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Differentials in returns and adoption of improved cassava varieties by farmers in Umunneochi Area of Abia State, Nigeria
Abstract
The study analysed the determinants of adoption of improved cassava varieties by farmers in Umunneochi LGA of Abia State, estimated the level of adoption of the improved varieties and compared the yield and income among adopters and non-adopters of improved cassava varieties. A multistage sampling technique was used to collect information from eighty farmers comprising forty adopters and non-adopters each. Primary data was collected through the use of questionnaire. Data were analysed by the use of descriptive statistics, probit model, six point likert rating adoption scale and Z-test statistics. The results of the descriptive statistics show that the study area is female dominated, majority of the respondents are still in their productive age, married with large family size and well experienced in cassava farming. Most of the adopters planted TMS 30001 and TMS 30555 but at evaluation stage of adoption of these cassava varieties. The probit analysis show that the coefficient of marital status, educational status and farming experience were positively signed and significant at 10% and 5% respectively. The coefficient of income was also positively signed and highly significant at 1% level. The adopters performed better than the non-adopters in terms of yield and income from the cassava varieties planted. The results therefore call for policies aimed at encouraging the farmers to increase their production and income through adoption of improved cassava varieties. There is also need for provision of free and affordable education to enable the farmer‘s access and process information on improved varieties available to them.
Keywords: Adoption and Improved Cassava Varieties