Limitations and Processing Technologies of Sweet Potato Production by Farmers in Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined limitations and processing technologies of sweet potato production by farmers in Anambra State, Nigeria. Multistage sampling techniques were used for the study. Four local governments out of the 21 local governments in the State were purposely selected due to their popularity in sweet potato production. Two communities were selected from each local government to give a total of 8 communities that were used for the study. Fifteen (15) sweet potato farmers were selected from each community using simple random sampling technique and this gave a total sample size of 120 farmers. Data were generated through a structured interview schedule. Out of 120 questionnaires distributed, only 100 were retrieved and used for analysis. Percentage, frequency, mean score and standard deviation were used for data analysis. Results show that 79% of the farmers were female and their mean age was 38 years. Majority (58%) of the farmers were not aware of the technologies introduced to them while, some farmers were aware of the innovation. None of the farmers adopted the technologies. Too much attention on other crops with a weighted mean score 2.74, high perishability of sweet potato with a weighted mean score 2.63, inadequate finance with a weighted mean score 2.60, pest/disease infestation (2.48), high cost of sweet potato processing equipment (2.48) farmers' low knowledge on sweet potato value Chain (2.45), in adequate extension services with a weighted mean score 2.42 were identified by the farmers as the major constraints to sweet potato production technologies in the study area.

Paddy Rice (<i>Oryza sativum</i>) Production and Processing in Nigeria: A Review

“…Rice (Oryza sativa) serves as a fundamental food in numerous African nations and various regions globally Maji et al, 2017). Approximately one third of the Nigerian population relies on rice as a primary source of staple food (Udemezue, 2014). Recent declines in maize production have positioned rice as the second most crucial cereal globally, surpassing wheat (Imolehin et al, 2000).…”