Despite Government efforts to invest in and modernize the agricultural inputs sector, smallholder farmers still encounter counterfeit inputs, particulary maize seeds. The study aimed at analyzing role of agro-dealers in inputs distribution and the counterfeit challenges to smallholder farmers: A case of maize seeds, in Maswa District specifically (i)to determine demographic characteristics of agro-dealers in the study area(ii) to determine the distribution chain of improved maize seeds from agro-dealers to smallholder farmers,(iii)to examine regulations which guarantee good distribution of improved maize seeds in the district (iv)to determine challenges facing agro-dealers in selling improved maize seeds in the study area and (v) analyze agro-input dealers’ characteristics in relation to distribution of improved maize seeds in the district. The study population included all agro-dealers in the district with 51 respondents. Questionnaire, focus group discussions (FGD) and key informants interviews were used to collect data. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies, and percentages were computed to facilitate analysis of quantitative data. The study found that, most of the agro dealers have no demonstration plots, there is unevenly distribution of agro dealers’ in the district and most of the agro shops were not regularly inspected by government officials. The study established further that there is the problem of counterfeit agro inputs and the methods used in verifying the genuineness of the maize seeds seems to be helpless. Agro dealers shared good agronomic practices to smallholder farmers. This study recommended Maswa District council to ensure authorized distributors of inputs, agro dealers establish demonstration plots, plan and establish regular farmers’ forum. Lastly, it recommends the use of mobile phones technology to verify the genuineness of the maize seeds.