Towards Sustainable Maize Farming in Tanzania: Understanding Yield Predictors among Smallholder Farmers

Maize production plays a key role in ensuring global food security, particularly in providing important, low-cost, and nutritious staple food for communities worldwide. This study analyses the factors influencing maize yields among smallholder farmers in Mbinga District. Using a cross-sectional approach and multistage sampling, data were collected from 120 farmers using semi-structured questionnaires and key informant interviews. Analysis using descriptive statistics and multiple regression using the double log model highlights the critical role of farm size, seed quantity, fertiliser application, and units of labour on maize yields in the district. Recommendations from these findings advocate strengthening extension services for farmer education, improving access to affordable agricultural inputs such as seeds and fertiliser through supportive policies, and advocating modern agricultural practices for optimal input use and increased yields. It also suggests facilitating access to credit, promoting market linkages, and investing in infrastructure development to enhance productivity and competitiveness. Promoting research and innovation in agriculture is urged to tailor technologies, crop varieties, and management strategies to local conditions and build resilience to climate-related challenges. These actions can promote agricultural sustainability, livelihoods, and resilience in the study area and contribute to global food security efforts.