Factors influencing participation of smallholder farmers in knowledge sharing alliances around SOFECSA field-based learning centres.
T. Mashavave, Paul Mapfumo, Florence Mtambanengwe, Régis Chikowo, Tariro Gwandu, Hatirarami Nezomba, Shephard Siziba · 2011
A study was conducted to determine factors influencing participation of smallholder farmers in knowledge-sharing in eastern Zimbabwe. Using participatory action research (PAR) approaches, farmers were mobilised into co-learning alliances to enable access, and sharing of information and knowledge on integrated soil fertility management. Results indicated that men and women generally attended village meetings in almost equal proportions, 51% and 49%, respectively. Disparities were however evident in the membership of action learning groups and the voluntary hosting of Learning centres, which were generally dominated by men (>60%). PAR approaches significantly influenced participation of resource-constrained households in co-learning platforms, suggesting that such alliances could enhance uptake of improved technologies by poorer households within these smallholder communities.