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The aim of this study was to conduct market system analysis of bamboo products in
Ruvuma region in Tanzania. Seventy producers, two processors and twenty five traders
were interviewed in Mbinga and Songea districts. Questionnaire survey, key informant
interview and direct observation were the key methods for qualitative and quantitative
data collection. Descriptive analysis was performed for quantitative data while content
analysis was conducted for qualitative data analysis. Results showed that key actors were
producers, processors, traders and input suppliers. Main products manufactured were
winnowing trays with an average price of TZS 3400, baskets with an average price of
TZS 3900, jamanda with an average price of TZS 6000 and barbeque sticks with an
average wholesale price of TZS 550 per packet. Markets for these products were; within
the village and Songea, Mbinga and Nyasa towns. Only barbeque sticks accessed markets
in Dar es Salaam. Producers who work individually had the following gross margins;
baskets 22%, winnowers 44%, tenga 47% and jamanda 32%. Those working in informal
groups had a gross margin of 78% implying that working in groups reduced costs and
increased efficiency and productivity. Processors and traders had a gross margin ratio of
53% and 40% respectively. Inadequate policy and strategy attention to bamboo limited
value chain development. INBAR, SUA and TFS roles were observed in improving
bamboo management through supplying support services. However, there were little
efforts on skills improvement and value addition. The study suggests that producers
should organise themselves in groups to increase access to market information and
support for profit maximization. |
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