Perception of maize grain dealers and non-maize grain dealers on maize grain business :

Abstract

This study was conducted to explore the Perception of maize grain dealers and non-maize grain dealers in Lefori sub county Moyo district. A total of 80 respondents were selected using simple random selection where a semi structured questionnaire was used to collect data. The specific objectives of this study were to assess the socio demographic characteristics of maize grain dealers and non-maize grain dealers, to determine the perception about maize grain business by maize grain dealers and to determine the perceptions about maize grain business by non-maize grain dealers. This study adopted a cross sectional study research design where a quantitative approach was used to come up with the perceived views about maize grain business from the perspectives of maize grain dealers and non-maize grain dealers. The data was analyzed using SPSS where Descriptive statistics were used to analyze and interpret results. Further, the study indicates that majority of the sample population of the respondents from both the maize grain dealers and non-maize grain dealers were the female gender who were more than male gender due to their active participation and availability when conducting the study Majority of the respondents had between 1-2 and 3-4 children and adults in their households and many of them were married, a few owned transport means inform of bicycles or other means, very small number had bank accounts and majority were located less than 5km from the nearest market.. The majority of respondents identify as maize grain dealers, indicating the economic importance of maize as a cash crop in the community. The diverse perception and categorization of maize as a cash crop, food crop, or both making it to serve both commercial and subsistence purposes. The preference for Open-Pollinated Variety (OPV) maize varieties suggests an over view perception of their productivity among dealers hence influencing the choice of maize varieties in the region. Overall, these views contribute to an important understanding of the maize grain trade in Lefori Sub County. This recommends that as the perception of maize grain dealers improves, their household income tends to increase and vice versa. Stakeholders, including policymakers should collaborate with maize grain dealers to come up with strategies for improving market conditions.