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Cocoa Farmers and Agrochemical Safety Compliance: Empirical Insights from Ghana Tham-Agyekum, Enoch Kwame; Ankuyi, Fred; Jones, Ebenezer Osei; Tierku, Albert Kuuzaa; Sarfo, Derrick Kwadwo; Bakang, John-Eudes Andivi; 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.v40i1.589

Abstract

This study addresses the lack of empirical insights into the adherence of cocoa farmers to safety protocols. Specifically focused on agrochemical safety compliance, the research employs a quantitative approach and collects data from 385 cocoa farmers in the Nzema East Municipal through a structured questionnaire. The analysis utilizes mean, standard deviation, frequency, percentages, and Tobit regression models. The study finds that cocoa farmers exhibit a high level of knowledge and preparedness in agrochemical handling practices, positive agrochemical usage practices, and proper agrochemical storage practices. Cocoa farmers employ integrated pest management strategies, using diverse fertilizers, insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides to address crop health and productivity challenges. Tobit regression results showed that the extent of use of agrochemicals was significantly influenced by marital status, household size, farming experience, cooperative membership, and access to spraying machines and personal protective equipment. The research highlights the importance of integrating safety considerations into agricultural policies and practices, emphasizing the role of knowledge and awareness in influencing farmers' practices. It suggests the need for targeted interventions and educational programs to enhance agrochemical safety compliance among cocoa farmers.
Gender Dynamics in Roles, Resources, Control, Decision Making and Household Welfare in Ghana: Implications for Agricultural Sustainability. Amoako, Prince Kwadwo; Ayerakwa, Margaret Frimpong; Tham-Agyekum, Enoch Kwame; Ankuyi, Fred; Bakang, John-Eudes Andivi; Mensah, Winnefred; Jones, Ebenezer Osei
International Journal on Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources Vol 6, No 3 (2025): IJ-FANRES
Publisher : Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources - NETWORKS

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.46676/ij-fanres.v6i3.509

Abstract

This study investigates the gender dynamics in cocoa farming households across the Ashanti and Western South regions, focusing on their implications for agricultural sustainability. Using a cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from 401 cocoa farmers through structured questionnaires. Data was analysed using descriptive (frequency, percentage) and inferential statistics (independent samples t-test). Results indicate that men dominate physically demanding tasks such as land preparation (82.8%) and pesticide application (85.0%). In comparison, women are more involved in less intensive tasks like drying cocoa beans (33.2%) and reproductive roles such as food preparation (74.6%). Men control essential resources, including land (82.3%), capital (78.6%), and agricultural tools, while women have greater control over processing resources like drying mats (20.4%). Decision-making is similarly male-dominated, with men leading in areas like farming inputs (82.0%) and household security (85.5%), although women exert influence in daily food decisions (42.4%). Despite these disparities, no significant gender-based differences were found in outcomes for yield, income, or food security. The study highlights the need for gender-inclusive policies and targeted interventions to promote equitable access to resources, enhance women's decision-making capacity, and encourage their involvement in sustainable cocoa farming.
IN THE LIGHT OF ADOPTION THEORIES: WHY DO AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION AGENTS USE SOCIAL MEDIA? Tham-Agyekum, Enoch Kwame; Jones, Ebenezer Osei; Bakang, John-Eudes Andivi; Asiedu, Prince; Aidoo, Danley Colecraft; Mensah, Emmanuel Anobir
Agricultural Socio-Economics Journal Vol. 23 No. 4 (2023): OCTOBER
Publisher : Socio-Economics/Agribusiness Department

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21776/ub.agrise.2023.023.4.5

Abstract

This study highlights a significant gap between theoretical understanding and the actual use of social media tools by agricultural extension agents (AEAs). A quantitative study was undertaken to give clear understanding on how various theoretical perspectives in the area of adoption of social media play out in reality among the agricultural extension agents. A sample size of 418 AEAs in the Eastern Region, Ghana were selected using the snowballing sampling technique. The following constructs were rated highest by the respondents; observability, (innovation diffusion theory), continuance intention (theory of task-technology fit), perceived usefulness of social media (theory of reasoned action, theory of planned behaviour, theory of acceptance model) and performance expectancy (unified theory of acceptance and use of technology). Majority of the AEAs highly use social media. High cost of repair of devices, high charges by network providers and lack of knowledge of the best social media use were perceived as substantial challenges. The results show that extension agents must be encouraged to leverage social media platforms to provide personalised support, answer farmers' queries, and offer guidance, leading to better adoption of recommended agricultural practices.
Cocoa Farmers’ Adaptation to Climate Extremes in Atwima Nwabiagya North District, Ghana Tham-Agyekum, Enoch Kwame; Boansi, David; Ankuyi, Fred; Edeafour, Patrick Padlass; Okorley, Ernest Laryea; Jones, Ebenezer Osei; Prah, Stephen; Rakotomarolahy, Patrick; Sharma, Rakesh; Bakang, John-Eudes Andivi
Jurnal Ekonomi Pertanian dan Agribisnis Vol. 8 No. 1 (2024)
Publisher : Department of Agricultural Social Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, Brawijaya University

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar

Abstract

This study examines the adaptation strategies of cocoa farmers to climate extremes. The study multistage sampling technique to sample 400 farmers from 10 communities. Primary data was gathered with the use of structured questionnaire and the data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. A significant proportion of respondents have experienced extreme climate events, with drought (73%), flooding (64.25%) and heatwaves (56.75%) being the most commonly reported experiences. The most commonly used adaptation strategies reported are mixed cropping (73.50%), planting improved crop variety (68.75%), and cover cropping (70%). Adopting mixed cropping was influenced by education and access to extension. The drivers of adopting improved plant/seed variety were farm size, number of farms owned by a farmer, access to extension, access to credit and membership in a farmer cooperative. Distance to farm, education extension access and membership in farmer cooperative influences the adoption of cover crops as means to mitigate extreme climate. In the event of flooding, farmers are likely to adapt all the three main adaptation strategies. The promotion of farmer cooperatives should be a top priority for the stakeholders in the cocoa value chain. Top priority should be also given to the breeding of crop varieties that are resistant to extreme climatic conditions.
The Gender Differential Analysis: Knowledge, Attitude, Practices and Aspirations of Pesticide Use Among Cocoa Farmers In Asamankese Cocoa District, Ghana Acheampong, Angela Otiwaa; Tham-Agyekum, Enoch Kwame; Ankuyi, Fred; Bakang, John-Eudes Andivi; Okorley, Ernest Laryea; Aidoo, Danley Colecraft; Jones, Ebenezer Osei
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.v4i4.166

Abstract

Attempts to attain flawless agricultural production are still hampered by a range of restrictive factors including water scarcity, climate change, plant pests and diseases. Worries about the negative and unpleasant repercussions of pesticides on health are evolving in developing countries including Ghana. Cocoa farmers’ knowledge awareness, attitude, practices and skills in handling pesticides and the potential hazards it poses to them are vital in preventing pesticide exposure and hazards. This study examines the knowledge, attitudes, practices and aspiration of cocoa farmers in Ghana regarding pesticide use and the potential hazards it poses to their health. The paper highlights the importance of understanding the diverse roles and perspectives of male and female farmers in agricultural production. The study uses a quantitative approach and a cross-sectional descriptive approach to analyze data from 364 cocoa farmers in the Asamankese Cocoa District. The study found that both male and female cocoa farmers have a positive attitude towards pesticide usage, and their knowledge of pesticide handling practices is adequate. The study also found that male and female farmers have different levels of knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding pesticide use. The findings suggest that there is a need for increased awareness and education on safe pesticide handling practices to prevent pesticide exposure and its negative health effects on farmers.