Adoption Of Improved Cassava Varieties Among Smallscale Farmers In Ikot Ekpene Agricultural Zone Of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study was designed to investigate the adoption of improved cassava varieties in Ikot Ekpene agricultural zone of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The main objective of the study was to examine the rate of adoption of improved cassava varieties in Ikot
Ekpene agricultural zone. The varieties involved in the study were: TMS30572, TMS4(2)1425, NR8082, and NR 8083. The multi-stage cluster sampling technique was adopted. A total of 100 farmers were randomly selected from 10 villages in five circles within two blocks. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and multiple regression analysis. Results revealed that 68% of cassava farmers were males, while 66% either had no formal education or completed primary six level only. About 66% were located closer to markets. About 85% had 10 years farming experience, while 65% had below three hectares of land, which implied that the farmers were smallscale indeed. Regression analysis revealed that farm size and level of formal education were positively related to, and significant as the major determinants of adoption of the innovation in the zone. The major constraints faced by farmers were lack of agricultural inputs like fertilizers, insecticides, tractor; land tenancy, and high cost of labour.

Keywords: Improved cassava varieties, Small-scale farmers

Global Approaches to Extension Practice Vol. 2 (2) 2006: pp. 41-50