Small scale cashew nut processing enterprise is important in meeting the needs of the local processors and strategic in the current transformation agenda of the government. The study examined the gender roles and challenges of small scale cashew nut processing enterprise in Enugu North Senatorial zone of Enugu State. Seventy two small scale cashew nut processors were identified and interviewed to elicit information for the study. The study revealed that youths on the whole were found to be more effective in most of the activities of cashew nut processing namely packaging (M=2.0), grading (M=1.90), sizing (M=1.50 and cleaning (M=1.50). On the other hand, men played more effective role in two processing activities-shelling (M=2.0) and peeling (M=2.0) while women played more effective role only in one activity-roasting/frying (M=1.80). It was found that all the respondents (100.0%) were still using local processing method like open pan roasting. About 19.0% of the respondents processed 3-5kg per day while 12.4%, 2.2% and 1.4% processed 6-8kg, 9-11kg and 12-14kg per day respectively. The challenges of small scale cashew nut processors were chemical burns (M=3.86), damage of kernels by fire through non regulation of heat (M=3.67), high cost of kernels (M=3.57) and excess heat affecting the body. The study concluded that the contribution of cashew nut processing enterprise to the transformation agenda was hampered by the use of local processing equipment which also adversely affected the livelihood survival of local processors.
The study examined gender roles and challenges of small scale processed cashew nut marketers in Enugu North senatorial zone of Enugu State. Interview schedule was used to collect data from 72 respondents. The data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics. Small scale processed cashew nut marketers were dominated by female youths with mean age of 31 years and making a monthly income of between 10,000.00 -14,999.00 from cashew nut marketing. The marketing strategy mostly used by marketers of processed cashew nut products in the study area was lowering of the product price (73.6%). The roles performed by marketers of small scale processed cashew nut products across gender were effective except selling of the products in which men were not involved at all. None of the extension services received by cashew nut marketers across gender was effective. The major challenges facing small scale processed cashew nut marketing enterprise were lack of institutional support (M=3.86) and poor quality of products (M=3.26). The study therefore recommends that the government critically examines its policy thrust on cashew nut production so as to attract private sector participation.
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