Mapping an Enabling Environment for the Adoption of Contract Farming: A Bottom-of-the-Pyramid Analysis of Factors Affecting Scaling in the Cotton Sector in Zambia

In Zambia, cotton contract farming has faced significant hurdles in scaling, primarily due to the complexities involved in engaging with smallholder farmers at the Bottom of the Pyramid. Therefore, this study examined the determinants of contract farming adoption enabling scaling in the sector. A researcher-administered survey was employed, targeting distributors who are key stakeholders and serve as intermediaries between multinational corporations and smallholder farmers. Using binary logistic regression analysis, the results reveal that localization, focus groups, collaboration with NGOs, leveraging local networks, co-creation, capacity building, and cooperation with traditional leaders are significant predictors of the adoption of contract farming. The study’s comprehensive analysis underscores the critical factors and enablers driving contract farming adoption and scaling in the cotton sector. These findings offer valuable insights and practical implications for broader use by policymakers, MNCs, NGOs, and other stakeholders involved in the cotton value chain, aiming to inform more inclusive and effective strategies for scaling contract farming in Zambia and the Sub-Saharan region.