The Impact of Non-Agricultural Activities on Poverty Reduction in Rural Communities: A Case of Sumbawanga Rural District, Tanzania

Abstract

Agriculture is central to Tanzania's rural economy, but its 
underperformance drives many households in Sumbawanga Rural 
District to seek non-farm activities to combat poverty. This study 
investigates the impact of such activities on poverty reduction. It 
identifies drivers pushing farmers towards non-agricultural work, like 
low farm earnings and land scarcity, and explores how these activities 
affect household income. Data from 195 farming households reveals 
non-farm activities contribute significantly to income, ranging from 
43% to 50%. Despite Tanzania's decreasing poverty rate (25.7%) in 
2020, around 26 million still live in extreme poverty. The study 
suggests promoting non-agricultural endeavours like carpentry and 
animal husbandry to diversify income sources and alleviate poverty. 
Overall, it highlights the importance of non-farm activities in rural 
prosperity and recommends their integration into poverty reduction 
strategies.