Influence of exogenous variables on interaction of small scale farmers with other actors in agricultural projects: a case of RIPAT-SUA project in Morogoro Region, Tanzania

Abstract

Exogenous variables have the potential to influence interactions but have received little attention in the literature. Guided by Ostrom’s Institutional Analysis and Development (IAD) framework and social exchange theory (SET), the study described the patterns of farmers-other actors’ interactions, and determined exogenous factors influencing interactions using RIPAT-SUA project as a case study. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected through questionnaire survey and Focus Group Discussion (FGD)/key informant interview respectively. Multiple regression and content analysis were used to analyse quantitative and qualitative data respectively. Farmers-other actors’ interactions in agricultural projects increase with a decrease in distance from the market. Diversity of crops/livestock produced and the number of resources shared by actors had statistically significant influence on interactions. The RIPAT approach plays a crucial role in shaping the interactions; it influences the type of actors the farmers interact with and the pattern of interactions. The findings support the IAD and the SET, which, respectively, postulate that biophysical conditions (in this case proximity to market), and cost and rewards (in this case resources shared) are driving forces for farmers’ interactions. Rather than referring to it just as cost and rewards as the SET does, it should be explicit that both material and social benefits are important in shaping interactions. The study recommends ensuring that agricultural interventions are rewarding to farmers. Designing and implementation of agricultural projects ought to employ the RIPAT approach to spur fruitful interactions.