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Implementation evaluation of cocoa hand pollination program in Ghana Asirifi, Solomon; Amankwah, Kwadwo; Ankuyi, Fred; Tham-Agyekum, Enoch Kwame; Akowuah, Addison Kwasi; Oduro-Owusu, Akua Yeboah; Amoako, Prince Kwadwo
Pelita Perkebunan (a Coffee and Cocoa Research Journal) Vol. 40 No. 1 (2024)
Publisher : Indonesian Coffee and Cocoa Research Institute

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.22302/iccri.jur.pelitaperkebunan.v40i1.588

Abstract

The study examines the Cocoa Hand Pollination Program (CHPP) and its potential to revolutionize cocoa farming in Ghana's cocoa industry. The study employed an exploratory research design, collecting primary data through structured questionnaires from 367 cocoa farmers, 159 pollinators, and 30 extension staff. Data were analyzed descriptively. The study revealed that cocoa farmers have a relatively low level of knowledge about CHPP's objectives but perceive these goals as highly important. Farmers have successfully increased cocoa yield per hectare but face challenges in boosting overall cocoa production. Farmers exhibit a good understanding of CHPP activities and consider them crucial for program success. Pollinators have successfully enhanced natural pollination but are less positive about their contributions to socioeconomic livelihood improvement and entrepreneurship skills. Extension staff perceive the program as successful in helping farmers increase yield per hectare. However, the goals of integrating hand pollination into routine GAP activities have faced challenges. The efforts and goals of CHPP are generally valued by extension administrators who are committed to the program. Organizational and community characteristics generally favoured the program, but there were inconsistencies in the timely delivery of essential tools. This study offers valuable insights into the program's challenges and opportunities, providing essential information for policymakers and researchers working to improve cocoa production, uplift farmer livelihoods, and address similar agricultural contexts. Addressing challenges, enhancing knowledge sharing, and optimizing program elements can ensure cocoa farming's long-term sustainability and success, benefiting local farmers and the cocoa industry as a whole
A comprehensive study on the livelihood implications of transitioning from cocoa to rubber plantation in Ghana Busia, Joseph Oppong; Amankwah, kwadwo; Appiah, Patrick; Tham-Agyekum, Enoch Kwame; Bakang, John-Eudes Andivi
Pelita Perkebunan (a Coffee and Cocoa Research Journal) Vol. 40 No. 2 (2024)
Publisher : Indonesian Coffee and Cocoa Research Institute

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.22302/iccri.jur.pelitaperkebunan.v40i2.601

Abstract

The study, conducted in Manso Amenfi, Western Region, Ghana, explored the livelihood implications of transitioning from cocoa to rubber plantations. Using a cross-sectional survey with 384 participants, data revealed a decline in cocoa production levels. The socioeconomic factors that influence farmers’ land use shift behaviour were age, household size, being a household head, farm size, educational level, access extension and labour availability. The knowledge factor that was ranked first as influencing farmers shift behaviour was high price of rubber while the behavioural factor was the farmers’ personal belief that rubber plantation will do well than cocoa. The farmers agreed that rubber plantation has effect on their livelihood. The study recommends interventions to make cocoa cultivation more profitable, addressing concerns like low prices, pests, diseases, and soil fertility, emphasizing the need for support from agricultural extension officers, the Ghana Cocoa Board, and the government.
GALAMSEY'S GRIP: UNRAVELLING THE IMPACT OF ILLEGAL SMALL-SCALE MINING ON COCOA FARMING AND LIVELIHOODS Appiah, Sylvia Kyerewaa; Osei, Collins; Amankwah, Kwadwo; Tham-Agyekum, Enoch Kwame; Bakang, John-Eudes Andivi; Ankuyi, Fred
Agricultural Socio-Economics Journal Vol. 24 No. 1 (2024): JANUARY
Publisher : Socio-Economics/Agribusiness Department

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21776/ub.agrise.2024.024.1.5

Abstract

The encroachment of small-scale mining (galamsey) on fertile lands poses a significant threat to cocoa cultivation, affecting farmers' livelihoods and raising concerns about environmental sustainability. This study addresses the complex interaction between small-scale mining and cocoa farming. Conducted in the Bosome Freho district, Ashanti Region, the study employs a quantitative research design, utilizing a survey method with 316 cocoa farmers affected by galamsey. Descriptive statistics, including frequency and percentages, are applied to analyze data. Factors driving cocoa farmers to participate in galamsey include perceived profitability, low cocoa yields, high maintenance costs, and reduced cocoa prices. The perceived impact of galamsey on livelihood outcomes reveals concerns about environmental degradation, reduced farm output, soil fertility decline, and health and safety risks. Livelihood strategies employed include on-farm practices like intercropping and livestock rearing. Galamsey poses multifaceted challenges to cocoa farmers, affecting not only their livelihoods but also the environment and socioeconomic activities. The study highlights the need for comprehensive policies addressing the complex interplay between mining and agriculture, safeguarding environmental sustainability and farmers' well-being. The findings inform policymakers of the urgent need for stricter regulations, environmental safeguards, and diversified livelihood options for cocoa farmers.
Unveiling the Nexus: How Extension Delivery Methods Drive the Adoption of Improved Agronomic Practices among Cocoa Farmers in the Bono Region Obeng Agyei, Rebecca; Amankwah, Kwadwo; Tham-Agyekum, Enoch Kwame; Narh, Esther; Quaye, Jonathan; Bakang, John-Eudes Andivi
International Journal on Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources Vol 4, No 4 (2023): IJ-FANRes
Publisher : Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources - NETWORKS

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.46676/ij-fanres.v4i4.189

Abstract

The aim of this research is to investigate how different methods of delivering agricultural extension services influences the adoption of improved farming practices by cocoa farmers in the Bono Region. The study used data from 401 cocoa farmers selected through the multi-stage sampling technique. Generally, extension agents use farm visits and group meetings to facilitate the training of farmers on improved agronomic practices. Due to that, farmers perceived the use of farm visits and group meetings to be effective. We also found that farmers had a high level of knowledge on agronomic practices. The Tobit regression model was used to determine the effect of extension delivery methods on adoption of improved practices. The significant relationship found in this study between farm visits, group meetings, and the adoption of improved agronomic practices underscores the importance of targeted extension strategies that incorporate personalised interactions and group-based learning approaches to effectively promote agricultural innovation and sustainable farming practices. We recommend that the extension officers should frequently pay visits to the farmers and organise group meetings to improve the adoption of improved agronomic practices.