Analysis of adoption of improved cassava (Manihot esculenta) varieties in Ghana: implications for agricultural technology disseminations.

Abstract

The importance of cassava in the food system of Ghanaians cannot be underestimated. Research and development systems have released 25 new cassava varieties. The adoptions of these varieties have been low. The study explores factors that induce farmers to use improved cassava varieties in Ghana. The study used data from 450 cassava farmers and employed multinomial logistic model. The results revealed that apart from the farm and farmer characteristics such as farm size, distance, age and gender, perception of cassava characteristics had strong influence on the use of improved cassava varieties. Perception of disease resistance, perception of longevity in-soil and high yielding had effect on adoption of improved cassava varieties. Institutional factors including awareness, field demonstrations and extension visit significantly affected adoption. The importance of strengthening and resourcing research institutions and extension services to promote and create awareness about the existing improved cassava varieties is vital.