Abstract:
This paper explores the impact of large-scale agricultural investment on household
livelihood outcomes among smallholder farmers in Kilombero Valley, Tanzania. The study
used qualitative and quantitative data from a sample of 376 households. Quantitative data
analysis employed independent samples t-test and multiple linear regressions. There were
associations in livelihood outcomes and household headship (p < 0.05). The age of household
head, years of schooling, household size, land size, group membership, household
participation in the out-grower scheme, and livelihood strategies had influence on household
livelihood outcomes (p < 0.05). Household livelihood outcomes depend on household socio economic characteristics and household participation in LSAI. The study recommends Local
Government Authorities, non-governmental organization to help farmers to diversify
livelihood strategies, group strengthening, promoting gender dialogues in the community to
transform gender norms that discriminate against women and female headed households,
increase representation of out-growers in every decision making process that affects their
livelihood outcomes.
