Abstract
Orchards can generate financial benefits and are thus capable of alleviating poverty and food insecurity. It is important to broaden and clarify the existing body of knowledge on the dual impact of orchards ownership among indigenous farmers. This study empirically investigated the direct and indirect impact of orchards on household food security, poverty status and ownership decision of orchards. Cross sectional data were collected with structure questionnaire from randomly drawn sample of 150 farmers. Primary data collected were analyzed using relevant descriptive and inferential statistical tools (mean, percentage, standard deviation, logistic regression and chi-square). The test of hypothesis indicated significant difference in the income (poverty) level of owners and non-owners of orchards. Marketing of tree fruits generated 13% and 24% of household food security and income respectively. Multiplier index of 28% was generated by orchards ownership. Income derivable via tree diversity and food security are the most significant factors that influenced tree crop ownership decision among rural farmers. It was recommended that international organizations such as World Bank, United Nations with poverty alleviation and food security policies targeted at developing countries should consider the dual potentials of backyard orchards in this regard.
Highlights
Orchards are permanent crops whose benefits can be exploited for many years
Age: From the study it is seen that respondents aged between 51-60 years ranked highest (36.7%) (Table 2). This is a clear indication that backyard orchard owners are advanced individuals and this is due to the long gestation period of the trees
This study empirically investigated the direct and indirect impact of orchards on household food security, poverty status and ownership decision of orchards
Summary
Orchards are permanent crops whose benefits can be exploited for many years. They are common sights in rural communities in Nigeria ranging from a few stands to plantation sizes. Valuable ones in this region include; Avocado pear (Persea americana), mango (Mangifera indica), coconut (Cocos nucifera), orange (Citrus sinensis), ogbono (Irvingia gabonensis), cocoa (Theobroma cacao) and pepper fruit (Dennettia tripetala). Valuable in this context is defined as having power to generate income owing to steady demand for that commodity. The volume of the tree fruitssold by fruits marketers in market places, the bulk of which comes from the rural environment is an indication that these tree crops have income generating potentials and deserve a documented study (Chukwuji, et al 2001)
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