Determinants of Market Access among Vanilla Farmers in Kagera, Tanzania

The study aimed at examining determinants of market access among vanilla farmers in Kagera region of Tanzania. The study achieved specific objectives as follows; (i) to examine determinants for market access of vanilla produce in Kagera region and (ii) to determine the effect of market access determinants on market access of vanilla produce in Kagera region. The use of a mixed-methods approach was considered appropriate with integration of both qualitative and quantitative data whereas a sample of 385 vanilla farmers and key agricultural informants were included. Stratified sampling followed by simple random sampling and purposive sampling were adopted in selecting the sample selection. Data collection made use of structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Analysis of qualitative data was achieved using content analysis whereas application of logit model in determining the effect of market access determinants on market access of vanilla produce was considered relevant. The findings revealed that cooperative engagements, transportation infrastructure, access to credit and geographic factor positively and significantly influence market access (p<0.05). The study urges to the government, policymakers and partners in development to focus on infrastructure development, cooperative engagement and extending more credit facilities aiming at improving access to vanilla market and the economic well-being of vanilla farmers, thereby contributing to the sustainable development of the agricultural sector in Kagera.