selected through simple random sampling from a population of 312. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed with descriptive statistics, correlation, and multiple regression techniques.
Findings: All three factors significantly influenced farmers’ participation in the WRS. Selling price expectation had the strongest effect on participation (β = 0.550, p < 0.001), followed by access to market information (β = 0.203, p < 0.001) and distance from farms to warehouses (β = 0.191, p = 0.001). The results indicate that farmers who expect higher prices, have better access to reliable market information, and are located closer to warehouses are more likely to participate in the system. These findings highlight that economic incentives, information access, and logistical considerations are critical determinants of WRS adoption among smallholder green gram farmers.
Originality: Unlike prior studies focusing on coffee or grains, this research provides empirical evidence on determinants of WRS participation specifically for green gram farmers in Tanzania, using a mixed-methods approach for a comprehensive understanding of socio-economic factors.
Practical Implications: The findings suggest that improving information dissemination, strategically locating warehouses, providing transport support, and ensuring transparent pricing mechanisms can increase WRS participation among smallholder farmers.
Social Implications: Enhanced WRS participation can improve farmers’ income, food security, and community economic resilience by promoting structured marketing and reducing post-harvest losses.
Keywords: Warehouse Receipt System, Green Gram, Smallholder Farmers, Market Information, Distance to Warehouse, Selling Price Expectation, Tanzania
