Enhancing Smallholder Sheep Farmers' Livelihoods through Collective Marketing Interventions: Evidence from Mwanga District in Tanzania

Abstract

This study evaluated the effectiveness of collective marketing interventions in improving the livelihoods of smallholder sheep farmers in Mwanga district, Tanzania, addressing a significant research gap in the literature on collective marketing within this specific context. While various socio-economic interventions, including market associations, sheep producer groups, and market information systems, have been implemented in Mwanga district since 1990 to boost farmer incomes, limited research has quantitatively assessed their impact on smallholder sheep farmers' livelihoods. Using a quantitative survey design, data were collected from 283 households randomly selected from a total of 384, using questionnaires. Descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis were used to analyze the data. Results indicated that participation in collective marketing interventions significantly impacted smallholder sheep farmers' income, as influenced by gender, education, farming experience, practices, and asset ownership (cell phones, bicycles). Specifically, sheep producer groups and market information systems demonstrated the strongest positive correlation with increased income. The ANOVA results (p < 0.001) indicated a significant relationship between the independent variables (sheep producer groups, market associations, and market information systems) and the dependent variable (livelihood improvement). These interventions facilitated improved access to technology, extension services, microfinance credit, communication, and market linkages. The study concluded that strengthening producer groups and market information systems is crucial for enhancing smallholder sheep farmers' household income. These findings highlight the need for policies supporting producer group development and reliable market information dissemination for long-term sustainability. Continued investment in these interventions, coupled with strategies to address gender disparities and enhance access to education and technology, is essential for maximizing their impact and ensuring the long-term economic well-being of farming households in Mwanga district. Further research should explore the long-term sustainability and scalability of these interventions across diverse agro-ecological zones.