Contribution Of Horticulture In Livelihood Of Small Scale Farmers: A Case Of Tomato Farming In Kilolo District

ABSTRACT

In sub-Saharan Africa, tomato is an important vegetable crop as it greatly contributes to the incomes of smallholder farmers. Tanzania is among of the African countries where tomato farming contributes to the income generation of small farmers. This study sought to establish the contribution of tomatoes farming in livelihood of small farmers in Kilolo District. Specifically the study aimed to asses tomatoes farming practices, to establish the contribution of tomatoes farming in income of small scale farmers and explore different challenges facing small farmers in Kilolo District. The study adopted Cross sectional Research design in data collection to obtain current information on tomato production. Multistage sampling techniques including purposive and simple random sampling were adopted. Purposive sampling was used in selection of villages and tomato farmers and simple random sampling was used in selection of the participants from tomato farmers. The data were collected by using structured questionnaire, observation and interview. The findings show that tomato production in Kilolo district is very important cash crop which contributes in income poverty reduction. Through tomato farming small scale farmers succeed to build their houses, acquiring assets and properties, and attaining basic needs and social services like schooling and health services.