Assessing the Constraints of Value Addition to Agricultural Products of Small and Medium Scale Farmers in Chongwe District, Zambia

This study aimed to assess the constraints of value addition to agricultural products among small and medium-scale farmers in Chongwe District, Zambia. The research objectives included: identifying the constraints that hinder value addition, determining the extent to which these constraints affect the farmers, and proposing interventions to promote value addition in the district. A mixed-methods approach was employed, utilizing a case study design to collect data from 272 small and medium-scale farmers from Chongwe district. The data collection process involved structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, followed by thematic and statistical analysis. The findings revealed key constraints such as limited access to technology, inadequate financing, high production costs, lack of infrastructure, and regulatory barriers, which significantly impede farmers’ ability to enhance product quality and increase market competitiveness. The regression analysis confirmed the relationship between these constraints and the adoption of value addition practices. The study recommends improving access to technology and financing, fostering capacity-building programs, and enhancing infrastructure development to promote value addition in the district. Furthermore, policy reforms to streamline regulatory processes are necessary to create a more enabling environment for smallholder farmers. The study’s findings contribute to understanding the challenges and potential interventions for boosting agricultural productivity through value addition. It underscores the importance of a multi-faceted approach involving technology, financing, infrastructure, and policy support to empower farmers and stimulate agricultural growth in Chongwe District.