Determinants of Market Participation among Vegetable Growers in West Coast Region, The Gambia
Mortala Boye *
Agricultural Economics and Extension Unit, School of Agriculture and Environmental Science, University of the Gambia, Faraba Banta Campus, P.O Box 3530, Gambia.
Lamin KM Fatty
Agricultural Economics and Extension Unit, School of Agriculture and Environmental Science, University of the Gambia, Faraba Banta Campus, P.O Box 3530, Gambia.
Abubacarr A. Bah
Agricultural Economics and Extension Unit, School of Agriculture and Environmental Science, University of the Gambia, Faraba Banta Campus, P.O Box 3530, Gambia.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aims: This study aimed to identify factors that influencing vegetable growers' decision to participate in output market in the West Coast Region of The Gambia.
Study Design: A cross-sectional data involving a sample of 138 vegetable producers were selected using multi-stage sampling technique.
Methodology: Data was collected through in-person interview using semi-structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive and Probit model.
Results: Results from Probit model analysis show that gender, access to transportation, access to credit, belonging to a farmer association, and access to market information were the main significant factors influencing vegetable growers to participate in the output market.
Conclusion: The findings highlight that government and other stakeholders dedicated to supporting the well-being of vegetable growers need to improve the existing infrastructure, strengthen farmer organizations, and enhancing access to credit and market information.
Keywords: Market participation, probit model, The Gambia, vegetable growers