Factors Influencing the Scale of Agricultural Knowledge Creation in Tanzania

Abstract

This study investigated the factors influencing the scale of agricultural knowledge creation among researchers in Tanzania. Specifically, the study determined reasons for involvement in agricultural knowledge creation among agricultural researchers; investigated factors influencing agricultural knowledge creation among researchers; and found constraints that inhibit agricultural knowledge creation in Tanzania. The scale of knowledge creation framework guided the study, which employed quantitative and qualitative approaches with survey data from 132 agricultural researchers. Findings indicate that, among other reasons, researchers created agricultural knowledge because it was a requirement for career development and due to funding agencies. Findings indicate further that individual and institutional factors had a strong influence on researchers’ scale of agricultural knowledge creation. However, incompetence among researchers and inadequate support and infrastructure were found to limit the scale of agricultural knowledge creation among researchers in Tanzania. To optimize the scale of agricultural knowledge creation, research institutes must set strategies to develop researcher competencies, establish supporting infrastructure, and implement clear knowledge creation motivational policies. Conclusively, widening the scale of agricultural knowledge creation remains core to developing actionable solutions for increasing agricultural productivity and enhancing food safety and security in the country.