How Efficient is Green Revolution Technology Adoption in Ghana?

Abstract

The study seeks to find out the effects of Green Revolution technology adoption on output/efficiency of agricultural households in Ghana. The method of analysis involves Battese and Coelli's (1993; 1995) one-step estimation of a stochastic frontier model. Technology adoption was found to have positive effects on output. Households' efficiency was also greater for the following: male-headed households, large households and small farms. Other factors that increase efficiency are living close to extension centres, in the rural areas and in the south of the country. It is recommended that technology adoption be taken seriously so as to realize its full impact on output. Also, households must be encouraged to form farmer groups as an important source of farm labour and more extension services must be provided. Above all, the problem of lack of effective markets must be addressed through a more effective management of the ongoing liberalization Programme.

Journal of the Ghana Science Association Vol. 10 (2) 2008: pp. 103-115