Exploring the value chain for the banana crop in Tanzania: the case study of Kagera region

The study was intended to explore the value chain for bananas, by determining value addition resulting from activities, satisfaction levels on the status of business facilitation and the challenges and opportunities facing the actors, in the banana value chain in Kagera region. The sample size was 106; 38 were producers, 32 processors and 36 traders. Multistage, simple random sampling and convenience non probabilistic sampling were used to select respondents, and locations. Semi structured questionnaires and interviews were used to collect primary data under cross sectional design. SPSS and Spreadsheet expedited data analysis. The findings show that, actors along the chain, operate under small scale, use rudimentary methods and technology, contribute insignificantly in value addition, face poor linkages among themselves, over rely to local markets, and they have no powerful associations. There is limited access to financial, extension, marketing, and training services. Age, gender and education level do not affect entrants and operations in the subsector. The main opportunities to be tapped are such as technology development, broad market worldwide, plenty of land, availability of raw materials, increase of literate population and extensive utilization of bananas and its products. The actors should employ appropriate tools, technology and methods, establish their groups/associations, extend markets and keep on innovation on value addition. The government and other supporters such as financial, training, research, donors, should extend their services to achieve efficiencies in value addition along the chain.