The contribution of cassava production to rural households’ income: a case study of Kasulu district, Kigoma region.

Abstract

This study aimed at assessing the contribution of cassava production to rural households’ income using Kasulu district as a case study. The specific objectives of this study were to examine the types of cassava produced in Kasulu district; to find out the market for cassava produced in the study area; to determine the contribution of cassava production to household’s income and to identify the challenges facing farmers in cassava production in Kasulu district. A cross-sectional research design was employed in collecting both qualitative and quantitative data from a sample of 98 households selected randomly from six villages. The results indicate that the majority of the households; about 72% had an income of less than Tshs. 500,000.00 per month. The major challenges of cassava production included lack of capital, diseases and pests, land scarcity and poor transportation system. The majority of households (74%) harvest less than 10 tons per season and about (61%) of households own land below 8 hectares. Cassava was viewed to contribute 16% of the total households’ income while other economic activities contributing 84%. The study concluded that cassava production in Kasulu district had significant contribution to households’ income though its contribution is limited by the level of production. The study suggests measures to address the identified challenges to allow increase of productivity as well as household income.