Socioeconomic factors influencing adoption of climate-smart agriculture technologies by smallholder farmers in semi-arid areas, Tanzania

Climate change poses significant challenges to agricultural productivity and food security, particularly in developing countries where agriculture remains a critical livelihood source. In response, climate-smart agriculture technologies (CSATs) have emerged as vital tools to enhance resilience and sustainability in farming systems. This study investigates the socioeconomic factors influencing the adoption of CSATs, with a focus on maize-common bean intercropping systems among smallholder farmers in the semi-arid districts of Singida Rural, Babati, and Kondoa in Tanzania. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining a structured questionnaire survey with 240 smallholder farmers, focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and document reviews to ensure data triangulation. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression through the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The results indicate that several socioeconomic variables significantly influence the adoption of maize-common bean intercropping as a CSAT. These include gender, age, level of education, household size, farm size, access to extension services, and availability of agricultural credit. Male-headed households and farmers with better access to information and resources were more likely to adopt CSATs. The findings underscore the need for policy frameworks and development interventions that address these critical socioeconomic barriers to adoption. Strengthening institutional support, improving access to extension and credit services, and enhancing farmer education and awareness are recommended to foster widespread adoption of CSATs. Ultimately, promoting inclusive adoption strategies to enhance agricultural resilience, improve food security, and contribute to sustainable rural livelihoods in Tanzania’s semi-arid regions. published by the International Journal of Agronomy and Agricultural Research (IJAAR)