Constraints to the Adoption of Improved Cassava Varieties among Rural Farmers in Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract

The paper analyzed constraints to the adoption of improved cassava varieties among rural cassava farmers in Imo state, Nigeria. Specifically, it analyzed the sources of information on improved cassava varieties, identified improved cassava varieties planted, determined level of adoption of the improved varieties and identified constraints to the adoption of improved cassava varieties in the state. Multistage sampling technique was used to select a sample of 120 farmers. Data were elicited from the farmers with the aid of structured questionnaire and interview schedule and were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, mean, and bar charts. Results revealed that majority (92.7%) of the farmers obtained information on improved cassava varieties from farmers’ groups. It also revealed that NR 8082 (91.3%), NR 8083 (76.7%) and TMU 30572 (76.7%) varieties were the most planted. The result further showed that NR 8082 (63.6%), TMS 30572 (57.6%) and NR 8083 (55.0%) cassava varieties were adopted. Inadequate credit facility (M = 4.65), inadequate information (M = 4.47), land tenure system (M = 4.24) and poor government support (M = 4.11) constituted constraints to adoption of improved cassava varieties in the study area. It was recommended that innovative measures should be introduced to enhance the capability of agricultural extension service to carry out its responsibilities, particularly in enhancing adoption of improved cassava varieties in the study area.