Innovation on hold: climate-smart livestock technology adoption among small-scale dairy farmers in Tanga, Tanzania

Climate change poses significant challenges to Tanzania’s dairy sector. It increases climate variability, disease prevalence and fodder scarcity. These challenges threaten livestock productivity and the livelihoods of small-scale farmers. In this context, climate-smart livestock technologies (CSLTs) are increasingly promoted. They are considered a means to enhance productivity, resilience and environmental sustainability. The study aimed to investigate the influence of input market barriers on the adoption of CSLTs among small-scale dairy cattle farmers in Tanga, Tanzania. The study was grounded in the Random Utility Framework. It employed a cross-sectional survey design. Data were collected from 302 randomly selected farmers using a structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and a probit regression model. The findings revealed that adoption of CSLTs is positively and significantly associated with the number of dairy cattle owned, breed type, awareness of CSLTs and access to information. Adoption is also positively associated with the availability of veterinary services, vaccination services and liquidity for purchasing concentrates. Conversely, adoption is negatively associated with off-farm employment and engagement in crop cultivation. It is also negatively associated with constraints in accessing artificial insemination services and limited availability of concentrates. The study concludes that adoption of CSLTs among small-scale dairy farmers is largely constrained by input market inefficiencies and unequal access to essential services. The results highlight the importance of improving the availability and reliability of veterinary services, artificial insemination, vaccination and livestock inputs, particularly concentrates. Strengthening farmers’ access to timely information and financial liquidity is also critical for supporting adoption decisions.