Determinants of Agricultural Extension Service Uptake Among Smallholder Grape Farmers in Dodoma, Tanzania

Agricultural extension services are essential for enhancing smallholder farmers' productivity, promoting sustainability, and improving resilience in developing countries.  Socio-economic, institutional, and technological challenges restrict such services despite their importance. However, the uptake of these services in developing countries remains uneven due to socio-economic, institutional, and technological barriers. The current study examines the determinants of extension service uptake among smallholder grape farmers in Dodoma, Tanzania. Using a probit regression model on survey data from 120 small grape farmers, the analysis reveals significant factors influencing service uptake, including farmer gender, farming experience, and grape harvests. Male farmers were less likely to use extension services than their female counterparts, demonstrating gender barriers. Farming experience positively influenced the use of extension services, with more experienced farmers recognizing the benefits. In addition, higher harvests increased the likelihood of engagement, demonstrating that profitability motivates farmers to seek expert support. The study emphasizes the need for gender-sensitive interventions, designed outreach programs for inexperienced farmers, and improved access to extension services for low-harvest farmers. The interventions designed could bridge existing gaps, improve productivity, and unlock the economic potential of the grape sector.