The role of the integrated soybean-maize-chicken value chains in sustainable food systems in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania

Summary

In Tanzania, high rates of malnutrition are largely attributed to a lack of dietary diversity among disadvantaged households. This thesis focused on exploring the potential of soybean-maize-chicken value chains to support the sustainable production of diversified diets. The study revealed that these domestic value chains are interconnected, particularly at smallholder farming systems and processing facilities. Chicken feed was an important entry point for integrating the three value chains, as maize and soybean meal are the main sources of energy and proteins. We highlight the need for improving the production of maize and soybean to improve access to adequate chicken feed, and to improve the productivity of chickens to meet the increasing demand for chicken meat and eggs. The present study strongly recommends focusing on sustainable intensification options aiming to reduce the yield gaps in crop and chicken production for the current and future population without further expansion of agricultural land.