FACTORS AFFECTING PRODUCTIVITY AND LABOR USE ON SMALL-SCALE MAIZE PRODUCTION IN TANZANIA

Abstract

This study examines factors influencing maize productivity and labor use among small-scale farmers in Tanzania, highlighting the role of predictive inputs, methods, and policies that enhance resilience to climate change and support progress toward the UNSDGs. Using MANOVA and a Logit model, the study analyzes socio-economic and agricultural determinants of maize yield and labor use, based on cross-sectional data from the 2019/2020 National Agricultural Census and GIS data from NBS. The findings reveal that most farmers use local seeds rather than improved ones. Regionally, Lindi, Mtwara, Singida, Tabora and Morogoro have higher yields on local seed but lower yield on improved seed. However, several inputs and practices such as soil covering, inorganic fertilizers, extension services, and modern equipment significantly increase yield only when improved seeds are used. Off-farm income negatively correlates with maize yield, suggesting reduced on-farm commitment. Labor use is strongly influenced by the household head’s education and credit access. Farmers with only primary education are more likely to hire labor than those with higher education, and those with credit access are far more likely to use hired labor. In addition, contract farming increases farm-size. The study recommends promoting of improved seed adoption, expanding credit access to boost labor demand, and encouraging contract farming to increase scale. Extension services should be restructured to meet the diverse needs of local and improved seed users.