Modeling Multiple Adoption Decisions on Agricultural Technologies in Tanzania: A Multinomial Probit Analysis

Abstract

This paper examines the determinants of adoption of improved agricultural technologies among smallholder maize farmers in Tanzania. Specifically, it reports the findings of a study that employed a sample size of 1,839 smallholder maize farming households that participated in three consecutive waves of 2008 - 2009, 2010 - 2011, and 2012 - 2013 of the National Panel Survey (NPS). Multinomial probit model was used to examine the factors that influence maize producers to adopt inorganic fertilisers, improved seeds, and herbicides. Results show that extension services, information technology, gender, education level, soil quality, age and household size influenced smallholder maize farmer’s choice of what agricultural technologies to adopt. Based on the findings, the paper recommends policymakers and other development partners to take these factors on board when promoting and supporting the adoption of agricultural technologies for improved productivity and food security.

Keywords: adoption decision, agricultural technologies, smallholder maize farmers, multinomial probit model, Tanzania.

JEL Codes: Q12; Q16; and Q18