Too Many Assumptions: Researching Grain Markets in Tanzania

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Periodical article

Title:	Too Many Assumptions: Researching Grain Markets in Tanzania
Author:	Bryceson, Deborah Fahy
Year:	1994
Periodical:	Nordic Journal of African Studies
Volume:	3
Issue:	1
Pages:	29-45
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Tanzania
Subjects:	grain market cereals Agriculture, Natural Resources and the Environment Development and Technology Economics and Trade Bibliography/Research
External link:	https://njas.fi/njas/article/view/698/521
Abstract:	Does a market in staple foodstuffs automatically blossom when State controls are removed? Contrary to ready assumptions about the operation of market forces, it is argued here that grain markets evolve, sometimes very slowly, as conducive demand and supply conditions coalesce and as cultural, social and physical impediments, in addition to political constraints, give way. The first section of the paper outlines the main features of the market supply of grain in Tanzania and research coverage until the mid-1980s. Section 2 reviews the analytical background to a 1988 study of grain markets in five Tanzanian towns, followed by a description of circumstances contributing to the construction of the research methodology. Section 4 considers the reasons for and the ways of avoiding the data collection pitfalls that were encountered during the study. Thereafter, the advantages of the methodology are considered and the overall methodological approach is assessed from the perspective of its relevance for future grain studies. Bibliogr., notes, ref.