Abstract

Communal vegetable production is a key activity in Zimbabwe, contributing significantly towards food security and rural development. A study carried out in Chinamhora District determined factors influencing tomato market channel choices. Primary data were collected through formal interviews and questionnaires included household and production characteristics, markets information and social capital. Interviews with buyers provided information on prices and farmer-market relations. The logistic model was used to analyse determinants of market choices. The study revealed that informal markets are more accessible than formal markets and produce price was the major determinant of market channel choice. Thus, informal markets offer great prospects for the development of communal farmers. The study recommended that farmers should develop effective mechanisms for collaboration and linkages and invest in market intelligence for them to improve their livelihoods.

Key words: Communal, horticulture, formal, informal, market choice, typology.