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The Determinants and Extent of Crop Diversification Among Smallholder Farmers: A Case Study of Southern Province Zambia

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  • Kiru Sichoongwe
  • Lawrence Mapemba
  • Gelson Tembo
  • Davies Ng’ong’ola

Abstract

Agriculture is vital to Zambia’s economic development and is a mainstay for the livelihoods of a large proportion of the population. Agricultural production is mainly dependent on rain-fed hoe cultivation with maize as the principal staple food crop. About 18 percent of national maize production comes from Zambia’s Southern province. In order to improve food security and minimize risks associated with heavy dependence on maize, the government of Zambia has been promoting crop diversification. This study analyzed the determinants of crop diversification as well as the factors influencing the extent of crop diversification by smallholder farmers in Southern province. The study used secondary data from the Central Statistical Office of Zambia. Results from a double-hurdle model analysis indicates that landholding size, fertilizer quantity, distance to market, and the type of tillage mechanism adopted have a strong influence on whether a farmer practices crop diversification. Our findings have important implications for policies that are designed to enhance crop diversification. In particular, our results suggest the need for government to consider undertaking policies that will enhance farmers’ access to and control over land, that will provide farmers with improved access to agricultural implements like ploughs, and that will bring trading markets closer to farmers.

Suggested Citation

  • Kiru Sichoongwe & Lawrence Mapemba & Gelson Tembo & Davies Ng’ong’ola, 2014. "The Determinants and Extent of Crop Diversification Among Smallholder Farmers: A Case Study of Southern Province Zambia," Journal of Agricultural Science, Canadian Center of Science and Education, vol. 6(11), pages 150-150, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:ibn:jasjnl:v:6:y:2014:i:11:p:150
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Zhiying Xu & Zhengfei Guan & T.S. Jayne & Roy Black, 2009. "Factors influencing the profitability of fertilizer use on maize in Zambia," Agricultural Economics, International Association of Agricultural Economists, vol. 40(4), pages 437-446, July.
    2. Singh, N.P. & Kumar, Ranjit & Singh, R.P., 2006. "Diversification of Indian Agriculture: Composition, Determinants and Trade Implications," Agricultural Economics Research Review, Agricultural Economics Research Association (India), vol. 19(Conferenc).
    3. Cragg, John G, 1971. "Some Statistical Models for Limited Dependent Variables with Application to the Demand for Durable Goods," Econometrica, Econometric Society, vol. 39(5), pages 829-844, September.
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    1. Busisiwe Vilakazi & Alfred O. Odindo & Mutondwa M. Phophi & Paramu L. Mafongoya, 2025. "Socioeconomic Factors Influencing Crop Diversification Among Smallholder Farmers in Bergville, South Africa," Agriculture, MDPI, vol. 15(9), pages 1-24, April.

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    • R00 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General - - - General
    • Z0 - Other Special Topics - - General

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