Gender differences and profitability analysis of pepper (Capsicum species) production, Kaduna State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study analysed gender differences and profitability of pepper (Capsicum species) production in Kaduna State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was adopted. One hundred pepper farmers were selected. Primary data sources were employed with the help of a well-designed and well-structured questionnaire. The results show that 66% of pepper farmers were between 21 and 50 years old. Pepper production was profitable in the study area. Gender differences in average costs and returns in pepper production revealed that the gross margin was higher for male farmers at 137,556.51 Naira than for female pepper farmers at 109, 711.77 Naira per hectare. The gender differences in factors influencing pepper production show that age (??1), and fertiliser input (??4), were significant factors influencing pepper production among male farmers at the 1% probability level, while age (??1), labour input (??3), and fertiliser input (??4), were significant factors influencing pepper production among female farmers at the 1% probability level. The return to scale (??????) of pepper production was estimated at 2.798 for male farmers, which signifies an increase in the return to scale. The return to scale (??????) was calculated for female pepper farmers at 0.033, which implies a decrease in the return to scale. The major constraints faced by pepper farmers were: lack of fertilisers, pest and disease infestations, and inadequate capital. The study recommends that female pepper farmers should have more access to farm inputs and low interest loans to increase productivity.