Analysis of Factors Influencing the Commercialization of Tomato in Southern Ethiopia

This study aimed to identify the factors influencing the commercialization of tomato production among farmers in the Wolayita and Gamo zones of southern Ethiopia. The study utilized both primary and secondary data sources. Primary data were collected through a household survey using a structured questionnaire, employing multistage and purposive sampling techniques to select 160 tomato-producing households. Descriptive statistics and an econometric model were applied for data analysis. The descriptive statistics showed that the average commercialization of smallholder farmers in the study area was 67.7% indicating, that households were mainly producing for commercial purposes. The double hurdle model results indicated that the education level of the household head, family size, farming experience in tomato production, and frequency of extension contact were factors that significantly affected the market participation decision of tomato producers. On the other hand, the education level of the household head, frequency of extension contacts, and distance to the nearest market were factors that significantly affected the level of tomato commercialization. Therefore, policies aimed to improve the educational capacity of smallholder farmers through training, formal adult education programs, aimed at improving their knowledge and skills, improving infrastructural facilities, and providing frequent and effective extension services are recommended to improve the commercialization of tomato production.