Abstract:
This study sought to establish the assessment of determinants of small scale farmer participation
in tomato production and marketing in Kisoko sub county, Tororo district Uganda. It was guided
by the following objectives: To assess the influence of productivity, socio-economic and
institutional factors on assessment of determinants of small scale farmer participation in tomato
production and marketing in Kisoko sub county. The purpose of the study is therefore to assess
and document the most important socio-economic and institutional factors that influence tomato
production, and marketing in Kisoko Sub County. In addition to this, it would commit the
government to fulfilling its national obligations in development of the youth in relation to the
National development plan, the Uganda constitution and Vision 2040.This study employed a
descriptive survey design, as it is focused on collecting data to explore, find out and explain the
assessment of determinants of small scale farmer participation in tomato production and
marketing in Kisoko sub county. The sample size of this study was 50 respondents. Primary data
was collected by administering a semi-structured questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential
statistics were used to analyse the quantitative data. The study found that economic factors such
as inadequate land limited small scale farmer participation in tomato production and marketing
in Kisoko Sub County. Further, majority of the youth indicated that they participated in
production due to drop out of school. Access to credit had minimal effects on youth
participation. The study recommends that the local government should assist in creating ready
markets and facilitating linkages to other markets, for agricultural produce, this will encourage
the small scale farmers to participate in farming activities since they are assured of making sales
and increasing their profits which will contribute to employment, improved income