Analysing the effects of alternative livelihood on cocoa farmers in the Atwima Nwabiagya district

Abstract

This study was conducted in the Atwima Nwabiagya district; and it provides an empirical example of how a community integrates alternative livelihood activities as part of their livelihood through their own initiatives. A qualitative case study approach was used in this study. Snowball sampling technique was used to select 20 respondents for this study. Interview guide was used to glean data from the cocoa farmers. This was augmented with observation. Results show that alternative livelihood activities have significantly improved household income and consequently increased household standard of living. The study also found that the benefits of alternative livelihood activities are distributed across all households within the community as all households were engaged in at least one alternative livelihood activity. Households benefit directly from alternative livelihood through access to cash. Access to cash opened up opportunities for households to venture into other livelihood activities within the study community; and also use part to maintain their traditional livelihood. The study recommends to the district assembly to provide technical back‐up support systems to enhance the long‐term effects of any planned alternative livelihood on farmers’ incomes. Again, any planned intervention must avoid the handout syndrome so as to ensure it sustainability.