Analysis of Technical Efficiency Levels and Productivity of Seaweed among Smallholder Farmers in Wete District, Zanzibar

Abstract

This study analyzed the technical efficiency and productivity of smallholder seaweed farmers in Wete District, Pemba Island, Zanzibar. Using a three-stage cluster sampling technique, 126 farmers were selected. Data were collected through structured questionnaires covering farm inputs, production, and socio-economic characteristics. Analysis involved Pearson correlation, Cobb-Douglas production function, stochastic frontier analysis, and multiple linear regression, all conducted with STATA software. Results showed strong positive correlations between capital equipment and seed quantity (r = 0.730, p = 0.002), seed quantity and number of lines planted (r = 0.820, p < 0.001), and seed quantity and hired labor (r = 0.760, p = 0.003). The Cobb-Douglas model identified lines planted as the most significant factor, with a 1% increase leading to a 3.07–3.25% yield rise (p < 0.001). Capital equipment and seed quantity increased output by 0.64–0.90% and 0.09–0.12%, respectively, and technical efficiency averaged 60.64%. and productivity was positively influenced by farming experience (2.6% increase per 1% experience, p < 0.001), access to extension services (coefficient = 0.850, p < 0.001), and harvest frequency (0.22% increase per cycle, p = 0.007). Female farmers produced 0.36 units less than males (p = 0.002). The study recommends improving access to quality seedlings, modern equipment, inclusive extension services, promoting gender equity, supporting cooperatives, and vocational training to enhance productivity and sustainability.