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Type : Other Article

Adoption of Improved Cassava Production and Processing Technologies in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State,

Ajieh, Patrick Chuks

Abstract

This study examined the adoption of cassava production and processing technologies in Oshimili North Local Government Area (LGA) of Delta State, Nigeria. A sample size of 90 respondents were used for the study. Data were collected through the use of structured interview schedule. Descriptive statistics such as frequency count, mean scores and percentage count were used to summarise data, while the sigma method for calculating adoption scores was used in determining respondents’ level of adoption of technologies. Results of the study revealed that respondents were aware of most of the cassava production and processing technologies. Respondents adopted more of the technologies that are associated with enhancing cassava yield such as improved varieties, planting time, fertilizer application, and use of herbicides and pesticides to control weeds and pests infestations respectively. There was low adoption of most of the processing and storage technologies such as mechanized drying equipment, cassava chips slicing machine, and storage in trenches and sawdust. This low adoption was attributed to complexity and high cost associated with the utilization of these technologies. Important constraints to adoption of technologies include: inadequate fund, high cost of technologies, inadequate land space, high cost of technologies, and diseases and pests infestations. Based on these findings, the study recommends that a special micro – credit scheme should be established by government to enhance the financial capacity of the farmers to utilize technologies. Also, government should sponsor research on simple low- input technologies that cassava farmers and processors can conveniently use in terms of cost and complexity

Keyword: Adoption; Cassava; Production technologies; Processing technologies; Constraints;

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