Enhancing profitability for banana smallholder farmers in Honde Valley. A case of Murara area under Mutasa district · Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Author: Madeu, Regina
Title: Enhancing profitability for banana smallholder farmers in Honde Valley. A case of Murara area under Mutasa district
Abstract: Smallholder banana farming is an important element of the landscape of Honde Valley in Mutasa District mainly in Murara .However these farmers face constrains that limit their capacity to increase profitability .The aim of this study was to analyse the socioeconomic factors that influence the profitability of banana production among smallholder farmers in Murara .The study was focused on 120 smallholder farmers in Murara .A structured questionnaire was used to collect primary data .Descriptive statistics ,multiple linear regression and gross margin analysis were used to describe smallholder banana farmers ,identify production determinants and examine the restrictions that affect banana profitability .The findings revealed that the majority of banana smallholder farmers are A1 farmers with a land holdings between 1 to 5 hectares .They face barriers to accessing credit and extension services. The multiple linear regression analysis R squared 71.9% .The study highlighted the need to address the production constraints faced by smallholder through strengthening extension ,advisory services and establishment of community –based storage facilities.
Date: June 2025
Publisher: BUSE
Keywords: Smallholder banana farmers; Profitability socioeconomic factors; Production constrains
Supervisor: Dr. N Mafuse