Grape Value Chain Mapping In Dodoma Region, Tanzania

Abstract

Understanding value chain actors, relationships, opportunities and constraints are crucial in determining the contribution of a commodity to economic development. However, one critical component that has escaped the attention of researchers is the link between these constraints with post-harvest losses of food crops along the chains. The study mapped grape value chain in Dodoma region. Specifically, the study sought to: (1) map linkages between actors, activities and flow of the product in the grape value chain and (2) analyze pre- and post-harvest constraints contributing to grape losses. A cross-sectional research design was used to collect data from 240 farmers and 30 traders which were randomly selected. Descriptive statistics, multiple responses and sub-sector analysis were used to analyze the data collected. Results indicated that the key actors in grape value chain were input suppliers, producers, processors, wholesalers, retailers and consumers. Relationship among actors was very weak because no farmers and traders associations were identified. The major constraints along the value chain that contribute to grape losses were high production and transport costs, poor extension services, limited access to marketing information, inadequate market access, lack of credit, poor knowledge on post-harvest handling, poor roads, inappropriate post-harvest technologies and spoilage of the commodity. It is concluded that, grape value chain is hampered by both pre and post-harvest constraints that greatly contribute to post-harvest losses and addressing these constraints could improve value chain and reduce the losses. The study recommends government intervention to subsidize grape inputs and infrastructure development including feeder roads, processing and storage technologies for grape actors to benefit from various activities and reduce post-harvest losses. Furthermore, the study recommends provision of extension services, credit facilities and establishment of grape board which could oversee marketing of grapes to reduce problems associated with low grape selling price to growers.

Keywords: Grape, Value chain, Mapping, Pre- and post-harvest constraints, Dodoma.