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Assessment Of Labour Concerns And Perceived Effects On Cocoa Farm Operations In Ghana Agyapong, Dickson; Bakang, John-Eudes Andivi; Osei, Collins Kwabena; Tham-Agyekum, Enoch Kwame; Asiedu, Prince; Ankuyi, Fred; Ntem, Supernatural
International Journal on Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources VOL 5, NO 2 (2024): IJ-FANRES
Publisher : Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources - NETWORKS

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.46676/ij-fanres.v5i2.314

Abstract

Despite the crucial role of human labour in Ghana's cocoa farming sector, the industry grapples with pressing challenges that threaten its sustainability and productivity. This study considers the intricate dynamics of labour scarcity and rising costs, focusing on the Tafo District, Ghana. We specifically collected data from 100 cocoa farmers who have been farming for over 20 years in the Tafo District using the purposive sampling method, and selected 10 cocoa labourers using a snowball technique. We conducted a descriptive analysis of the data using SPSS and Excel spreadsheet. Labour scarcity, attributed to ‘galamsey' and 'okada’ activities, was acknowledged by 95% of respondents, and 84% noted high labour costs. Farmers pointed out that labour shortages affect the timing and frequency of their farm operations. With labour scarcity attributed to illegal mining and commercial motorcycle transportation, effective government intervention to regulate these activities in agricultural areas will be required.
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.