Information-Related Barriers Affecting Market Access Among Youth Owned Agribusinesses in Iringa Municipality

Author

Irene Alphonce Mdegipala, Blandina Kisawike


Abstract

 The study assessed information-related barriers affecting market access among youth-owned agribusinesses in Iringa Municipality, Tanzania. The study focused on three areas of information-related barriers, namely access to market price information, access to buyer information and access to market networks. A mixed-methods approach using a convergent research design was employed. A sample of 110 youth-owned agribusiness operators was selected through simple random sampling. Five key informants, comprising two Municipal Agricultural Officers, two Cooperative Leaders and one Youth Agribusiness Mentor, were selected purposively. Primary data were collected using questionnaires and interview guides. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics in the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. The findings showed that limited access to market price information made it difficult for youth-owned agribusiness operators to know suitable selling prices and identify profitable markets. Limited access to buyer information also reduced the ability of youth to connect with reliable buyers and secure better market opportunities. The findings further showed that weak market networks limited contact with traders, processors, cooperatives and other potential buyers. These information-related barriers reduced the ability of youth-owned agribusinesses to reach wider markets, negotiate better prices and maintain stable market relationships. The study concludes that inadequate market information and weak market networks are important barriers affecting market access among youth-owned agribusinesses in Iringa Municipality. The study recommends improving access to timely market price information, strengthening links between youth agribusinesses and buyers, improving agricultural extension services and supporting youth participation in cooperatives and other market networks. Further studies may examine how digital market information platforms can improve market access among youth-owned agribusinesses in Tanzania.



Keywords

Information-related barriers, market access, youth-owned agribusinesses, market information, Iringa Municipality.



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References


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