Production function analysis of Cassava-based cropping systems in River state, Nigeria

Abstract

An analysis of production function of cassava-based cropping systems in Rivers State is the main focus of this paper. A total of 180 cassava mixture growing farmers were randomly selected from three out of 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Rivers state. The three LGAs are very predominant in cassava growing. The cassava growing farmers were stratified into cassava/maize, cassava/melon, cassava/yam, cassava/maize/yam and cassava/maize/melon mixtures based on ADP (1996) field survey. Data collection was done through structured questionnaire and constant field visit during the 2000/2001 cropping season. Multiple regression model was the main tool of data analysis where different functions were tried. Results showed that Cobs-Douglas function had the best fit in explaining the relationship between output and inputs used. Labour and fertilizer were not significant at specified levels (5%) in all the crop mixtures while farm size was significant in all the cropping systems. Planting material was only significant for cassava/melon and cassava/m/yam. Recommendations therefore include timely delivery of inputs at cheaper rates devoid of undue politicization, artificial scarcity and inefficient extension services. br>
Journal of Agriculture, Forestry and the Social Sciences Vol. 3 (2) 2005: pp.51-57