Factors Affecting Farmers’ Market Participation Decision and Amount of Cassava Supplied to the Market in Wolaita Zone, Snnpr, Ethiopia

Abstract

This study aimed at identifying factors affecting decision  of farmers’ participation in cassava market and marketable supply of cassava. A survey was carried out on six randomly selected kebele administrations in Gassuba and Kindo Koysha Woreda of wolaita zone. Both primary and secondary sources of data were used to conduct this study. Primary data for this study were collected from 122 farmers, 48 traders and 23 consumers through application of appropriate sampling procedures and secondary data were obtained from written documents. Data were collected by using both close ended and open ended questionnaire through personal interview, group discussion, and key informant interview. Inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. Determinants of intensity of farmers’ participation in cassavs market and factors affecting amount of cassavs supplied to the market were identified by applying Heckman two stage models, which are explained by probit model for cassava market participation decision and amount of cassava supplied to the market. The Heckman-two stage model regression showed that variables such cassava production experience, training and  improved cassava production inputs affects the market participation and amount of cassava supplied to the market positively and significantly.  Therefore,  policy  initiatives  aiming  at  increasing  farmers’  access  to  improved  cassava  inputs  and Production  technologies,  and training on cost  harvest  loss,  improving  marketing  information  system   and  extension  service  provisions  are recommended to intervene on  the development of cassava value chain in the study area. Keywords: Marketed supply, marketable supply, participation decision