Determinants of Constraints to Indigenous Knowledge Utilization among Cassava Farmers in Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

Abstract

This study aimed at the determinants of constraints to indigenous knowledge utilization among cassava farmers in Delta State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to describe the socio-economic characteristics of respondents, verify the frequencies of indigenous knowledge utilization in farming season activities and identify the constraints faced in the use of indigenous knowledge in cassava production. A simple random sampling technique involving three stages was used to select 120 respondents for the study. Data were collected with the aid of a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using frequency count, percentage, mean and standard deviation while hypothesis was tested using Chi-Square analysis. Results showed that more middle-aged ( = 44) people were involved in farm work. Educated farmers were more at primary level (40.0%). Cassava farmers practice more of early rains planting ( = 4.69). Bush burning was done before land preparation ( = 4.51) with high utilization of hoes and cutlasses ( = 4.61 as local implements. Cassava bundles kept in cool dry place until planting time ( = 4.52) was greatly practiced. Avoidance of Diseased stem cuttings for planting ( = 4.53) were practiced. The study discovered age, household size, farming experience and annual income were not significant to indigenous knowledge utilization in cassava production in the study area. Recommendation given include training of cassava farmers on the importance of planting space, use and positioning of standard cuttings and access to and supply of high yielding cassava stem varieties as these will contribute to indigenous knowledge utilization among cassava farmers in the study area.

Keywords: Constraints, Indigenous Knowledge, Cassava, Utilization, Farmers

Cite this Article

Ovharhe OJ. Determinants of constraints to indigenous knowledge utilization among cassava farmers in Delta State, Nigeria. Journal of Crop Science and Technology. 2016; 5(1): 35–42p.