Dissemination pathways for cocoa research results in Ghana: The potential role of the radio

Abstract

Studies have shown that farmers do not get requisite technological information they need to aid them in their decision-making processes. Using focus group discussions, questionnaire survey, and in-depth interviews, the study elicited information on socioeconomic features, information sources and constraints from farmers in East Akim and New Juaben districts in
the Eastern Region. Over 85 per cent of farmers had not met an extension officer in a year, but 63 per cent owned a radio and rated it highly. They preferred it to other possible communication channels. It is concluded that
the radio could complement extension efforts in providing farmers’ information needs. The implications of these and other findings are discussed.