Abstract Maize is a critical crop for meeting the dietary needs of the global population, yet its production chain faces significant challenges that undermine economic viability. This study aimed to analyze the constraints faced by maize producers in the central‐south region of Angola, thereby facilitating targeted interventions. Data collection was carried out through a semi‐structured survey, including in‐person interviews with farmers to identify key production constraints. A mixed‐method SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis was employed to categorize these constraints and evaluate their impacts on the production chain. The findings indicate that farmers perceive technical constraints as the most pressing issue, followed closely by financial challenges, particularly regarding fertilizer acquisition and access to loans. The SWOT analysis revealed that despite a high national demand and a rich tradition of maize cultivation, the sector is hampered by outdated technologies among smallholder farmers. Opportunities for enhancing production include the development of new maize varieties and market expansion, while threats such as price volatility and climate risks pose significant challenges. Farmers' perceptions highlight the need for improved technical resources and financial support to boost agricultural productivity and sustainability. The analysis emphasizes a predominance of weaknesses relative to threats, underscoring the necessity for survival strategies. These strategies are essential to break the cycle of underinvestment among small‐scale farmers and to enhance the livelihoods of local producers. Therefore, key interventions should focus on enhancing access to improved seeds and technology, providing training, and implementing sociopolitical reforms to support smallholders and strengthen agricultural competitiveness.
Abel et al. (Thu,) studied this question.