AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND INSTITUTIONAL

FACTORS INFLUENCING TOMATO PRODUCTIVITY AMONGST

SMALLHOLDER FARMERS: A CASE STUDY OF
MUKUNGWE SUB-COUNTY IN
MASAKA DISTRICT.

BY

NAGGAYI ALLEN PHILISTER

16/U/021/AGD/GV

ARESEARCH REPORT SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

IN PARTIALFULFILMENTS FOR THE AWARD OF THE BACHELOR’S
DEGREE OF VOCATIONAL STUDIES IN AGRICULTURE WITH
EDUCATION OF KYAMBOGO UNIVERSIITY

AUGUST, 2019
 DECLARATION

I Naggayi Allen Philister do hereby declare that this research is my original work and it has
never been presented for any academic award in any University.

Signed……………………………………… Date………………………………….

NAGGAYI ALLEN PHILISTER

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 APPROVAL

This is to certify that this Research Report entitled “An investigation into the socio-economic
and institutional factors influencing tomato productivity amongst smallholder farmers: a case
study of Mukungwe sub-county in Masaka district” has been produced under my supervision and
guidance and is hereby approved for submission for the award of a Bachelor’s Degree in
Vocational Studies in Agriculture with Education of Kyambogo University.

Signed……………………………………. Date…………………………………………..

SUPERVISOR

ii
 DEDICATION

This piece of work is dedicated to my parents for the influential care they have availed to me
throughout my academics career, May God bless you all abundantly.

iii
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I extend a vote of thanks to a number of people who unreservedly, contributed towards the
accomplishment of this research work. I would like also to acknowledge the assistance and role
played by the following personalities to the successful completion of this study. I cannot say
exactly how grateful I am to my supervisor, your guidance in this study was beyond measure.
Thank you also for providing me with professional advice, encouragement and your time that has
spurred me to success.

In the same way, I would like to thank the respondents from Mukungwe Sub-county for the time
they gave me most especially in evenings after the long day’s work. They honestly filled the
questionnaires, surely, without their input; this study would not have come to fruition.

I cannot forget the efforts of the staff of Kyambogo University especially the lecturers for their
input and effort that made me acquire the invaluable knowledge. Your contribution can never be
quantified but will always be reminiscent whenever I look through this book.

Lastly, I thank my parents and all family members for sacrificing the little they had, in thick and
thin and invested in my education. This sacrifice that you made failed in other peoples’ homes.
Thank you for looking after me and enabling me to acquire a lifelong investment.

MAY GOD BLESS YOU

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 ABSTRACT

The study investigated the socio-economic and institutional factors influencing tomato
productivity amongst smallholder farmers: a case study of Mukungwe sub-county in Masaka
district. The study was guided by three research objectives and these were; to assess the
productivity of tomato amongst smallholder tomato farmers in the study area, to determine the
socio-economic factors that influence tomato productivity amongst smallholder tomato farmers
in the study area and to determine institutional factors that influence tomato productivity
amongst smallholder tomato farmers in the study area.

From the findings, it was revealed that, almost all the respondents who involved in the study
agreed that, there are many tomato growers in the area. Additionally, all the respondents agreed
that they involve or take part in tomato growing. The major reason for growing tomatoes in
Mukungwe subcounty by the farmers is commercial/cash crop. Most of the tomato growing
farmers are involved in livestock keeping, these gave a reason that livestock keeping has enabled
them to provide manure to their tomato gardens. Data in the above table indicated that most of
the respondents agreed that, the most common socio-economic factor influencing tomato
productivity amongst small holder farmers is source of income, household size, education level
and source of labour. Data in the above indicated that, access to micro credit is one of the
institutional factors influencing tomato productivity, access to extension services, access to
Market, farmer’s organizations and mass media.

The study concluded that, there was statistically significant relationship between socioeconomic
factors such as age, marital status, labour availability, farm size, source of income, household
size, the level of education, and farming experience with tomato productivity. Moreover,
institutional factors such as extension service, access to credit and access to market show
statistical significance with tomato productivity. However, other factors such as membership to
farmers’ organization, and exposure to mass media were not statistically significant to tomato
productivity but showed a relationship with tomato productivity.

The study recommended that, extension services for farmers should be strengthened by the
extension agents situated within Mukungwe sub-county-Masaka district by making frequent
visits to farmers. Farmers should be mobilized to accesses credit facilities. Loans should be soft
and mode of repayment should attract most farmers. Farmers growing tomato should be
mobilized to form groups so that together they could form their own produce markets and

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collectively be able to establish organized market networks to enable them to access reliable
market.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS
DECLARATION..............................................................................................................................i

APPROVAL....................................................................................................................................ii

DEDICATION...............................................................................................................................iii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT..............................................................................................................iv

ABSTRACT....................................................................................................................................v

LIST OF TABLES AND FIGURES..............................................................................................ix

CHAPTER ONE..............................................................................................................................1

INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND....................................................................................1

1.0 Introduction...............................................................................................................................1

1.1 Background of the study............................................................................................................1

1.2 Problem statement.....................................................................................................................3

1.3 Research Objectives..................................................................................................................4

1.3.1 Overall objective.....................................................................................................................4

1.3.2 Specific objectives..................................................................................................................4

1.4 Research Questions....................................................................................................................4

1.5 Scope of the study......................................................................................................................4

1.5.1 Geographical scope.................................................................................................................4

1.5.2 Content scope....................................................................................................................4

1.6 Significance of the study...........................................................................................................5

1.7 Limitations of the study.............................................................................................................5

CHAPTER TWO.............................................................................................................................6

LITERATURE REVIEW................................................................................................................6

2.0 Introduction...............................................................................................................................6

2.1 Productivity of Vegetables and Importance of Growing Vegetables........................................6

2.1.1 Productivity............................................................................................................................6

2.1.2 Importance of tomato crop.....................................................................................................6

2.2 Challenges of Tomato Production and Strategies for Increasing Tomato Productivity............7
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2.2.1 Challenges facing tomato production.....................................................................................7

2.2.2 Increasing tomato productivity...............................................................................................8

2.3 Socio-economic and Institutional Factors Influencing Tomato Productivity............................8

2.3.1 Socio-economic factors..........................................................................................................8

2.2.3 Institutional factors.................................................................................................................9

CHAPTER THREE.......................................................................................................................11

RESEARCH METHODOLOLOGY.............................................................................................11

3.0 Introduction.............................................................................................................................11

3.1 Collections of samples.............................................................................................................11

3.2 Study area................................................................................................................................11

3.3 Research Design......................................................................................................................11

3.4 Study Population......................................................................................................................11

3.5 Sampling technique.................................................................................................................12

3.6 Data analysis............................................................................................................................12

3.7 Data Collection Instruments/Methods.....................................................................................12

3.7.1 Questionnaire Method..........................................................................................................12

3.8 Procedure for Data Collection.................................................................................................12

3.9 Data Processing, Presentation and Analysis............................................................................12

3.9.1 Qualitative data analysis.......................................................................................................12

3.9.2 Quantitative data analysis.....................................................................................................13

3.10 Ethical Considerations...........................................................................................................13

CHAPTER FOUR.........................................................................................................................14

DATA ANALYSIS, INTERPRETATION AND PRESENTATION OF FINDINGS.................14

4.0 Introduction.............................................................................................................................14

4.1 Respondent’s Bio-data.............................................................................................................14

4.1.1 Findings on the gender of Respondents................................................................................14

4.1.2 Findings on Age bracket of the respondent..........................................................................15

4.1.3 Findings on the highest level of education...........................................................................15

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4.2.4 Time spent in the area...........................................................................................................16

4.2 The productivity of tomato amongst smallholder tomato farmers in the study area...............16

4.2.1 Period spent by a farmer while growing tomato...................................................................16

4.2.2 Size of land under tomato growing.......................................................................................17

4.2.3 Ownership of land under tomato growing............................................................................18

4.2.4 Major reasons for growing tomatoes....................................................................................18

4.3 Socio-economic factors that influence tomato productivity amongst smallholder tomato
farmers in the study area................................................................................................................19

4.3.1 Other activities involved in apart from being a tomato grower............................................19

4.3.2 Socio-economic factors influencing tomato productivity amongst small holder farmers....20

4.4 Institutional factors that influence tomato productivity amongst smallholder tomato farmers
in the study area.............................................................................................................................21

4.4.1 Where tomatoes are sold after harvesting.............................................................................21

4.4.2 Institutional factors that influence tomato productivity........................................................21

CHAPTER FIVE...........................................................................................................................23

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS........................................................................23

5.1 Introduction.............................................................................................................................23

5.2 Conclusions.............................................................................................................................24

5.3 Recommendations...................................................................................................................24

REFERENCES..............................................................................................................................25

APPENDICES...............................................................................................................................27

APPENDIX I: LETTER OF REQUEST FOR QUESTIONNAIRE SESSION............................27

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 LIST OF TABLES AND FIGURES

Table 1: Gender of Respondents...................................................................................................14

Table 2: Showing Age bracket of the respondent..........................................................................15
Table 3: Showing highest level of education of the respondents..................................................15
Table 4: Time spent in the area......................................................................................................16
Table 5: Showing Period spent by a farmer while growing tomato..............................................16
Table 6: Size of your land under tomato growing.........................................................................17
Figure 1: Ownership of land under tomato growing.....................................................................18
Figure 2: Showing the major reasons for growing tomatoes.........................................................18
Figure 3: Tomato varieties grown.................................................................................................19
Table 7: showing other activities involved in apart from being a tomato grower.........................19
Table 8: Showing socio-economic factors influencing tomato productivity amongst small holder
farmers...........................................................................................................................................20
Figure 4: Showing where tomatoes are sold after harvesting........................................................21
Table 9: Showing institutional factors that influence tomato productivity...................................21

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 CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND

1.0 Introduction

This chapter presents the background of the study, the problem statement of the study, the
objectives of the study, scope of the study, the significance of the study and constrains of the
study.

1.1 Background of the study

Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) is the next most important vegetable crop after potato in the
world (FAO, 2005). It is a relatively short duration crop which gives high yields, and it is
therefore economically attractive. This crop belongs to the Solanaceae family, and which
includes other well-known species such as round potato, tobacco, peppers and eggplant (Naika et
al., 2005).

Tomato has its origin in the South American Andes. The cultivated tomato was brought to
Europe by the Spanish conquistadors in the sixteenth century and later introduced from Europe
to southern and eastern Asia, Africa and the Middle East. More recently, wild tomato has been
distributed into other parts of South America and Mexico and thence to many parts of the world
(Atherton and Rees, 2005; Naika et al., 2005; Mbonihankuye, 2010; Suárez et al., 2011).

According to Naika et al. (2005), tomato is variously known in the world, for example other
common names for the tomato are: tomate (Spain, France), tomat (Indonesia), faanke’e (China),
tomati (West Africa), tomatl (Nahuatl), jitomate (Mexico), pomodoro (Italy), nyanya (Swahili).
It is grown as a cash as well as commercial crop worldwide. Also, it is processed into industrial
products such as tomato sauce and tomato paste. Its nutritional value in terms of vitamins A, B
and C has made the crop one of the most popular items on menus.

Globally, the production of tomato is estimated at 161 793 834 tons per year with productivity of
33.6 tons per hectare (FAO, 2012), implying that the crop has the potential for development to
high value crop. Nutritive and economic values of tomato has made the crop become the world
agenda in the international horticultural forums (Ayandiji and Adeniyi, 2011; Passam et al.,
2007). It is asserted that the global production of tomato has increased by about 300 % in the last
four decades (Atherton and Rees, 2005). About 130 million tons of tomatoes were produced in
the world in 2008 with China being the largest producer, accounting for about one quarter of the
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global output, followed by the United States and Turkey (Ogbomo, 2011; Atherton and Rees,
2005). According to literature the world tomato production in 2001 was about 105 million tons
of fresh fruit from an estimated 3.9 million ha (Naika et al., 2005). Moreover, in 2005 the global
tomato production was estimated at 125 million tons out of which 107.6 million tons were
produced from Sub-Saharan Africa (FAO, 2005). Tomato is the world’s important crop which is
also produced in Africa. However, its production and productivity have been below the potential
levels in most African countries due to multiple reasons.

According to FAO (2003), tomato productivity in Uganda was below Africa’s average of 20.51t
ha-1. According to FAO (2012), tomato production in Tanzania was estimated at about 255 000
tons per year with yields of 8.5 tons per hectare. In sub-Saharan Africa including Tanzania,
tomato is an important vegetable crop as it greatly contributes to the incomes of smallholder
farmers (FAO, 2005; Fischer, 2003). In 2002, tomato crop contributed 3.0% of the total
agricultural GDP in Tanzania (Fischer, 2003). In Tanzania, tomato is grown in many
Municipalities including Tanga, Mbeya, Iringa, Arusha, Morogoro, Mukungwe Sub-county,
Mwanza, Temeke and Kinondoni.

Mukungwe Sub-county being the study area grows many vegetables including tomato crop,
which is among the most important vegetables which play a great role in most of the household
economies within the Municipal. The crop contributes to the household income and food
security. Mukungwe Sub-county has huge potential for tomato production due to availability of
ample irrigable farmland and the presence of relatively better market opportunities as compared
to other areas in central Region.

At present, there are more than 203 smallholder farmers who are engaged in tomato production
(MALDO, 2012). Although tomato is the leading cash crop, municipal statistics on productivity
of tomato in Mukungwe Sub-county stand at eight tons per hectare (DADPs, 2012). Most of the
crop is produced by smallholder farmers in land holdings ranging from 0.1-1.2 ha. Important
markets for the crop include Mukungwe Sub-county. Tomato production depends on both rain-
fed and irrigated water. Apart from increasing smallholder farmers’ incomes, the crop
contributes significantly as a source of revenue for Mukungwe Sub-county Municipal Council
(MMC) through levies.

In order to promote tomato production, the government has undertaken several measures to
ensure an increase of tomato yields per unit area as a strategy of improving agriculture
production as a whole. Among the measures undertaken is creation of awareness among tomato

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farmers and training under several programs such as Agricultural Sector Development
Programme (ASDP, 2006) through District Agriculture Development Plans (DADPs).

1.2 Problem statement

The livelihood of farmers depends on the cash they gain from crop production. When
productivity is lower than the cost of production, the land area used, and the time consumed in
production, it becomes less likely for farmers, the community, and the nation as a whole to attain
any developments because they (farmers) use more effort and money to invest while not
realizing good returns for the inputs invested and efforts made, Productivity of tomato depends
on so many factors such as soil type, altitude, climate, policy issues, extension services, markets,
and economic situation of the area. To increase productivity, profitability, and sustainability of
tomato farms, farmers , need greater access to affordable yield-enhancing inputs, including well-
adapted seeds and new methods for integrated soil fertility management, as well as output
markets where they (farmers) can convert surplus production into cash (Toenniessen et al.,
2008). However, socio-economic and institutional factors are known to influence agricultural
productivity, particularly among smallholder farmers in terms of quantity and quality of
agricultural produce (Al-Shadiadeh, 2012; Rogers, 1995). These factors include age, gender,
level of education, sizes of farms, farmers’ income, sizes of households, sources of information,
extension services, markets, farmers’ organizations and financial services. Understanding how
these factors influence a specific crop in a given farmers’ community is critical in developing
specific strategies to improve productivity of that crop. Therefore, this study will document
levels of tomato productivity among farmers in Mukungwe Sub-county and the extent to which
socio-economic and institutional factors influence tomato productivity among farmers in
Mukungwe Sub-county.

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1.3 Research Objectives

1.3.1 Overall objective

The overall objective of the study was to assess socio-economic and institutional factors
affecting tomato productivity among smallholder farmers in Mukungwe Sub-county.

1.3.2 Specific objectives

i. To assess the productivity of tomato amongst smallholder tomato farmers in the study
area.

ii. To determine the socio-economic factors that influence tomato productivity amongst
smallholder tomato farmers in the study area.

iii. To determine institutional factors that influence tomato productivity amongst smallholder
tomato farmers in the study area.

1.4 Research Questions

i. What is the productivity of tomato amongst smallholder farmers in the study area?

ii. What are the socio-economic factors that influence tomato productivity amongst
smallholder farmers in the study area?

iii. What are the institutional factors that influence tomato productivity amongst smallholder
farmers in the study area?

1.5 Scope of the study

1.5.1 Geographical scope

The study was carried out at Mukungwe sub-county in Masaka District which is located in
central region of Uganda. The tomato farmers were got from four villages which all be located in
Mukungwe sub-county

1.5.2 Content scope

The study evaluated the socio-economic and institutional factors affecting tomato productivity
among smallholder farmers in Mukungwe Sub-county. Specifically, the study was limited to the

4
productivity of tomato amongst smallholder tomato farmers in the study area, socio-economic
factors that influence tomato productivity amongst smallholder tomato farmers in the study area
and institutional factors that influence tomato productivity amongst smallholder tomato farmers
in the study area.

1.6 Significance of the study.

1. The study will provide the basis for the partial fulfillment of the award of a degree.

2. The study shall enable the researcher to understand more about the effects of nematodes
on tomato productivity in different villages around the area of study that is Mukungwe
sub-county.

3. The study shall aid in the finding out the occurrence of nematodes among tomato growers
in the area of study by the researchers.

4. The research findings shall be used as a reference for future research

1.7 Limitations of the study

i. Same farmers were not willing to give their tomato gardens as samples to the researcher
and this was dealt away by convincing them and showing them introductory letter from
University.

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 CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.0 Introduction

This chapter presents an over view of the literature related to the objectives of the study and
summary of the literature review

2.1 Productivity of Vegetables and Importance of Growing Vegetables

2.1.1 Productivity

Productivity is defined as an output per unit of input (Fulginiti et al., 2004). Productivity refers to
the ratio of output to its inputs (Chavas et al., 2005). Empirical studies have shown that
productivity arises from improvement in efficiency brought about by advancement in
technology. Advancement in agricultural productivity has led to abundant and affordable food
and fibre throughout most of the developed world (Hughes, 1998).

Farmers in Mukungwe Sub-county have been growing tomatoes for a number of years but their
levels of productivity which could reflect the output levels from what is being invested in
producing tomatoes is not well known, hence farmers will not be able to determine whether their
production ventures are worth undertaking.

2.1.2 Importance of tomato crop

Tomatoes contribute to a healthy, well-balanced diet. They are rich in minerals, vitamins,
essential amino acids, sugars and dietary fibres. Tomato contains much of the vitamins A, B and
C, and minerals such as iron and phosphorus. Tomato fruits are consumed fresh in salads or
cooked in sauces, soup and meat or fish dishes. They can be processed into purées, juices and
ketchup. Canned and dried tomatoes are economically important processed products (Naika et
al., 2005; Tshiala and Olwoch, 2010). In amplifying its importance, Tshiala and Olwoch (2010)
observe that tomato is a major vegetable crop and commonly grown by both poor and rich
farmers in South Africa. It is used worldwide as a fresh vegetable or as a spice in food
preparation. Currently, it is one of the main vegetables used for hawking by small-scale
entrepreneurs in the informal sector. In Tanzania, according to Maerere et al. (2006) tomato is
the most important vegetable crop in terms of production and use.

6
Vegetables, especially tomatoes, are the best resource for overcoming micronutrient deficiencies
and provide smallholder farmers with much higher income and more jobs per hectare than staple
crops (AVRDC, 2006). Vegetables generally include sweet pepper, cauliflower, carrot, cabbage,
lettuce, spinach, tomato, potato, reddish, onions and cucumbers, which are fresh and edible
portions of herbaceous plants. Vegetables are important source of food and highly beneficial for
the maintenance of health and prevention of diseases. They contain valuable food ingredients
which can be successfully utilized to build up and repair the body (Hanif et al., 2006). Tomato is
the next most important vegetable crop after potato in the world (FAO, 2005). It is used as a cash
crop as well as food crop worldwide. Tomato is eaten in various cuisine recipes; it can either be
eaten raw or industrially processed into products such as tomato sauce and tomato paste.

2.2 Challenges of Tomato Production and Strategies for Increasing Tomato Productivity

2.2.1 Challenges facing tomato production

Like other vegetables, tomato production and productivity are faced with a number of
constraints; as a horticultural crop, tomato is faced by biotic factors such as lack of improved
seeds, pests and diseases and abiotic factors which include drought, markets, input supply and
soil nutrients (FAO, 2005; GoK, 2010; Peña and Hughes, 2007; Ambecha, et al., 2007; Anang et
al., 2013).

Pests and diseases are one of the critical challenges in tomato production systems (James et al.,
2010; Maerere et al., 2006). As Nouhoheflin et al. (2007) point out that pests and diseases caused
by bacteria, nematodes, fungi and viruses cause significant losses of tomato in West Africa. It is
argued that the main disease reported by most farmers is tomato leaf curl viruses transmitted by
whitefly (Bemissia tabaci) (ibid). Furthermore, in Kenya, Masinde et al, (2011) points out that
the most ubiquitous and devastating pathogen that infects tomatoes in the North Rift Kenya is
Phytophthora infestans that causes late blight and Alternaria solani that causes early blight. In
Tanzania, bacterial speck and bacterial spot diseases of tomato caused by Pseudomonas syringae
and Xanthomonas vesicatoria respectively are considered to be the most important foliar diseases
of tomato in most production areas (Shenge et al., 2007).

Tomato is also particularly sensitive to pest pressure and is therefore subject to intensive
application of chemical pesticides including toxic ones. Resistance to pests, low awareness about
risks, and availability of cheap but high toxic pesticides has increased the risks in tomato
production. The misuse of pesticides has raised concerns about health hazards linked to
intoxications resulting in morbidity, deaths and environmental pollution (Coulibaly et al., 2006;

7
Sibuga et al., 2010). Again, Nouhoheflin et al. (2007) assert that key factors affecting farmers’
pest management decision making are gender; share of tomato income from household income
and the level of farm income. Men are more involved in tomato production due to access to
pesticide and effective demand for pesticides because of incomes differentials (purchasing
power).

Similarly, it is also argued that tomato productivity, like the productivity of most other
vegetables is severely affected by poor weather conditions and the inherent low capacity of most
smallholder farmers in tackling moisture stress making them failing to capitalize on the
production and market potentials for vegetables (Tshiala and Olwoch, 2010). Apart from
excessive insects and disease damage, other constraints that prevent farmers from achieving
potential yields are unavailability of quality seed, the use of unadapted varieties, low soil
fertility, postharvest losses and the lack of appropriate cultural practices (Mbonihankuye, 2010;
Ogbomo, 2011; Ayandiji and Adeniyi, 2011).

2.2.2 Increasing tomato productivity

Just like in other crops, tomato productivity is of prime concern to farmers and professionals in
an attempt to improve community livelihoods particularly in agrarian economies found in most
developing countries. In Tanzania in general and Mukungwe Sub-county in particular, various
efforts have been made to improve production and productivity of tomato, alongside other crops
(MD, 2013).

2.3 Socio-economic and Institutional Factors Influencing Tomato Productivity

2.3.1 Socio-economic factors

Many studies that have been conducted show that a relative contribution of each socioeconomic
factor depends on the type of the enterprises and their associated innovations (Al-Shadiadeh,
2012; Rogers, 1995; Altarawneh, 2012). The socio-economic factors of farmers include gender,
age, income, and level of education, labour availability, farm size, marital status, and household
size. Also, it is observed that institutional factors do influence agricultural productivity in a
variety of ways in conjunction with socioeconomic factors (Chapoto et al., 2012; Parajuli, 2011).

Household size is among the important socio economic characteristics which influence crop
productivity because a fairly large family size implies more family labour available for the
household farm activities (Ozor and Cynthia, 2010; Ogundari, 2008). This was also reported by

8
Igben (1988) that household size is an obvious possible advantage in terms of farm labour supply
when it is relatively large.

Education level is a socio economic characteristic of great importance as it determines one’s

ability to comprehend and analyze issues before taking any action. Thus, education level is very
useful in technology adoption for improved crop productivity. As Ozor and Cynthia (2010)
assert, an increase in educational status of farmers positively influence the adoption of improved
technologies and practices. Furthermore as Opara (2010) argues, farmers with basic education
are better equipped for making more informed decision for lives and for their communities as
well as becoming active participants in economic, social, and cultural dimensions of
development. Likewise, the study by Adenuga et al. (2013) found that education, unlike other
socio-economic factors like age, labour, gender and farm size, significantly influenced
production and productivity of tomato. Evidence on the efficiency of small-scale tomato farmers’
production from a study by Abu et al. (2011) shows that socio economic variables of farm size,
and labour size significantly influenced tomato output. Moreover, education, and farmers’
experience have significant impact on tomato output (ibid).

Main source of income is also among the socio-economic characteristics that is said to influence
farming decisions by the farmer because farm practices depend on capital investment especially
when the capital is dependent on the existing sources of income (Mathenge and Tschirley, 2008).
Under such circumstances, it is plausible that earnings from off the farm may often be used to
compensate for the missing and imperfect credit markets by providing ready cash for input
purchases as well as other household needs. In addition, off and on farm earnings could be used
to spread the risk of using these modern farm inputs to the extent that farmers choose traditional
over modern inputs in order to lower their risk. Thus, any mechanism that allows farmers to
smoothen consumption will raise the use of modern inputs and increase farm productivity.

2.2.3 Institutional factors

Institutional factors influencing crop productivity include farmers’ access to extension services,
credit, market, farmers’ organization and mass media (Wachira, 2012; Bonabana- Wabbi, 2002).
Access to credit is regarded as one of the key elements in raising agricultural productivity
(Anyiro and Oriaku, 2011; DBSA, 2005).

Micro credit is the name given to extremely small loans made to poor borrowers whose role is to
enhance the production capacity of the poor resource farmers through financial investment in
their human and physical capital (Okurut et al., 2004). Thus, households with access to credit

9
may be of help to farmers in obtaining the capital required for adopting the higher profit
production technologies and therefore increase productivity (Wachira, 2012).

According to Oladeebo (2008), availability of adequate and timely credit help farmers in
expanding the scope of operation and adoption of new technology as well as enhancing the
purchase and use of some improved inputs which are not available on the farm.

Extension services reflected by the number of extension contacts either through farm visits made
or training sessions received prior to and during production season influence crop productivity
(Anyiro and Oriaku, 2011). This is because farmers who get in touch with the extension agent
are likely to get the right information not only on a technology but also its profitability.

Access to market and availability of market are bound to reduce marketing costs on matters such
as transport and other transaction costs and offer favourable price for tomatoes (Wachira, 2012;
Anyiro and Oriaku, 2011). Access to market may be analyzed in terms of the distance in
kilometres to the market reflecting the marketing costs that one incurs in the course of accessing
the market and thus thought to have a negative effect on productivity as it reduces the profits
which might be obtained from marketing farm outputs (Wachira, 2012).

Farmers’ organization help them to participate in group activities, as they may tend to share
ideas on profitable enterprises and adopt them as well as engage in market activities of inputs
acquisition or selling of produce and thereby improve their profits. Consequently, organized
farmer groups are promoted as useful avenues for increasing farmer productivity and for the
implementation of food security and other development projects (Lenis, 2012).

This chapter has generally reviewed literature on productivity of tomato and importance of
growing tomatoes; challenges of tomato production and strategies for increasing tomato
productivity; and socio-economic and institutional factors influencing tomato productivity.
However, little is known on socio-economic and institutional factors influencing tomato
productivity amongst smallholder farmers in Mukungwe Sub-county. There is therefore a need to
assess socio-economic and institutional factors influencing tomato productivity amongst
smallholder farmers in Mukungwe Sub-county, in order to contribute in designing appropriate
extension programmes that would boost tomato productivity in the study area and other areas
with similar situation.

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 CHAPTER THREE

RESEARCH METHODOLOLOGY

3.0 Introduction

This chapter outlines the experimental design of the study, procedures, sampling technique, data
collection and analysis of data and presentation, area of the study, and other ways that will be
used in acquiring data.

3.1 Collections of samples

The study sample gardens were collected from Mukungwe sub-county in Masaka Districts from
the local tomato growers. Therefore, a total of 50 farmers using questioning and interview
question were contacted.

3.2 Study area

The study was carried out at Mukungwe sub-county in Masaka District which is located in
central region of Uganda. The respondents were picked from four villages which are all located
in Mukungwe sub-county and these acted as our samples for this current study.

3.3 Research Design

The study adopted a descriptive and qualitative approach. This research design was preferred
because of its ability to determine and report the way things were and also helped a
researcher to describe a phenomenon in terms of attitude, values and characteristics (Mugenda,
2013). Qualitative approach involved explaining and describing respondents’ perceptions about
the study problem by use of quotations and narrations. While quantitative approach was
employed to present the demographic information of the study respondents. Quantitative analysis
also involved the use of descriptive statistics to establish relationship between the study
variables.

3.4 Study Population

The study was carried out among the selected respondents who included only the farmers in the
study area. Therefore the study had a total of 50 respondents who constituted only 50 tomato
farmers. Here simple random sampling technique was used to establish the above to represent the
entire population of the study to enhance equity and reliability of desired data.
11
3.5 Sampling technique

The researcher randomly picked the respondents whereby each tomato farmer had an equal
chance of being selected to take part in the study.

3.6 Data analysis

The analysis of the results were carried out on the data collected using tables and Graphs
whereby the percentages were got and computed in the tables.

3.7 Data Collection Instruments/Methods

The instruments or tools that were used in the study included a questionnaire and an interview
guide which served as primary sources.

3.7.1 Questionnaire Method

A questionnaire is essentially a structured technique of collecting primary data. It is generally

written questions for which the respondents have to provide the answer, Bell (1990) Barifaijo et
al, (2010). Open and closed ended questionnaires were designed by the researcher. The
questionnaires contained information about the factors influencing tomato productivity and they
were completed by the respondents so as to provide reliable data that later was captured by the
researcher. This instrument was suitable for this category because they filled them at their
convenience and without tension. This method was employed because it saves time, questioners
are very easy to administer.

3.8 Procedure for Data Collection

The researcher got a letter of introduction from the Department which was presented to the
respondents. The researcher then approached respondents and distributed them with the
questionnaires which was then picked by the researcher after a given period of time.

3.9 Data Processing, Presentation and Analysis

This involved both qualitative and quantitative analysis

3.9.1 Qualitative data analysis

Data from the field was organized into themes and sub themes and arranged to ensure that no
information was left out. Similar responses were put together under one theme or subtheme in

12
order to avoid generic and uncoordinated information. The researcher then interpreted the data
and some responses were used as quotations in the presentation and discussion of findings.

3.9.2 Quantitative data analysis

Quantitatively the researcher thoroughly cross check the research instruments to establish
completeness, accuracy and consistency and uniformity of the answers were given. The data was
then coded and tabulated. Frequency tables were used to give a description of the findings.
Relevant tables extract, graphs and charts were then drawn to give deeper meaning to the data
presented.

3.10 Ethical Considerations

There were various ethical issues or considerations that the researcher considered while
conducting the research and these included;

The dress code was absolutely decent so as to eliminate any sort of bias from the respondents
while in the field. It required smartness so as to reflect the cause and the purpose of carrying out
research.

Bribery in order to get information was highly prohibited while carrying out the research
exercise. Such a vice was unethical as the body of knowledge may have lost the meaning in
comparison with the current flow of the events under research.

Confidentiality on the other hand was highly encouraged for instance respondents were assured
of unveiling their identities during the interview process and in questions.

13
 CHAPTER FOUR

DATA ANALYSIS, INTERPRETATION AND PRESENTATION OF FINDINGS

4.0 Introduction

This chapter presents findings on the socio-economic and institutional factors influencing tomato
productivity amongst smallholder farmers in Mukungwe sub-county in Masaka district. It covers
the background information about the respondents (farmers), the productivity of tomato amongst
smallholder tomato farmers in the study area, the socio-economic factors that influence tomato
productivity amongst smallholder tomato farmers in the study area and institutional factors that
influence tomato productivity amongst smallholder tomato farmers in the study area. In the
presentation of findings, tables and figures are constructed using frequencies and percentages to
describe and analyze the findings to draw meaningful conclusions.

4.1 Respondent’s Bio-data

4.1.1 Findings on the gender of Respondents

Table 1: Gender of Respondents

Sex Frequency Percentage

Male 38 76%

Female 12 24%

Total 0 100%

Source: Primary data

It is noted from the above table that, much data was generated from male respondents who were
38 out of 50 representing 76% compared to 12 of the female respondents that represented
forming 24%; The mixture of both sexes made the researcher to realize that both males and
females engage in tomato productivity (growing) in Mukungwe sub-county-Masaka District.
Furthermore, the findings indicated that the study was gender sensitive since both genders were
represented.

14
4.1.2 Findings on Age bracket of the respondent

Table 2: Showing Age bracket of the respondent

Response Frequency Percentage

20-30 years 15 30%
31-40 years 20 40%
41-50 years 10 20%
51 years and above 5 10%
Total 50 100%
Source: Primary data

From the table above, most of the respondents involved in the study were between the age
bracket of 31-40 years thus contributing to 4%, 30% of the respondents were between the age
bracket of 20-30 years, 20% of the respondents were 41-50 years, while a few of the respondents
that is 10% were 51 years and above. Having very few people in age group of above 51 years
implies that most old people were not involved in tomato production. Again, there were fewer,
(30%) of the young people aged 20-30 years and relatively large numbers (40%) of middle aged
people (31-40 years) implying that the middle age people who probably had much responsibility
for their families were the ones more involved in the production of tomato as it seemed to be a
viable venture in Mukungwe sub-county-Masaka District.

4.1.3 Findings on the highest level of education

Table 3: Showing highest level of education of the respondents

Response Frequency Percentage

Primary 5 10%

Secondary 22 44%

Tertiary 20 40%

None 3 6%

Total 0 100%

Source: Primary data

From the Table above, results obtained indicated that most of the respondents who involved in
the study agreed that, they have secondary as their highest level of education thus contributing to
44% of the respondents; 40% of the respondents were tertiary levels, 10% were primary

15
certificate holders while 6% of the respondents had none of the education levels meaning that
they never went to school. This indicates that majority of primary and secondary school leavers
who could not continue with further education, joined farming as a source for their livelihood.

4.2.4 Time spent in the area

Table 4: Time spent in the area

Frequency Percentage (%)

Less than 3 years 6 12%

3-5 years 8 16%

5 years and above 36 72%

Total 0 100%

Source: Primary data

The above table indicates that, 12% of the respondents have spent a period of less than 3 years in
the area, 16% of the respondents have spent 3-5 years while 72% of the respondents have spent 5
years and above in Mukungwe sub-county-Masaka District. This therefore indicates that, most of
the respondents have the required knowledge concerning the study since everyone who involved
in the study had spent a reasonable time in the area.

4.2 The productivity of tomato amongst smallholder tomato farmers in the study area

Almost all the respondents who involved in the study agreed that, there are many tomato
growers in the area. Additionally, all the respondents agreed that they involve or take part in
tomato growing.

4.2.1 Period spent by a farmer while growing tomato

Table 5: Showing Period spent by a farmer while growing tomato

Frequency Percentage
Less than 1 year 4 8%
1-5 years 21 42%
6-10 years 16 32%
Over 11 years 9 18%
Total 0 100%

Source: Primary data

16
From the table above, data indicated that, most of the farmers that took part in the study have
been growing tomatoes for a period of 1-5 years thus contributing to 42%, followed by 32% of
the respondents who agreed that they have been growing tomatoes for 6-10 years, 18% of the
respondents agreed that they have been growing tomatoes for over 11 years while 8% of the
respondents have been growing tomatoes for less than 1 year and this confirmed to the study
that, every year there are new entrants in the tomato growing field.

4.2.2 Size of land under tomato growing

Table 6: Size of your land under tomato growing

Size of land Frequency Percentage

Half an acre 10 20%
1 acre 23 46%
2 acres 5 10%
More than 2 acres 12 24%
Total 0 100%

Source: Primary data

Data presented in the above table indicates that, most of the respondents agreed that, the size of
their land under tomato growing is 1 acre thus contributing to 46%, 24% of the respondents
agreed that they have more than 2 acres under tomato growing, 20% of the respondents agreed
that they have half an acre under tomato growing while 10% of the respondents agreed that they
have 2 acres of land under tomato growing. This therefore implied that, most of the farmers are
very serious with tomato growing business and this could be because it has earned them a
reasonable income to support their household size. Furthermore, this therefore implied that, the
size of land under tomato growing has a relationship with tomato productivity in Mukungwe
sub-county-Masaka district.

17
4.2.3 Ownership of land under tomato growing

Figure 1: Ownership of land under tomato growing

60 52

50

40
26 28
30

20 14 12
8 6
10 4

0
Rental land Own land Borrowed from Family land
relatives

frequency Percentage

Source: Primary data

From the figure above, findings indicated that, most of the farmers agreed that the land under
tomato growing is their own land thus contributing to a percentage of 52%, 28% of the
respondents agreed that their land under tomato growing is borrowed from relatives, 12% of the
respondents agreed that it’s a family land while 8% of the respondents agreed that it is a rental
land.

4.2.4 Major reasons for growing tomatoes

Figure 2: Showing the major reasons for growing tomatoes

Commercial/ cash crop

Home consumption and commercial
28%

72%

18
Source: Primary data

Figure 3: Tomato varieties grown

8%

Improved varieties
Local varieties

92%

Source: Primary data

From the figure 2&3 above data indicated that, the major reason for growing tomatoes in
Mukungwe subcounty by the farmers is commercial/cash crop thus contributing to 72% while
28% of the respondents agreed that with commercial and home consumption. Additionally figure
3 indicated that most of the tomato growers in Mukungwe sub-county grow improved varieties
thus contributing to 92% however there are few farmers who agreed that they grow local
varieties which contributed to 8%.

4.3 Socio-economic factors that influence tomato productivity amongst smallholder tomato
farmers in the study area

4.3.1 Other activities involved in apart from being a tomato grower

Table 7: showing other activities involved in apart from being a tomato grower

Other activities Frequency Percentage

Livestock keeper 18 36%
Business 12 24%
Privately and civil employment 10 20%
Other non-farm activities like carpentry 10 20%
Total 0 100%

Source: Primary data

19
Results in the table above indicated that most of the tomato growing farmers are involved in
livestock keeping, these gave a reason that livestock keeping has enabled them to provide
manure to their tomato gardens thus contributing to 36%, 24% of the respondents agreed with
doing other business, while Privately and civil employment and Other non-farm activities like
carpentry were supported by 20% of the respondents respectively. This therefore confirmed to
the study that, most of the tomato growers are involved in other activities other than tomato
growing which either support tomato growing or being supported by tomato growing.

4.3.2 Socio-economic factors influencing tomato productivity amongst small holder farmers

Table 8: Showing socio-economic factors influencing tomato productivity amongst small

holder farmers

Socio-economic factors Frequency Percentage

Household size 12 24%

Education level 10 20%

Source of income 21 42%

Source of labour 7 14%

Total 0 100%

Source: Primary data

Data in the above table indicated that most of the respondents agreed that, the most common
socio-economic factor influencing tomato productivity amongst small holder farmers is source of
income thus contributing to 42%, followed by 24% of the respondents who agreed with
household size, 20% of the respondents agreed with education level while 14% of the
respondents agreed with source of labour. This therefore implied that, the more labour the farmer
has the higher is the productivity of tomato and the relationship between labour availability and
tomato productivity was found to be statistically significant. Additionally, by having primary
level education, farmers became knowledgeable on the production practices that increased
tomato productivity. Moreover with primary education farmers become easy to comprehend
what they get from extension services and therefore increase productivity. However, the higher
education they reach the more they move away from agricultural activities to non-agricultural
enterprises including salaried work and therefore produce only for home consumption. This is

20
the case of secondary and tertiary level of education that in the study area some were teachers
and others had other enterprises which reduced their time of involving in agricultural production.

4.4 Institutional factors that influence tomato productivity amongst smallholder tomato
farmers in the study area

4.4.1 Where tomatoes are sold after harvesting

Figure 4: Showing where tomatoes are sold after harvesting

12% 10%

20%
In the farm
outside our area
34% urban market
Local area market
Neighbours
24%

Source: Primary data

Most of the respondents agreed that they have an organized tomato marketing system thus
contributing to 64% while 36% of the respondents agreed that they don’t have an organized
tomato marketing system. In the same line also, most of the respondents agreed that they sell
their tomatoes outside their area, others agreed with urban market, local market area, neighbors
and few respondents agreed that after harvesting their tomatoes they sell them in the firm.

4.4.2 Institutional factors that influence tomato productivity

Table 9: Showing institutional factors that influence tomato productivity

Institutional factors Frequency Percentage

Access to micro credit 12 24%
Access to extension services 5 10%
Access to Market 17 34%
Farmers Organizations 10 20%
Mass Media 6 12%
Total 0 100%
21
Source: Primary data
Data in the above indicated that, 24% of the respondents agreed that access to micro credit is one
of the institutional factors influencing tomato productivity, 10% of the respondents agreed with
access to extension services, 34% of the respondents agreed with access to Market, 20% of the
respondents agreed with farmers organizations while 12% of the respondents agreed with mass
media. This therefore implied that, an efficient extension services system is very important
institutional factor that influences crop production as it determines how efficient improved
production practices will be delivered to the farmers within their locations and how these
practices shall be adopted by the farming community. This also implies that access to credit
would significantly improve tomato productivity and financial incomes to tomato farmers. The
findings are in accordance with what was reported by Strasberg (2001), that a review of the
credit system in Kenya indicated that formal, non-formal, and informal credit systems can
enhance increased agricultural productivity particularly for the majority of low resource base
farmers. Also, ADB (2001); Petrick, (2002); Pederso, (2003), and FAO (2006) reveal that
provision of credit is known to fuel household and national economic development.

22
 CHAPTER FIVE

SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

5.0 Introduction

The study assessed socio-economic and institutional factors of smallholder tomato farmers in
Mukungwe sub-county. The conclusion and recommendations are based on major issues that
emerged from the findings of the study. The whole study is built on three specific objectives
which are: assessment of productivity of tomato amongst smallholder tomato, farmers in the
study area, identification of socio-economic factors that influence tomato productivity amongst
smallholder tomato farmers, and finally identification of institutional factors that influence
tomato productivity amongst smallholder tomato farmers in the study area.

5.1 Summary

The study investigated the socio-economic and institutional factors influencing tomato
productivity amongst smallholder farmers: a case study of Mukungwe sub-county in Masaka
district. The study was guided by three research objectives and these were; to assess the
productivity of tomato amongst smallholder tomato farmers in the study area, to determine the
socio-economic factors that influence tomato productivity amongst smallholder tomato farmers
in the study area and to determine institutional factors that influence tomato productivity
amongst smallholder tomato farmers in the study area.

From the findings, it was revealed that, almost all the respondents who involved in the study
agreed that, there are many tomato growers in the area. Additionally, all the respondents agreed
that they involve or take part in tomato growing. The major reason for growing tomatoes in
Mukungwe subcounty by the farmers is commercial/cash crop. Most of the tomato growing
farmers are involved in livestock keeping, these gave a reason that livestock keeping has enabled
them to provide manure to their tomato gardens. Data in the above table indicated that most of
the respondents agreed that, the most common socio-economic factor influencing tomato
productivity amongst small holder farmers is source of income, household size, education level
and source of labour. Data in the above indicated that, access to micro credit is one of the
institutional factors influencing tomato productivity, access to extension services, access to
Market, farmer’s organizations and mass media.

23
The study concluded that, there was statistically significant relationship between socioeconomic
factors such as age, marital status, labour availability, farm size, source of income, household
size, the level of education, and farming experience with tomato productivity. Moreover,
institutional factors such as extension service, access to credit and access to market show
statistical significance with tomato productivity. However, other factors such as membership to
farmers’ organization, and exposure to mass media were not statistically significant to tomato
productivity but showed a relationship with tomato productivity.

5.2 Conclusions

According to the findings, there was statistically significant relationship between socioeconomic
factors such as age, marital status, labour availability, farm size, source of income, household
size, the level of education, and farming experience with tomato productivity. Moreover,
institutional factors such as extension service, access to credit and access to market show
statistical significance with tomato productivity. However, other factors such as membership to
farmers’ organization, and exposure to mass media were not statistically significant to tomato
productivity but showed a relationship with tomato productivity.

5.3 Recommendations

In view of the above conclusions, in order to increase tomato productivity this study
recommends the following;

Extension services for farmers should be strengthened by the extension agents situated within
Mukungwe sub-county-Masaka district by making frequent visits to farmers, preparing special
training programmes for farmers growing tomato and other vegetables within the municipal so as
to encourage farmers to apply good agronomic practices for improving tomato productivity.

Farmers should be mobilized to accesses credit facilities. Loans should be soft and mode of
repayment should attract most farmers. Such credit will assist farmers in meeting some of the
production cost variables in respect of inputs such as fertilizers, improved seeds, pesticides and
other equipments.

Farmers growing tomato should be mobilized to form groups so that together they could form
their own produce markets and collectively be able to establish organized market networks to
enable them to access reliable markets.

In order to improve labour availability there is need for extension agents to promote and
emphasize the adoption of labour saving technologies and to facilitate tomato farmers through a
24
local government scheme to acquire labour saving technologies by using farming equipment
such as solar energy operated water pumps or wind mills, water pumps and power tillers.

REFERENCES

Abu, O., Alumunku, M. and Tsue, P.T. (2011). Can Small-scale Tomato Farmers Flourish in
Benue State, Nigeria? Journal of Agricultural Science vol. 2 (2): 77-82.

ADB (2001). Asian Development Bank. Impact Evaluation Study on ADB'S Rural Credit
Assistance in Bangladesh, People's Republic of China, Indonesia, Nepal, Srilanka, and
Thailand. IES: REG 2001-04, ADB.

Adenuga, A.H., Muhammad-Lawal, A. and Rotimi, O.A. (2013). Economics and Technical
Efficiency of Dry Season Tomato Production in Selected Areas in Kwara State, Nigeria.
Agris on-line Papers in Economics and Informatics Volume V Number 1.

Agricultural Sector Development Programme, (ASDP). (2006). Support through Basket Fund:
Government Programme Document. [http://www.gafspfund.org/sites/
gafspfund.org/files/Documents/ ASDP_DOCUMENT.pdf ] visited on 10/9/2013.

Al-Shadiadeh, A.N., AL-Mohammady, F.M. and Abu-Zahrah, T.R. (2012). Factors influencing
adoption of protected tomato farming practices among farmers in Jordan Valley. World
Applied Sciences Journal 17 (5): 572-578.

Altarawneh, M., Altahat, E. and AL-Sharafat, A. (2012). Evaluation of vegetables farmers

participation in agricultural extension activities. American Journal of Agricultural and
Biological Sciences 7 (2): 201-206.

Ambecha O.G., Struik, P.C. and Emana, B. (2007). Tomato production in Ethiopia: constraints
and opportunities. [http://www.tropentag. de/2012/ abstracts/full/659.pdf] site visited on
25/3/2014

Anang, B.T., Zulkamain, Z.A. and Yusif, S. (2013). Production Constraints and Measures to
Enhance the Competitiveness of the Tomato Industry in Wenchi Municipal District of
Ghana. American Journal of Experimental Agriculture 3(4): 824-838.

Angula, M. (2010). Determinants of Sustainable Coffee Marketing Channel Choice and Supply
Response among Organic and Certified Smallholder Agriculture.

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Farmers: Evidence from Uganda. A Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements
for the Degree of Master of Science of Agricultural, Food and Resource Economics.
Michigan State University.

Anyiro, C.O. and Oriaku, B.N. (2011). Access and Investment of Formal Micro Credit by
Smallholder Farmers in Abia State, Nigeria. Journal of Agricultural Sciences Vol.6 (2)
pp69-76: 1391-9318.

Atherton, J. and Rees, A. (2005). Tomatoes. Crop Production Science in Horticulture Series.
CAB International.

Ayandiji, A.O.R. and Adeniyi, O.D. (2011). Determinant Post Harvest Losses among Tomato
Farmers in Imeko-Afon Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria. Global Journal
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26
 APPENDICES

APPENDIX I: LETTER OF REQUEST FOR QUESTIONNAIRE SESSION

Dear Respondent,

I am Naggayi Allen Philister, Reg. No. 16/U/021/AGD/GV a student of Kyambogo University

pursuing a bachelor’s degree of Vocational Studies in Agriculture with Education carrying out a
research study entitled “An investigation into the socio-economic and institutional factors
influencing tomato productivity amongst smallholder farmers: a case study of Mukungwe
sub-county in Masaka district”. This letter is to kindly request you to spare some few minutes to
respond to this questionnaire by ticking the appropriate choice or where possible make a brief
comment. Your responses are very important for this study and shall be treated with utmost
confidentiality and anonymity.

I thank you very much for your valuable time.

SECTION A: BIO DATA OF THE RESPONDENTS

1. Name of the respondent (Optional): ………………………………………….

2. Sex: a) Male b) Female

3. Age: a) 20-30 b) 31-40 c) 41-50 d) 51 and above

4. Level of education

a) Primary b) Secondary c) Tertiary e) None……………………

5. Time spent in the area

a). Less 3 years b) 3-5 years c) 5 years and above

27
SECTION B: THE PRODUCTIVITY OF TOMATO AMONGST SMALLHOLDER
TOMATO FARMERS IN THE STUDY AREA

Do you agree with the view that there are many tomato growers in this area?

Yes No

Do you involve or take part in tomato growing?

Yes No

If Yes, for how long have you been growing tomatoes in this area

Less than 1 year 1-5 years

6-10 years Over 11 years

What is the size of your land under tomato growing?

A quarter an acre Half an acre

1 acre 2 acres

More than 2 acres

Indicate the ownership of land under tomato growing

Rental land Own land

Borrowed from relatives Family land

All the above

What are the major reasons for growing tomatoes?

Commercial/ cash crop Home consumption and commercial

Home consumption only

What type of tomato varieties do you use?

Improved varieties Local varieties

28
SECTION C: SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE TOMATO
PRODUCTIVITY AMONGST SMALLHOLDER TOMATO FARMERS IN THE STUDY
AREA

What other activities do you do apart from being a tomato grower?

Livestock keeper Business

Privately and civil employment Other non-farm activities like carpentry

According to you, what are some of the socio-economic factors influencing tomato
productivity amongst small holder farmers?

Household size Education level

Source of income Source of labour

Others specify………………………………………………………………………………

How would you describe capability of labour force you are having for your farm operations?

Very adequate Moderately adequate

Inadequate Others specify………………………………………………..

SECTION D: INSTITUTIONAL FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE TOMATO

PRODUCTIVITY AMONGST SMALLHOLDER TOMATO FARMERS IN THE STUDY
AREA.

Do you have an organized tomato marketing system?

Yes No

Where do you sell your tomatoes after harvesting them?

In the farm Outside our area

Urban market In the farm and Urban market

Local area market Neighbors

29
Others (specify)………………………………………………………………………..

What is the main source of water for the plants in your field?

Rainfall only Rainfall supplemented with simple irrigation facilities

3) Irrigation only Others specify…………………………………………………..

How often do you get contact with extension agent?

Very frequently (more than once per month) Frequently (once per month)

Less frequently (once per more than one month) Others specify …………………..

Which mass media do you have access to? (mention all of them)

……………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………

Is there any money lending institution you can access if you wish?

Yes No

If Yes, Mention them?

……………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………

According to you, what are some of the institutional factors that influence tomato productivity?

Access to micro credit Access to extension services

Access to Market Farmers Organizations

Mass Media Others specify………………………………….

***Thank you for participating***

30