Who is quitting? An analysis of the dis-adoption of climate smart sorghum varieties in Tanzania

Simtowe, F and Mausch, K (2019) Who is quitting? An analysis of the dis-adoption of climate smart sorghum varieties in Tanzania. International Journal of Climate Change Strategies and Management (TSI), 11 (3). pp. 341-357. ISSN 1756-8692

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Abstract

Purpose – New agricultural technologies are continuously generated and promoted for adoption by farmers with the expectation that they bring about higher benefits than older technologies. Yet, depending on the perceived benefits, the user of the technology may choose to stop using it. This paper aims to analyze what drives farmers to dis-adopt climate smart sorghum varieties in Tanzania. Design/methodology/approach – The study uses cross-sectional farm household level data collected in Tanzania from a sample of 767 households. The determinants of dis-adoption are explored using a bivariate probit with sample selection model. Findings – The authors find that while farmers switch between different sorghum varieties, most farmers actually quit sorghum production. Older farmers and those facing biotic stresses such attacks by birds are more likely to dis-adopt sorghum. Practical implications – These findings suggest that there is scope for improving and sustaining the adoption of sorghum varieties in Tanzania once extension services are strengthened. The findings also point to a well-founded theory on the role ofmarkets in enhancing the overall sustainability of food systems. Social implications – The study findings have broader implications for understanding the sustainability of improved technology adoption Originality/value – Dis-adoption is also positively associated with the lack of access to markets underscoring the role of markets in enhancing the overall sustainability of technology adoption and food systems.

Item Type: Article
Divisions: Research Program : East & Southern Africa
CRP: CGIAR Research Program on Grain Legumes and Dryland Cereals (GLDC)
Uncontrolled Keywords: Sorghum, Tanzania, Bivariate selection, Dis-adoption
Subjects: Others > Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA)
Others > Tanzania
Mandate crops > Sorghum
Others > Climate Change
Depositing User: Mr Ramesh K
Date Deposited: 01 Nov 2018 05:11
Last Modified: 23 Jul 2019 08:02
URI: http://oar.icrisat.org/id/eprint/10919
Official URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/IJCCSM-01-2018-0007
Projects: This article falls under the diva project
Funders: Bill and Melinda Gates foundation
Acknowledgement: This work was undertaken as part of, and funded by the CGIAR Research Program on Grain Legumes and Dryland Cereals (GLDC). Funding support for this study was provided by the Bill and Melinda Gates foundation.
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