Smallholder farmers’ participation in Cassava value addition practices: What drivers matter in Ghana?

Abstract

Cassava is a major staple food often promoted in Ghana. Cassava farmers in Ghana face several challenges, including high post-harvest losses and low prices due to low-value addition. Available literature on cassava value-addition practices (CVAPs) focuses more on processing due to the perishability of the crop. Moreover, the awareness of farmers and the extent of their participation in CVAPs are not known. This study aimed to identify the factors that influence cassava farmers' awareness, participation, and the extent of their involvement in processing and other CVAPs. Smallholder cassava farmers (n = 217) were sampled in the Awutu Senya West District in the Central Region of Ghana, using proportionate stratified sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured interview schedule and analysed using Multinomial regression and Cragg Double Hurdle Model. Results showed that farmers were aware of the CVAPs and viewed them as very relevant activities they could engage in to improve the marketability of their produce. About 65% were involved in at least 2 of the CVAPs. The major CVAPs that farmers engaged in were strategic sale of tubers to processors, retailers, or consumers; storage of tubers; and collective transportation of cassava products. Farmers' age, sex, household size, off-farm income, total yield, access to credit, market information, and perceived relevance of CVAPs significantly influenced their participation in CVAPs. The extent of participation was, however, influenced by sex, household size, access to processing equipment, and market information. To boost CVAPs among cassava farmers in Ghana, policies should be directed by agricultural extension services and financial institutions towards enhancing farmers’ access to market information and processing equipment. They should also provide financial literacy training to encourage increased investment by farmers in cassava production, processing, and marketing. Addressing gender dynamics within cassava value chain activities should also be a focal point in these initiatives.