Browsing by Author "Mkuna, Eliaza"

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    Impact of postharvest handling technologies on income of tomato (Solanum Lycopersicum L.) smallholder farmers in Mvomero, Morogoro, Tanzania
    (Taylor & Fransic Online, 2025-01-25) Geofrey, Robert; Mkuna, Eliaza; Nyamwero, Nyamsabhi; Mang’ana, Kulwa
    This study investigates how smallholder tomato farmers in Mvomero District, Tanzania, utilize postharvest handling technologies (PHTs) and analyzes the factors influencing their adoption. We also assess the impact of PHTs on farmer income. Using a cross-sectional survey of 201 farmers, the study finds that a variety of PHTs are used, including lower-energy cool storage, Coolbot™ units, zero-energy cool chambers, and improved containers. Probit and ordinary least squares models reveal that factors such as farmer age, male gender, access to specific PHTs (Coolbot™, zero-energy chambers, improved containers), extension services, credit access, and shade use all significantly influence the adoption of PHTs. The study suggests that policymakers should design interventions considering different income levels. Strengthening extension services by increasing the number of workers and providing them with adequate resources is crucial to promote PHT adoption among tomato farmers, ultimately leading to increased income.