Power relations and knowledge linkages among actors in the groundnuts seed value chain in central Tanzania
Loading...
Date
2024
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Tanzania Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Abstract
Interdependence among actors enhances value chain functioning as it not only closely links
them, but also enables them to engage with each other across the chain to form a network. The
network created through these actors’ involvement and interdependence creates a necessary
condition for adoption and diffusion of incentives for the value chain development and stability.
In the groundnut seed value chain, less is known like in other crops’ value chain less is known on
issues related to power relations and dynamics that can be assessed in levels and dimesnions of
knowledge, material and income. This study aimed to assess the power relations and knowledge
linkages among the actors in the groundnut seed value chain in central Tanzania. The specific
objectives of the study were to identify the actors involved, their roles, and the influence and
importance of power relations in the knowledge aspect. The study used a qualitative approach
and a cross-sectional design. The primary data were collected through focus group discussions
and key informant interviews, while the secondary data were obtained from records related to the
groundnut crop and its value chain from the sampled districts covered by the Tropical Legumes
III project. The UCINET software statistical package for network analysis was used to analyze
the data collected. The study reveales that there is a number of actors at the village and district
levels, some of whom were found in both levels.Further, power relations among these actors are
revelead through centrality measures, emphasizing the significance of ties and linkages in shaping
knowledge exchange dynamics. The findings speak volume on the role of influential actors at both
levels, with implications for information flow, decision-making, and the overall success of the
groundnuts seed value chain. The study also found that the number of ties that the actors had in the
groundnut seed value chain affected their knowledge linkages, as well as their influence and power
over others. The study identified that NGOs, CBOs, local government, researchers, and traders
had higher influence and importance in knowledge linkages than other actors at both levels. The
study recommended prioritizing the inclusion of less powerful and influential actors and involving
important stakeholders in interventions targeting power relations through innovation platforms.
Description
Journal Article
Keywords
Actors, Value chain, power, Relation, Knowledge, Groundnut