Information Needs of Cassava Farmer-Processors on Cassava Value Addition Technologies in Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated the information needs of cassava farmer-processors on cassava value addition technologies in Oyo State, Nigeria, to ascertain areas of information gap for farmers to maximally exploit the opportunities inherent in the product value addition. Using a multistage sampling procedure, 130 registered cassava farmer-processors were sampled and interviewed. Data were collected on respondents’ enterprise characteristics, access to information, perceived benefits and constraints to accessing information and information needs on cassava value addition. Data were analysed using percentage, mean and correlational analysis at p=0.05. Results reveal that respondents had farm size and farming experience of 2.3 ha and 20.1±13.8 years, respectively, while income was ₦273,784.6±₦458281.3. Though respondents were constrained with low income (70.0%), they reckoned that if they had access to information on value addition, their postharvest loss would be reduced (89.2%). Respondents had information gap on information needs on value addition technologies for producing cassava adhesives (1st), glucose syrups (2nd) and confectionaries (3rd). Farming experience (r = -.236), constraints (r = -.288) and access to sources of information were significantly related to respondents’ information needs. It is recommended that information on improved cassava value addition technologies be made available to cassava farmers through relevant sources, especially during emergencies coupled with hands –on training for effective application of information acquired.