Economical Assessment of NSPRI Parabolic Shaped Solar Dryer for Cowpea Flour Production

Abstract

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) is a crucial staple crop in sub-Saharan Africa, providing essential nutrients but facing challenges in storage and processing. This study presents an economic assessment of the NSPRI Parabolic Shaped Solar Dryer (PSSD) for cowpea flour production, focusing on its potential impact on food processing and economic development. Cowpea, a vital legume in sub-Saharan Africa, offers nutritional benefits but faces challenges in storage and processing due to traditional drying methods. The research explores the utilization of solar drying technology to enhance cowpea preservation and value addition. The study area, Stop Hunger Women Cooperative Investment and Credit Society Limited in Ibadan, Nigeria, served as the research site. The NSPRI PSSD, with its innovative design optimized for solar radiation absorption, provided an efficient drying environment for cowpeas. Economic analysis, including Return on Investment (ROI) of 64%, Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR) of 1.64, and Payback Period (PBP) of approximately one year and seven months, was determined to assess the viability of bean flour production using the solar dryer. The study underscores the economic viability of adopting solar drying technology for food processing, offering benefits such as reduced post-harvest losses, improved food quality, and potential employment generation. These findings provide valuable insights for stakeholders seeking sustainable solutions to enhance food security and economic growth in agricultural communities.