African Human Development (Interdisciplinary - | 18 October 2007
Greenhouse Technology Adoption and Economic Performance in Tomato Production among Smallholder Farmers in Zimbabwe's Midlands Province
M, a, h, e, r, e, Z, v, i, n, o, y, i, ,, D, u, b, e, M, a, s, u, k, u, ,, C, h, i, m, e, d, z, i, v, a, M, u, t, a, n, g, a
Abstract
Greenhouse technology has been introduced to improve agricultural productivity in Zimbabwe's Midlands Province, particularly for tomato production among smallholder farmers. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including surveys and interviews with smallholder farmers to assess their perceptions and experiences with greenhouse technology. Farmers who adopted greenhouses reported an average increase of 40% in tomato yields compared to non-adopting farms, leading to significant economic benefits such as increased income and reduced post-harvest losses. The findings suggest that greenhouse technology adoption significantly enhances the economic performance of smallholder tomato farmers in Zimbabwe's Midlands Province. Government support for infrastructure development and extension services is recommended to facilitate wider adoption of greenhouses among smallholders.