Socio-economic factors in soybean production, cosumption and marketing in Hurungwe communal lands: a case study of institutions, technology and market linkages
1996
Mudimu, G. (University of Zimbabwe, Harare (Zimbabwe). Dept. of Agricultural Economics and Extension)
Soyabean production by small scale farmers shows a declining trend since the 1978-1980 seasons. The yields have remained low compared to those obtained in the large scale commercial farming areas in the same agroecological zones, Region IIb. In mid-1980s, soybeans were promoted for diversification to improve cash incomes and food security in the smallholder farming areas in the high rainfall zones of Zimbabwe. The present study, covering five agricultural seasons (1987/88 to 1994/95), reports on socio-economic factors determining soybean production, consumption and marketing by the smallholder farmers. The study examines the linkage between improved technology transfer and adoption and promotion of home processing and use of soybean products. On-farm and demonstration trials and surveys in 1988-1990 proved that improved technologies were viable and profitable. The study suggests increasing smallholder soybean production requires a package of sustained institutional support, accessible input and viable products markets.
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