FOCUS AREA OF MARKET SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT (MSD) APPROACH AND FACTOR AFFECTING ITS SUCCESS IN GAMBELLA REGION, ETHIOPIA

The successful implementation of Market System Development approach success depends on various factors. The main objective of this study was to assessing factor affecting market system development approach success in Gambella Region state southwest Ethiopia. Combinations of descriptive and explanatory research designs with both qualitative and quantitative research approaches were employed. Two stage sampling procedures with combination of purposive and simple random sampling procedures were used to select 285 sample household heads for the study. Household survey questionnaires, key informant interview, focus group discussion documentary analysis and field observation were used to collect the data. Binary regression model was used to identify determinant factors of market system development approach success in the study area. The appropriate software package that is used for data analysis was SPSS Version 26. All of the questionnaires were filled and returned successfully with the response rate of 100%. The findings of the study showed that the focus area of MSD approach success were agriculture, natural resource conservation, livelihood diversification, and micro finance. The binary regression model analysis was found to be statistically significant (Chi-square = 57.841, p < 0.001) and demonstrated strong explanatory power with a Nagelkerke R Square value of 0.545. Key findings reveal that gender, age, family size, and access to credit are significant predictors of MSD approach success, while the regulatory environment and public-private partnerships also play crucial roles. The Hosmer and Lemeshow Test (p = 0.536) confirmed the model's goodness-of-fit, indicating reliable predictions. These results underscore the importance of targeted interventions that address socio-economic disparities, enhance market infrastructure, and strengthen institutional support to maximize the effectiveness of the MSD approach in Gambella. The results indicate that the MSD approach success is generally seen as effective in enhancing market access, empowering women, and promoting social equity. However, areas such as climate-smart agriculture, innovation, and the integration of marginalized groups may require additional focus to achieve more comprehensive outcomes. The challenges identified in infrastructure development and policy advocacy further highlight opportunities for strengthening the approach's impact in these critical areas. Develop and promote market information systems that provide farmers with timely and accurate data on prices, demand, and market trends. This would enable farmers to make informed decisions and better engage with market opportunities.