Assessing the adoption of multiple Integrated Striga Management (ISM) technologies among smallholder maize farmers in rural Northern Nigeria.

Abstract

The adoption of Integrated Striga Management (ISM) technology has been recommended as an effective approach to mitigating Striga infestation, a significant challenge to maize productivity and food security. Despite substantial efforts by stakeholders to promote its deployment, adoption levels remain low. This study utilized data from 643 smallholder farmers sampled across Bauchi and Kano states in Northern Nigeria. A multivariate probit (MVP) model and a zero-truncated Poisson model were employed to examine simultaneous interdependent adoption decisions of ISM technology and adoption intensity among maize farmers. The findings reveal interdependencies among ISM technology components, with some acting as substitutes while others function as complements. The analysis also highlights that household socio-economic characteristics, farm-level features, psychological traits, and institutional factors significantly influence both ISM technology adoption and the intensity of its use. The study discusses policy implications, emphasizing the need to target these identified factors to enhance the adoption and intensification of ISM technology components in the study area.