Impact of improved cassava cultivars on income generation and food security of women farmers in Mkuranga district, Tanzania

Purpose The study was conducted to investigate the impact of improved cassava cultivars on income generation and food security status of women farmers in Tanzania. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected from 300 respondents (150 with improved cassava cultivars and 150 without) who were selected using purposive and random sampling techniques. Double Difference, Descriptive Statistics were the analytical tools. The Cost-of-Calorie Index was used to measure food security status of the respondents. Findings Results show that Double Difference estimates indicated that the annual income of the women farmers with improved cassava cultivars increased by TZS 143,495.20 which was higher than that of the women farmers without improved cassava cultivars which increased by only TZS 58,500. There was a positive impact on income as a result of using the improved cassava cultivars. The Cost-of-Calorie Index showed that the food security line per adult equivalent per month was TZS 2,743.81 and TZS 2,076.69 for farmers with and without improved cassava cultivars respectively. About 66% of the women farmers with improved cassava cultivars and 33% of the women farmers without improved cassava cultivars were food secure. Policies should be formulated to encourage women farmers to adopt and sustain the use of improved cultivars of cassava. Research limitations/implications The research may be limited by its scope and generalizability, as it focuses on a specific geographic area (Mkuranga District) and demographic group (women farmers). Social implications The study shed light on the role of agricultural interventions in empowering women economically and enhancing their food security, potentially leading to improved social status and decision-making power within their households and communities. Originality/value The study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by emphasizing the benefits for women farmers when using improved cassava cultivars for income generation and food sufficiency.