Abstract—In Ghana, rural people, mostly farmers, experience food insecurity. In bargaining with marketers, farmers tend to lose profits. The use of traditional weights and measures led to inefficient transactions. These difficulties have negatively affected farmers’ productivity, calories intake, and international competitiveness. This research investigates how standard weights and measures can secure farmers’ profits at local markets. Using a random selection of 312 farmers for the questionnaire survey at two markets, we examine the impact of current pricing methods on farmers’ profits and advantages of standard weights and measures for farmers. The results show that price decision-making was based on three primary methods: (1) traditional weights and measures, (2) negotiation with individual marketers, and (3) negotiation with market queens. Markets queens and traditional measures negatively influenced farmers’ profits. Farmers’ perceptions showed that standard weights and measures would not only increase their profits at local markets but also enhance their international competitiveness.
Factors influencing the intensity of market participation among smallholder w...AI Publications
Participation in commercial agriculture holds considerable potential for unlocking suitable opportunity sets necessary for providing better incomes and sustainable livelihoods for small scalefarmers. In developing countries like Ethiopia, most smallholder farmers are characterized by poor market participation because they lack market information on marketing of agricultural products. This study examined factors that influence the intensity of market participation among smallholder farmers in JabiTehnan districtusing survey data collected from randomly selected 120 farmers. The aim of this study was to analyze market participation of smallholder wheat farmers in JabiTehnan district. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected from primary and secondary data sources using cross sectional data.Probit model regression result showed that, perception of wheat market price, quantity of wheat produced, size of land allocated for wheat and frequency of extension contact had significant and positively effect on market participation decision, while distance to nearest market, family size had significant negative effect. Based on the study policy interventions like family planning, awareness to farmers to supply wheat to the market when price is fair for them, strength extension service and infrastructure like market access, improve land management practice by use of a right input at a right timeas a means to enhance wheat market participation.
Analysis of market participation by rice farmers in southern nigeria.Alexander Decker
This study analyzed factors affecting market participation among smallholder rice farmers in southern Nigeria. A survey was conducted with 150 farmers. Results showed that factors like higher crop production levels, larger land sizes, use of improved seeds, access to market information, group participation, and contractual agreements positively influenced farmers' ability to participate in output markets. However, lack of timely market information, transportation issues, and limited access to extension agents posed challenges. The study concluded that improving smallholder farmers' access to resources, market information, and group participation could help them better commercialize and contribute to economic growth in rural areas.
The document summarizes the launch event of the Agricultural Policy Research in Africa (APRA) program. APRA is a five-year research program analyzing pathways to agricultural commercialization in Sub-Saharan Africa. It aims to understand the impacts of commercialization on empowering women and girls, reducing poverty and improving food security. The launch event provided an overview of APRA's research methodology, focus countries, and expected outcomes to inform policies promoting equitable agricultural development in Africa.
Factors Influencing Smallholder Potato Farmers’ Choice Decisions of Market Ou...ijtsrd
Potato Solanum tuberosum L. is an important crop that plays a major role in food security and poverty reduction to a large proportion of rural farmers in the North West than other parts of Rwanda. However, potato is a perishable product which necessitates an effective choice decision of the market outlet. This paper presents factors influencing smallholder potato farmers’ choice decisions for market outlets in Rwanda. Through a multistage sampling technique, cross sectional data were collected from 585 smallholder potato farmers in Musanze and Nyabihu Districts.Both descriptive statistical methods and econometrics methods were used for data analysis. Multivariate probit model was used to determine the factors influencing smallholder potato farmers’ choice decision to sell to particular market outlets. Results showed that farming experiences, level of education of decision maker, household size, household income, household assets, access to market information and distance to market significantly influenced the smallholder potato farmers’ choice decisions of selling to consumer, retailer, wholesaler, cooperative, collection centres and processors market outlets. The study recommends establishment of structured market systems to improve access to potato market information. This should be supported by agricultural financingfor improved seeds acquisition and other productive inputs to enable farmers to increase surplus potato supplied to market. Improving the farmers’ education in marketing would also help them to effectively deliver potato to efficient market outlet. Patrice Mugenzi | George Owour | Hillary K. Bett "Factors Influencing Smallholder Potato Farmers’ Choice Decisions of Market Outlets in Musanze and Nyabihu Districts, Rwanda: A Multivariate Probit Model" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-5 | Issue-4 , June 2021, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.compapers/ijtsrd43632.pdf Paper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.comengineering/agricultural-engineering/43632/factors-influencing-smallholder-potato-farmers’-choice-decisions-of-market-outlets-in-musanze-and-nyabihu-districts-rwanda-a-multivariate-probit-model/patrice-mugenzi
Determinants of Tomato Smallholder Farmers Market Outlet Choices in West Shew...Premier Publishers
This document analyzes the determinants of market outlet choices for tomato smallholder farmers in West Shewa, Ethiopia. A survey was conducted with 300 farmers across 12 villages and 3 districts selected based on tomato production. Descriptive statistics found retailers were the most common outlet. A multivariate probit model was used to analyze the effects of variables on choices for wholesalers, retailers, and consumers. The model found 5 variables significantly affected wholesaler choices, 4 variables affected retailer choices, and 3 variables affected consumer choices. The model showed good fit and explanatory power. Distance to market, access to credit, family size, education, and tomato production volume were among the factors found to significantly influence farmers' outlet choices.
Commercialization of Smallholder Teff Producers in Ethiopia: Constraints and ...Premier Publishers
This study was designed to assess the smallholder farmers’ teff production and marketing constraints and opportunities in Guduru District, Horro Guduru Wollega Zone, Ethiopia. Two-stages sampling procedure was followed to select 154 teff producer farmers from four randomly selected kebeles. An interview schedule was used to collect household survey data during the 2016/2017 farming season. The Household Commercialization Index was used to assess the levels of market participation. The results revealed that about 78% of sampled farmers sold teff during a production year of 2016/2017. The Kendall’s coefficient of concordance result revealed that production constraints like high cost of fertilizer and delayed delivery, credit problem, shortage of land, unpredictable rainfall, limited improved seed acquisition, insufficient labor, loss of soil fertility and marketing constraints like poor road, limited alternative outlets, fluctuation of teff price, low bargaining power of farmers, inadequate market information and week farmers’ cooperative were pressing constraints of teff production and marketing in study area in order of their importance. The implication of this finding is that promotion of better access to communication facilities and institutional services may significantly contribute to promoting market participation and hence commercialization of teff producer smallholders.
Roasted Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea): an emerging income source for ...IFPRI-PIM
This poster was given by Charlie Mbosso (Bioversity International), as part of the Annual Scientific Conference hosted by the CGIAR Collaborative Platform for Gender Research. The event took place on 5-6 December 2017 in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, where the Platform is hosted (by KIT Royal Tropical Institute).
Read more: http://gender.cgiar.org/gender_events/annual-scientific-conference-capacity-development-workshop-cgiar-collaborative-platform-gender-research/
This paper focused on consumer ethnocentrism and purchase intention of home-grown wheat flour
among commercial bakers in Nigeria. Despite the improved wheat flour production in Nigeria recently, the
majority of wheat flour consumers (commercial bakers) still prefer the foreign-grown wheat flour to the homegrown
wheat flour. This preference may not be unconnected to distrust for locally made products in terms of
quality.
Factors influencing the intensity of market participation among smallholder w...AI Publications
Participation in commercial agriculture holds considerable potential for unlocking suitable opportunity sets necessary for providing better incomes and sustainable livelihoods for small scalefarmers. In developing countries like Ethiopia, most smallholder farmers are characterized by poor market participation because they lack market information on marketing of agricultural products. This study examined factors that influence the intensity of market participation among smallholder farmers in JabiTehnan districtusing survey data collected from randomly selected 120 farmers. The aim of this study was to analyze market participation of smallholder wheat farmers in JabiTehnan district. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected from primary and secondary data sources using cross sectional data.Probit model regression result showed that, perception of wheat market price, quantity of wheat produced, size of land allocated for wheat and frequency of extension contact had significant and positively effect on market participation decision, while distance to nearest market, family size had significant negative effect. Based on the study policy interventions like family planning, awareness to farmers to supply wheat to the market when price is fair for them, strength extension service and infrastructure like market access, improve land management practice by use of a right input at a right timeas a means to enhance wheat market participation.
Analysis of market participation by rice farmers in southern nigeria.Alexander Decker
This study analyzed factors affecting market participation among smallholder rice farmers in southern Nigeria. A survey was conducted with 150 farmers. Results showed that factors like higher crop production levels, larger land sizes, use of improved seeds, access to market information, group participation, and contractual agreements positively influenced farmers' ability to participate in output markets. However, lack of timely market information, transportation issues, and limited access to extension agents posed challenges. The study concluded that improving smallholder farmers' access to resources, market information, and group participation could help them better commercialize and contribute to economic growth in rural areas.
The document summarizes the launch event of the Agricultural Policy Research in Africa (APRA) program. APRA is a five-year research program analyzing pathways to agricultural commercialization in Sub-Saharan Africa. It aims to understand the impacts of commercialization on empowering women and girls, reducing poverty and improving food security. The launch event provided an overview of APRA's research methodology, focus countries, and expected outcomes to inform policies promoting equitable agricultural development in Africa.
Factors Influencing Smallholder Potato Farmers’ Choice Decisions of Market Ou...ijtsrd
Potato Solanum tuberosum L. is an important crop that plays a major role in food security and poverty reduction to a large proportion of rural farmers in the North West than other parts of Rwanda. However, potato is a perishable product which necessitates an effective choice decision of the market outlet. This paper presents factors influencing smallholder potato farmers’ choice decisions for market outlets in Rwanda. Through a multistage sampling technique, cross sectional data were collected from 585 smallholder potato farmers in Musanze and Nyabihu Districts.Both descriptive statistical methods and econometrics methods were used for data analysis. Multivariate probit model was used to determine the factors influencing smallholder potato farmers’ choice decision to sell to particular market outlets. Results showed that farming experiences, level of education of decision maker, household size, household income, household assets, access to market information and distance to market significantly influenced the smallholder potato farmers’ choice decisions of selling to consumer, retailer, wholesaler, cooperative, collection centres and processors market outlets. The study recommends establishment of structured market systems to improve access to potato market information. This should be supported by agricultural financingfor improved seeds acquisition and other productive inputs to enable farmers to increase surplus potato supplied to market. Improving the farmers’ education in marketing would also help them to effectively deliver potato to efficient market outlet. Patrice Mugenzi | George Owour | Hillary K. Bett "Factors Influencing Smallholder Potato Farmers’ Choice Decisions of Market Outlets in Musanze and Nyabihu Districts, Rwanda: A Multivariate Probit Model" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-5 | Issue-4 , June 2021, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.compapers/ijtsrd43632.pdf Paper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.comengineering/agricultural-engineering/43632/factors-influencing-smallholder-potato-farmers’-choice-decisions-of-market-outlets-in-musanze-and-nyabihu-districts-rwanda-a-multivariate-probit-model/patrice-mugenzi
Determinants of Tomato Smallholder Farmers Market Outlet Choices in West Shew...Premier Publishers
This document analyzes the determinants of market outlet choices for tomato smallholder farmers in West Shewa, Ethiopia. A survey was conducted with 300 farmers across 12 villages and 3 districts selected based on tomato production. Descriptive statistics found retailers were the most common outlet. A multivariate probit model was used to analyze the effects of variables on choices for wholesalers, retailers, and consumers. The model found 5 variables significantly affected wholesaler choices, 4 variables affected retailer choices, and 3 variables affected consumer choices. The model showed good fit and explanatory power. Distance to market, access to credit, family size, education, and tomato production volume were among the factors found to significantly influence farmers' outlet choices.
Commercialization of Smallholder Teff Producers in Ethiopia: Constraints and ...Premier Publishers
This study was designed to assess the smallholder farmers’ teff production and marketing constraints and opportunities in Guduru District, Horro Guduru Wollega Zone, Ethiopia. Two-stages sampling procedure was followed to select 154 teff producer farmers from four randomly selected kebeles. An interview schedule was used to collect household survey data during the 2016/2017 farming season. The Household Commercialization Index was used to assess the levels of market participation. The results revealed that about 78% of sampled farmers sold teff during a production year of 2016/2017. The Kendall’s coefficient of concordance result revealed that production constraints like high cost of fertilizer and delayed delivery, credit problem, shortage of land, unpredictable rainfall, limited improved seed acquisition, insufficient labor, loss of soil fertility and marketing constraints like poor road, limited alternative outlets, fluctuation of teff price, low bargaining power of farmers, inadequate market information and week farmers’ cooperative were pressing constraints of teff production and marketing in study area in order of their importance. The implication of this finding is that promotion of better access to communication facilities and institutional services may significantly contribute to promoting market participation and hence commercialization of teff producer smallholders.
Roasted Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea): an emerging income source for ...IFPRI-PIM
This poster was given by Charlie Mbosso (Bioversity International), as part of the Annual Scientific Conference hosted by the CGIAR Collaborative Platform for Gender Research. The event took place on 5-6 December 2017 in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, where the Platform is hosted (by KIT Royal Tropical Institute).
Read more: http://gender.cgiar.org/gender_events/annual-scientific-conference-capacity-development-workshop-cgiar-collaborative-platform-gender-research/
This paper focused on consumer ethnocentrism and purchase intention of home-grown wheat flour
among commercial bakers in Nigeria. Despite the improved wheat flour production in Nigeria recently, the
majority of wheat flour consumers (commercial bakers) still prefer the foreign-grown wheat flour to the homegrown
wheat flour. This preference may not be unconnected to distrust for locally made products in terms of
quality.
The document summarizes a study on vegetable handling practices, distribution, and wholesale profitability in Abinchi night market in Kumasi, Ghana. It finds that vegetables are transported from farms to the night market by open and closed trucks, mini vans, and taxis. At the market, vegetables are packed in jute sacks and have a shelf life of 3-7 days depending on the vegetable. The study analyzes the financial records of wholesalers and finds that vegetable wholesale was most profitable in July, August, and September.
Postharvest status of plantains in some selected markets in Ghanaresearchagriculture
Plantain production and marketing has been done traditionally, as the problem of
food
production shortage during the last decade in Ghana has temporarily been solved
with
import substitute staple like rice.
A survey of marketing and utilisation of plantain in
twenty
-
two urban markets from five regions of Ghana revealed that fruit maturity has
important criteria to all players in the plantain postharvest system.
Unavailable, improper
infrastructure and facilities coupled with unreliable transportation system and poor road
network shorten the shelf
-
life thus causing rapid ripening with subsequent increase in
postharvest losses.
The practiced technology for enhancing ripening of fruits, though
low, was appropriate
and cost effective. The role of market queens in the retailing of
the product had a
negative effect on the rate of returns of the retailers, which
contributed to about 45% of
the traders being seasonal sellers. However with about 60%
of respondents had basic education and their level of record and book keeping was
impressive.
Postharvest status of plantains in some selected markets in Ghanaresearchagriculture
Plantain production and marketing has been done traditionally, as the problem of food production shortage during the last decade in Ghana has temporarily been solved with import substitute staple like rice. A survey of marketing and utilisation of plantain in twenty-two urban markets from five regions of Ghana revealed that fruit maturity has important criteria to all players in the plantain postharvest system. Unavailable, improper infrastructure and facilities coupled with unreliable transportation system and poor road network shorten the shelf-life thus causing rapid ripening with subsequent increase in postharvest losses. The practiced technology for enhancing ripening of fruits, though low, was appropriate and cost effective. The role of market queens in the retailing of the product had a negative effect on the rate of returns of the retailers, which contributed to about 45% of the traders being seasonal sellers. However with about 60% of respondents had basic education and their level of record and book keeping was impressive.
Article Citation:
Pearl A. Adu-Amankwa, Bernard Agyeman Boateng.
Postharvest status of plantains in some selected markets in Ghana
Journal of Research in Agriculture (2011) 1: 006-010.
Full Text:
http://www.jagri.info/documents/AG0002.pdf
Determinants of Teff Market Channel Choice in Abay Chomen District, Western E...Premier Publishers
This study analyzes the determinants of Teff market outlet choices in Abay chomen District of Ethiopia. Survey of one hundred eighty-four (184) household heads was conducted in three kebeles of the district in 2016. Multivariate Probit model was used to identify determinants of households’ teff market outlet choice decisions. Farm gate collectors, retailers and wholesaler marketing outlets were used by teff producing farmers in the study area. The model result revealed that age of the households significantly determined the probability of choosing farm gate, retailers and wholesalers market outlets. The study also revealed that sex, land size and quantity of teff produced in 2016 significantly affected the farm gate outlet choice of the smallholders. Additionally, the retailer outlet choice of farmers was significantly determined by quantity of teff produced. On the other hand, the wholesale market outlet choice of farmers was significantly determined by education level of the farmers. This implies that the need to invest on improving the education status of farmers; improving the production capacity of farmers that would help smallholder farmers to choose the more rewarding market outlet. Therefore, any policy attempting to benefit smallholder farmers to link with fair market outlets should focus on their educational status and their production capacity.
This document discusses the history and development of agriculture marketing in India. It covers topics like the role of agriculture in India's economy, challenges farmers faced with subsistence farming and lack of infrastructure, and government measures taken over time to improve the system. Key interventions mentioned include organizing regulated markets, implementing grading and standardization, establishing storage facilities, disseminating market information, setting support prices, and creating institutions like the Directorate of Marketing and the National Institute of Agricultural Marketing.
Analysis of Yam Marketing in Akoko North-East Local Government Area of Ondo S...Ochuko Siemuri
The study analysed the marketing of yam in Akoko North East Local Government Area of Ondo State. It specifically described the socio-economic characteristics of yam marketers and determined the marketing margin, marketing cost, markup, operational efficiency and the constraints faced by yam marketers in the area. Data used for the study were generated through the administration of structured questionnaire. A total of 90 respondents comprising of 30 yam wholesalers and 60 retailers, were randomly sampled from three purposively selected major yam markets. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Concentration Ratio, Gini Coefficient and Operational Efficiency Model. The results showed variation in marketing cost, marketing margin, marketing profit, and markup for both wholesale and retail yam markets. Gini Coefficients of 0.307 and 0.307 were obtained for wholesaler and retailer respectively. This indicated high level of competition in the industry. Retailers were more operationally efficient than wholesalers, but wholesalers’ marketing profit and markup were higher than that of retailers. Wholesalers complained of insecurity, price uncertainty, high cost of yam and, transportation cost. Also, high capital requirement is considered as a serious constraint, while retailers complained of high cost of yam, price uncertainty, capital intensity and insecurity as very serious constraints. Alleviating some of the challenges, would therefore lead to more efficiency in yam business, while improving on the welfare of yam marketers.
The document discusses various schemes and programmes related to agricultural marketing in India. It outlines key central government schemes like the Integrated Scheme for Agricultural Marketing (ISAM) which aims to promote agricultural infrastructure and market access for farmers. Other schemes discussed include Rural Godown Schemes for storage, the Marketing Research and Information Network for disseminating market data, and initiatives by the Directorate of Marketing and Inspection and Agricultural Marketing Adviser to integrate agricultural development and marketing across India. The document also provides details on agricultural marketing agencies, grading standards, and the objectives and components of central government schemes.
Price Determinant of Kolanut in Selected Markets in Ibadan, Oyo State, NigeriaAI Publications
The study was carried out to examine the price determinants of Kolanuts in selected markets in Ibadan, Oyo State. Eighty(80) Kolanuts sellers were randomly selected from four(4) urban Local Government Areas in Ibadan where four(4) Kolanut markets center were also visited. The data collected were subjected to descriptive statistics, Gross Margin and multiple Regression analysis. The results indicated that majority (97%) of Kolanut sellers in the study area were females. It was observed that (48%) of the respondents belong to the age bracket of 41-50years while (66.3%) of the respondents had primary and secondary education. Gross margin analysis showed that seven hundred and twenty three thousand, three hundred and fifty naira (₦723, 350.00) was realized as profit margin after the total variable cost(TVC) of two hundred and three thousand, four hundred and fifty naira(₦203,450.00) have been deducted as cost obtained. The results of multiple regression shows that the R2 (0.67) is high and that E-statistics further explained the ability of the independent variables in explaining the variations in the dependent variable. It was found out that slight changes in any of the explanatory variable will result in downward / upward movement in the market price of kolanut in the study area. It is imperative that more research should be carried out for more varieties of kolanut which could enhance more demand and marketing.
Marketing Analysis of onion in Bade and Geidam Local Government Areas of Yobe...IOSR Journals
1) The document analyzes the marketing of onions in Bade and Geidam Local Government Areas of Yobe State, Nigeria. It investigates the socioeconomic characteristics of onion traders, determines the profitability of onion marketing, and assesses the marketing efficiency of onion traders.
2) The majority of onion traders were between 25-54 years old, with most having 5-14 years of experience trading onions. Most traders were male and married.
3) Analysis found onion marketing to be profitable for both wholesale and retail traders during peak and off-peak periods. Marketing during off-peak periods was more efficient, with a total efficiency of 1,610.83% compared to 1,577.20%
Determinants of Market Facilitators Choice by Smallholder Farmers in Laikipia...iosrjce
Horticultural crop production is one of the major crops grown in arid and semi-arid lands especially
in Laikipia County, Kenya.Market facilitators’ help in linking smallholder farmers to high value market either
in rural or urban markets. The underpinning factors in choice of market facilitators by smallholder farmers are
not yet well understood. Therefore, this paper aims to determine those factors influencingchoice of market
facilitators by farmers while marketing their produce. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 396
farmers in Laikipia East district. Binary Logit model was used as the major analytical tool; it is applicable
when analyzing binary decision or response. The results showed that, household size, age of household head
and marketing through a group positively influenced choice of market facilitators by smallholder farmers. On
the other hand, number of members in the group, access to market information, purpose of farming and amount
of output produced negatively influenced choice of market facilitators. Based on these findings, policy was
drawn to improve access to facilitators by farmers that linked them to high value output market
The study assessed the socio economic variables of cashew farmers in Oyo State. Two towns within
Ibarapa East Local Government Area (Temidire and Eruwa) were purposively sampled. These areas are known
for the cultivation, production and marketing of this crop. A total sampling frame of fifty-six respondents was
used.
Value Chain Analysis of Banana in Mizan Aman Town of Benchi Maji Zone, Southw...AI Publications
This study was aimed at analyzing value chain of banana in Mizan-Aman town, Bench Maji zone with specific objectives of describing important marketing channels and actors involved on banana value chain, dealing the determinant of supply of banana and identify constraints in value chain of the banana. The data were collected from both primary and secondary sources. The primary data for this study were collected through application of appropriate statistical procedures. The data were analyzed by using both descriptive and Econometric models. Accordingly, the value chain activities in the survey period were production, marketing and consumption. To identify factors affecting farm level marketable supply of banana, OLS regression analysis was employed. About 10 variables were hypothesized to affect farm level of marketable supply of banana in the study area. Age of respondent, experience, family size, education level of the household head, market information and distance to the market affects farm level marketable supply of banana positively and negatively. The study result exhibited also that banana producers are faced lack market, lack of cooperatives and low price of banana. The result revealed that banana passes through several intermediaries with little value being added before reaching the end users. Therefore, farmers are forced to capture a lower share of profit margin. The highest marketing cost is incurred by wholesalers and the highest market profit is shared by retailers. The value chain analysis revealed that the major actors in the area are producers, local collectors, wholesalers, retailers and consumers. The study showed that Input Suppliers, Improved infrastructure and strengthening the linkage/interaction among value chain actors is necessary for good marketing of banana.
The document discusses various problems faced in agricultural marketing in India, including a large number of middlemen reducing farmers' profits, small landholdings, forced sales, lack of transportation and storage facilities, and issues with the APMC Acts. It provides suggestions to improve the situation such as establishing regulated markets, improving marketing channels through direct sales, contract farming, improving grading/standardization, handling/packing, transportation, and providing market information, training and credit access to farmers. Amending the APMC Acts and increasing government investment in agricultural infrastructure are also recommended.
This document analyzes the information needs of agricultural extension agents in rural Ghana. It discusses how access to relevant and timely information is crucial for extension agents to effectively disseminate information to small-scale farmers and help increase agricultural production. The study assessed the information needs of 130 extension agents across eight districts of northern Ghana. It found that major gaps exist in the extension agents' knowledge of technical and legal information needed by farmers, hindering improvements in productivity. The document recommends that extension agent training include computer literacy to improve their access to internet resources and agricultural information.
The extent of adoption of the market intelligence among the summer cabbage gr...inventionjournals
The cultivation of vegetables, which is done mainly for marketing purpose, is known as commercial vegetable cultivation. Having achieved self-sufficiency in production led agriculture, India have to focus on market oriented Agriculture, which generate additional value to the farm produce, income and employment for farmers. Market oriented agriculture means adding value may be in terms of on-farm and offfarm income and employment generation by the production of agriculture and product. Commodity marketing research is an essential item in the marketing continuum. Price forecasts, preferences for consumers and industries, cost of storage, transport, etc. collectively known as market intelligence and to be disseminated at the time of sowing and harvesting. Market intelligence is life blood of the market, therefore, it has great importance in market oriented cultivation. The present study was confined to “Ex-Post facto” research design. Present study was conducted to measure the extent of adoption of market intelligence regarding market oriented cultivation of summer cabbage teacher made tests were developed. Six practices in market intelligence namely, grading, packaging, transportation, demand, sources to know selling price and marketing channel were selected for adoption. Study revealed that majority (79.27 per cent) of the respondents had medium to high level of overall adoption of market intelligence. More than half of the respondents had adopted grading, transportation and marketing channel practices, while demand, source to know selling price and packaging practices were less adopted by the respondents. The independent variables viz., education, education of family, land holding, annual income and level of knowledge of the summer cabbage growers were established positively and highly significant association with their extent of adoption of market intelligence. Age of the summer cabbage growers was associated negative and highly significant with their extent of adoption of market intelligence. The size of family of the summer cabbage growers was failed to establish any significant association with extent of adoption of market intelligence regarding market oriented cultivation of summer cabbage
Abstract— The study examined the cost and return of local chicken marketing in Mubi north local government area of Adamawa state. Data were collected from 120 respondents with aid of structured questionnaire using purposive and random sampling technique. Descriptive statistics, net income analysis, marketing efficiency (ME) were the analytical tools employed. The result revealed that local chicken marketing in the study area is mostly undertaken by the male gender (85%) who were in their active age between the age of 30-60 years. Majority of them had one form of formal education or the other and have marketing experience of more than five years. On the profitability of the enterprise a total variable cost ₦7887.00 was estimated using 2014 price of input and output. Cost of transportation accounting for 72.84%. The total revenue from the enterprise was estimated ₦13, 100 given the net income of ₦5213 an indication that the enterprise is profitable. A high marketing efficiency of 160% was computed an indication that the profit maximization motive of local chicken marketing is assured. It is recommended that the marketers should be motivated and encouraged with soft loans so as to expand their production.
This document outlines several key institutions that were established to improve agricultural marketing opportunities and increase farmer incomes in India. The Council for State Agricultural Marketing Boards (COSAMB) was established in 1988 to monitor and coordinate the activities of state agricultural marketing boards. The Food Corporation of India, established in 1965, works to procure agricultural products at incentive prices and address price fluctuations through its purchase and distribution network. The Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP), also established in 1965, makes recommendations to the government of India on minimum support prices and procurement prices. The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), founded in 1986, links Indian farmers to global markets and promotes agro-exports.
The document discusses India's agricultural price policy and related programs. It provides background on how the policy emerged in response to food scarcity issues. It then describes the objectives of price policy, the need for such a policy, its main features including the institutions involved like CACP and FCI. It also discusses factors considered in price setting, effects of the policy, and shortcomings like limited coverage and ineffective PDS. Suggestions are provided to improve the policy including expanding coverage and improving productivity.
Roasted Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea): an emerging income source for ...CGIAR
This poster was given by Charlie Mbosso (Bioversity International), as part of the Annual Scientific Conference hosted by the CGIAR Collaborative Platform for Gender Research. The event took place on 5-6 December 2017 in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, where the Platform is hosted (by KIT Royal Tropical Institute).
Read more: http://gender.cgiar.org/gender_events/annual-scientific-conference-capacity-development-workshop-cgiar-collaborative-platform-gender-research/
Status of agricultural goods as affected by the farmers’ marketing practices ...Open Access Research Paper
We assessed the status of agricultural goods in the Municipality of Manukan, Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines through a well-structured questionnaire. The respondents were 20% of the farmers-vendors in the Barangay Food Terminals (BFTs) of the said locality. The questionnaire contained important parts such as (1) respondents’ profiles, (2) marketing practices of the respondents, (3) problems encountered, (4) government interventions, and (5) the general perception of the respondents. Most of the respondents were females (70%), and 45% are college degree holders and have 20 years of experience in farming. They all make sure the palatability and healthiness of their products, thus they reached loyal customers (29%) and resellers (71%). The price of their products is affordable. They also supply sufficiently and some of them (10%) do promotional activities. 90% of the respondents chose the BFT to be the venue for selling their agricultural products since it is accessible to the customers. 88% of the respondents declared that the consideration of the 4Ps in marketing is very effective. This resulted in most of them did not have encountered serious problems. Thus, they perceived that their agricultural goods are marketable and profitable. The LGU supported the respondents by the means of maintaining orderliness in the BFTs. The respondents had also received support from the Office of the Department of Agriculture in their LGU by benefiting them from the projects.
The document summarizes a study on vegetable handling practices, distribution, and wholesale profitability in Abinchi night market in Kumasi, Ghana. It finds that vegetables are transported from farms to the night market by open and closed trucks, mini vans, and taxis. At the market, vegetables are packed in jute sacks and have a shelf life of 3-7 days depending on the vegetable. The study analyzes the financial records of wholesalers and finds that vegetable wholesale was most profitable in July, August, and September.
Postharvest status of plantains in some selected markets in Ghanaresearchagriculture
Plantain production and marketing has been done traditionally, as the problem of
food
production shortage during the last decade in Ghana has temporarily been solved
with
import substitute staple like rice.
A survey of marketing and utilisation of plantain in
twenty
-
two urban markets from five regions of Ghana revealed that fruit maturity has
important criteria to all players in the plantain postharvest system.
Unavailable, improper
infrastructure and facilities coupled with unreliable transportation system and poor road
network shorten the shelf
-
life thus causing rapid ripening with subsequent increase in
postharvest losses.
The practiced technology for enhancing ripening of fruits, though
low, was appropriate
and cost effective. The role of market queens in the retailing of
the product had a
negative effect on the rate of returns of the retailers, which
contributed to about 45% of
the traders being seasonal sellers. However with about 60%
of respondents had basic education and their level of record and book keeping was
impressive.
Postharvest status of plantains in some selected markets in Ghanaresearchagriculture
Plantain production and marketing has been done traditionally, as the problem of food production shortage during the last decade in Ghana has temporarily been solved with import substitute staple like rice. A survey of marketing and utilisation of plantain in twenty-two urban markets from five regions of Ghana revealed that fruit maturity has important criteria to all players in the plantain postharvest system. Unavailable, improper infrastructure and facilities coupled with unreliable transportation system and poor road network shorten the shelf-life thus causing rapid ripening with subsequent increase in postharvest losses. The practiced technology for enhancing ripening of fruits, though low, was appropriate and cost effective. The role of market queens in the retailing of the product had a negative effect on the rate of returns of the retailers, which contributed to about 45% of the traders being seasonal sellers. However with about 60% of respondents had basic education and their level of record and book keeping was impressive.
Article Citation:
Pearl A. Adu-Amankwa, Bernard Agyeman Boateng.
Postharvest status of plantains in some selected markets in Ghana
Journal of Research in Agriculture (2011) 1: 006-010.
Full Text:
http://www.jagri.info/documents/AG0002.pdf
Determinants of Teff Market Channel Choice in Abay Chomen District, Western E...Premier Publishers
This study analyzes the determinants of Teff market outlet choices in Abay chomen District of Ethiopia. Survey of one hundred eighty-four (184) household heads was conducted in three kebeles of the district in 2016. Multivariate Probit model was used to identify determinants of households’ teff market outlet choice decisions. Farm gate collectors, retailers and wholesaler marketing outlets were used by teff producing farmers in the study area. The model result revealed that age of the households significantly determined the probability of choosing farm gate, retailers and wholesalers market outlets. The study also revealed that sex, land size and quantity of teff produced in 2016 significantly affected the farm gate outlet choice of the smallholders. Additionally, the retailer outlet choice of farmers was significantly determined by quantity of teff produced. On the other hand, the wholesale market outlet choice of farmers was significantly determined by education level of the farmers. This implies that the need to invest on improving the education status of farmers; improving the production capacity of farmers that would help smallholder farmers to choose the more rewarding market outlet. Therefore, any policy attempting to benefit smallholder farmers to link with fair market outlets should focus on their educational status and their production capacity.
This document discusses the history and development of agriculture marketing in India. It covers topics like the role of agriculture in India's economy, challenges farmers faced with subsistence farming and lack of infrastructure, and government measures taken over time to improve the system. Key interventions mentioned include organizing regulated markets, implementing grading and standardization, establishing storage facilities, disseminating market information, setting support prices, and creating institutions like the Directorate of Marketing and the National Institute of Agricultural Marketing.
Analysis of Yam Marketing in Akoko North-East Local Government Area of Ondo S...Ochuko Siemuri
The study analysed the marketing of yam in Akoko North East Local Government Area of Ondo State. It specifically described the socio-economic characteristics of yam marketers and determined the marketing margin, marketing cost, markup, operational efficiency and the constraints faced by yam marketers in the area. Data used for the study were generated through the administration of structured questionnaire. A total of 90 respondents comprising of 30 yam wholesalers and 60 retailers, were randomly sampled from three purposively selected major yam markets. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Concentration Ratio, Gini Coefficient and Operational Efficiency Model. The results showed variation in marketing cost, marketing margin, marketing profit, and markup for both wholesale and retail yam markets. Gini Coefficients of 0.307 and 0.307 were obtained for wholesaler and retailer respectively. This indicated high level of competition in the industry. Retailers were more operationally efficient than wholesalers, but wholesalers’ marketing profit and markup were higher than that of retailers. Wholesalers complained of insecurity, price uncertainty, high cost of yam and, transportation cost. Also, high capital requirement is considered as a serious constraint, while retailers complained of high cost of yam, price uncertainty, capital intensity and insecurity as very serious constraints. Alleviating some of the challenges, would therefore lead to more efficiency in yam business, while improving on the welfare of yam marketers.
The document discusses various schemes and programmes related to agricultural marketing in India. It outlines key central government schemes like the Integrated Scheme for Agricultural Marketing (ISAM) which aims to promote agricultural infrastructure and market access for farmers. Other schemes discussed include Rural Godown Schemes for storage, the Marketing Research and Information Network for disseminating market data, and initiatives by the Directorate of Marketing and Inspection and Agricultural Marketing Adviser to integrate agricultural development and marketing across India. The document also provides details on agricultural marketing agencies, grading standards, and the objectives and components of central government schemes.
Price Determinant of Kolanut in Selected Markets in Ibadan, Oyo State, NigeriaAI Publications
The study was carried out to examine the price determinants of Kolanuts in selected markets in Ibadan, Oyo State. Eighty(80) Kolanuts sellers were randomly selected from four(4) urban Local Government Areas in Ibadan where four(4) Kolanut markets center were also visited. The data collected were subjected to descriptive statistics, Gross Margin and multiple Regression analysis. The results indicated that majority (97%) of Kolanut sellers in the study area were females. It was observed that (48%) of the respondents belong to the age bracket of 41-50years while (66.3%) of the respondents had primary and secondary education. Gross margin analysis showed that seven hundred and twenty three thousand, three hundred and fifty naira (₦723, 350.00) was realized as profit margin after the total variable cost(TVC) of two hundred and three thousand, four hundred and fifty naira(₦203,450.00) have been deducted as cost obtained. The results of multiple regression shows that the R2 (0.67) is high and that E-statistics further explained the ability of the independent variables in explaining the variations in the dependent variable. It was found out that slight changes in any of the explanatory variable will result in downward / upward movement in the market price of kolanut in the study area. It is imperative that more research should be carried out for more varieties of kolanut which could enhance more demand and marketing.
Marketing Analysis of onion in Bade and Geidam Local Government Areas of Yobe...IOSR Journals
1) The document analyzes the marketing of onions in Bade and Geidam Local Government Areas of Yobe State, Nigeria. It investigates the socioeconomic characteristics of onion traders, determines the profitability of onion marketing, and assesses the marketing efficiency of onion traders.
2) The majority of onion traders were between 25-54 years old, with most having 5-14 years of experience trading onions. Most traders were male and married.
3) Analysis found onion marketing to be profitable for both wholesale and retail traders during peak and off-peak periods. Marketing during off-peak periods was more efficient, with a total efficiency of 1,610.83% compared to 1,577.20%
Determinants of Market Facilitators Choice by Smallholder Farmers in Laikipia...iosrjce
Horticultural crop production is one of the major crops grown in arid and semi-arid lands especially
in Laikipia County, Kenya.Market facilitators’ help in linking smallholder farmers to high value market either
in rural or urban markets. The underpinning factors in choice of market facilitators by smallholder farmers are
not yet well understood. Therefore, this paper aims to determine those factors influencingchoice of market
facilitators by farmers while marketing their produce. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 396
farmers in Laikipia East district. Binary Logit model was used as the major analytical tool; it is applicable
when analyzing binary decision or response. The results showed that, household size, age of household head
and marketing through a group positively influenced choice of market facilitators by smallholder farmers. On
the other hand, number of members in the group, access to market information, purpose of farming and amount
of output produced negatively influenced choice of market facilitators. Based on these findings, policy was
drawn to improve access to facilitators by farmers that linked them to high value output market
The study assessed the socio economic variables of cashew farmers in Oyo State. Two towns within
Ibarapa East Local Government Area (Temidire and Eruwa) were purposively sampled. These areas are known
for the cultivation, production and marketing of this crop. A total sampling frame of fifty-six respondents was
used.
Value Chain Analysis of Banana in Mizan Aman Town of Benchi Maji Zone, Southw...AI Publications
This study was aimed at analyzing value chain of banana in Mizan-Aman town, Bench Maji zone with specific objectives of describing important marketing channels and actors involved on banana value chain, dealing the determinant of supply of banana and identify constraints in value chain of the banana. The data were collected from both primary and secondary sources. The primary data for this study were collected through application of appropriate statistical procedures. The data were analyzed by using both descriptive and Econometric models. Accordingly, the value chain activities in the survey period were production, marketing and consumption. To identify factors affecting farm level marketable supply of banana, OLS regression analysis was employed. About 10 variables were hypothesized to affect farm level of marketable supply of banana in the study area. Age of respondent, experience, family size, education level of the household head, market information and distance to the market affects farm level marketable supply of banana positively and negatively. The study result exhibited also that banana producers are faced lack market, lack of cooperatives and low price of banana. The result revealed that banana passes through several intermediaries with little value being added before reaching the end users. Therefore, farmers are forced to capture a lower share of profit margin. The highest marketing cost is incurred by wholesalers and the highest market profit is shared by retailers. The value chain analysis revealed that the major actors in the area are producers, local collectors, wholesalers, retailers and consumers. The study showed that Input Suppliers, Improved infrastructure and strengthening the linkage/interaction among value chain actors is necessary for good marketing of banana.
The document discusses various problems faced in agricultural marketing in India, including a large number of middlemen reducing farmers' profits, small landholdings, forced sales, lack of transportation and storage facilities, and issues with the APMC Acts. It provides suggestions to improve the situation such as establishing regulated markets, improving marketing channels through direct sales, contract farming, improving grading/standardization, handling/packing, transportation, and providing market information, training and credit access to farmers. Amending the APMC Acts and increasing government investment in agricultural infrastructure are also recommended.
This document analyzes the information needs of agricultural extension agents in rural Ghana. It discusses how access to relevant and timely information is crucial for extension agents to effectively disseminate information to small-scale farmers and help increase agricultural production. The study assessed the information needs of 130 extension agents across eight districts of northern Ghana. It found that major gaps exist in the extension agents' knowledge of technical and legal information needed by farmers, hindering improvements in productivity. The document recommends that extension agent training include computer literacy to improve their access to internet resources and agricultural information.
The extent of adoption of the market intelligence among the summer cabbage gr...inventionjournals
The cultivation of vegetables, which is done mainly for marketing purpose, is known as commercial vegetable cultivation. Having achieved self-sufficiency in production led agriculture, India have to focus on market oriented Agriculture, which generate additional value to the farm produce, income and employment for farmers. Market oriented agriculture means adding value may be in terms of on-farm and offfarm income and employment generation by the production of agriculture and product. Commodity marketing research is an essential item in the marketing continuum. Price forecasts, preferences for consumers and industries, cost of storage, transport, etc. collectively known as market intelligence and to be disseminated at the time of sowing and harvesting. Market intelligence is life blood of the market, therefore, it has great importance in market oriented cultivation. The present study was confined to “Ex-Post facto” research design. Present study was conducted to measure the extent of adoption of market intelligence regarding market oriented cultivation of summer cabbage teacher made tests were developed. Six practices in market intelligence namely, grading, packaging, transportation, demand, sources to know selling price and marketing channel were selected for adoption. Study revealed that majority (79.27 per cent) of the respondents had medium to high level of overall adoption of market intelligence. More than half of the respondents had adopted grading, transportation and marketing channel practices, while demand, source to know selling price and packaging practices were less adopted by the respondents. The independent variables viz., education, education of family, land holding, annual income and level of knowledge of the summer cabbage growers were established positively and highly significant association with their extent of adoption of market intelligence. Age of the summer cabbage growers was associated negative and highly significant with their extent of adoption of market intelligence. The size of family of the summer cabbage growers was failed to establish any significant association with extent of adoption of market intelligence regarding market oriented cultivation of summer cabbage
Abstract— The study examined the cost and return of local chicken marketing in Mubi north local government area of Adamawa state. Data were collected from 120 respondents with aid of structured questionnaire using purposive and random sampling technique. Descriptive statistics, net income analysis, marketing efficiency (ME) were the analytical tools employed. The result revealed that local chicken marketing in the study area is mostly undertaken by the male gender (85%) who were in their active age between the age of 30-60 years. Majority of them had one form of formal education or the other and have marketing experience of more than five years. On the profitability of the enterprise a total variable cost ₦7887.00 was estimated using 2014 price of input and output. Cost of transportation accounting for 72.84%. The total revenue from the enterprise was estimated ₦13, 100 given the net income of ₦5213 an indication that the enterprise is profitable. A high marketing efficiency of 160% was computed an indication that the profit maximization motive of local chicken marketing is assured. It is recommended that the marketers should be motivated and encouraged with soft loans so as to expand their production.
This document outlines several key institutions that were established to improve agricultural marketing opportunities and increase farmer incomes in India. The Council for State Agricultural Marketing Boards (COSAMB) was established in 1988 to monitor and coordinate the activities of state agricultural marketing boards. The Food Corporation of India, established in 1965, works to procure agricultural products at incentive prices and address price fluctuations through its purchase and distribution network. The Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP), also established in 1965, makes recommendations to the government of India on minimum support prices and procurement prices. The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), founded in 1986, links Indian farmers to global markets and promotes agro-exports.
The document discusses India's agricultural price policy and related programs. It provides background on how the policy emerged in response to food scarcity issues. It then describes the objectives of price policy, the need for such a policy, its main features including the institutions involved like CACP and FCI. It also discusses factors considered in price setting, effects of the policy, and shortcomings like limited coverage and ineffective PDS. Suggestions are provided to improve the policy including expanding coverage and improving productivity.
Roasted Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea): an emerging income source for ...CGIAR
This poster was given by Charlie Mbosso (Bioversity International), as part of the Annual Scientific Conference hosted by the CGIAR Collaborative Platform for Gender Research. The event took place on 5-6 December 2017 in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, where the Platform is hosted (by KIT Royal Tropical Institute).
Read more: http://gender.cgiar.org/gender_events/annual-scientific-conference-capacity-development-workshop-cgiar-collaborative-platform-gender-research/
Status of agricultural goods as affected by the farmers’ marketing practices ...Open Access Research Paper
We assessed the status of agricultural goods in the Municipality of Manukan, Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines through a well-structured questionnaire. The respondents were 20% of the farmers-vendors in the Barangay Food Terminals (BFTs) of the said locality. The questionnaire contained important parts such as (1) respondents’ profiles, (2) marketing practices of the respondents, (3) problems encountered, (4) government interventions, and (5) the general perception of the respondents. Most of the respondents were females (70%), and 45% are college degree holders and have 20 years of experience in farming. They all make sure the palatability and healthiness of their products, thus they reached loyal customers (29%) and resellers (71%). The price of their products is affordable. They also supply sufficiently and some of them (10%) do promotional activities. 90% of the respondents chose the BFT to be the venue for selling their agricultural products since it is accessible to the customers. 88% of the respondents declared that the consideration of the 4Ps in marketing is very effective. This resulted in most of them did not have encountered serious problems. Thus, they perceived that their agricultural goods are marketable and profitable. The LGU supported the respondents by the means of maintaining orderliness in the BFTs. The respondents had also received support from the Office of the Department of Agriculture in their LGU by benefiting them from the projects.
This document summarizes a study on the profitability and production efficiency of small-scale maize production in Niger State, Nigeria. The study found that maize production was profitable, with an average net farm income of 48,109 Naira per hectare. Production costs were 77.9% of total costs, with labor as the largest cost. The production efficiency index of 2.50 indicated that returns exceeded costs by 150%, showing profitability. While profitable, the study recommended increasing farm size and production to enhance profits further. Improving access to farmland, education, credit, and extension services were also suggested to improve profitability of small-scale maize production in the area.
Agricultural Marketing and Performance of Agricultural Firms in Anambra Stateijtsrd
This research studied the relationship between agricultural marketing and performance of agricultural firms in Anambra State. Specifically, the study addressed the relationship between transactional marketing and performance of agricultural firms, the relationship between database marketing and performance of agricultural firms, the relationship between interaction marketing and performance of agricultural firms and finally the relationship between network marketing and performance of agricultural firms. The study adopted a survey research design in collecting data questionnaire and personal interviews were used in collecting primary data while documentary sources were used for secondary data. The population of the study was made up of 411 agricultural firms in Anambra state, whereas 30 firms were selected as the sample size with the aid of solvin formular. The data generated for this study were presented with frequencies and percentages, while the stated hypotheses were statistically tested with Pearson motion correlation, which was computed with the aid of the Statistical Packages for Social Sciences SPSS Version 20. Findings from the study showed thattransactional, database, interaction and network marketing that were used as proxies for agricultural marketing all have a significant relationship with sales volume which was used as proxy for performance of agricultural firms. Chibike Onyije Nwuba "Agricultural Marketing and Performance of Agricultural Firms in Anambra State" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-5 | Issue-2 , February 2021, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd38502.pdf Paper Url: https://www.ijtsrd.com/management/marketing/38502/agricultural-marketing-and-performance-of-agricultural-firms-in-anambra-state/chibike-onyije-nwuba
Influence of farmer characteristics on the production of groundnuts, a case o...paperpublications3
Abstract: Groundnut (Arachis hypogea L.) is a major annual oilseed crop and its economic and nutritive quality makes the crop a beneficial enterprise for rural farmers in Ndhiwa Sub-County. Researchers have recommended adoption of technology and increased contact with extension agents as one way of increasing production but productivity remains low. Crop productivity or yield is a function of environment, plant, management and socio-economic factors that interact at optimum levels to give maximum yields. The study focused on farmer characteristics which are part of socio-economic factors using the ex-post facto research design. The objective was to determine the influence of farmer characteristics on the production of groundnuts in Ndhiwa Sub County, Kenya. Purposive, multistage and simple random sampling was used in the study. Data on famer characteristics was obtained from 323 farmers out of the population of 21,820 farmers involved in groundnut production during the 2014 main cropping season. Document analysis was used to collate and analyze secondary data. Cobb-Douglas production function model and multiple regression analysis were used to study the behaviour and effects of independent variables on the dependent variable and test hypotheses. The results of the study showed that majority of the farmers were in households that were male headed with an average of seven persons. The household heads were middle aged, experienced in groundnut farming and had low levels of formal education. Age, gender of head of household, household size, level of formal education and experience in farming all had a positive relationship with groundnut production. However, only gender and experience in farming were significant at p <0.05 level of significance. Based on the findings the study recommended that interventions that target female headed households and improvement of farmers’ traditional knowledge on production should be put in place to improve production.
Operations od street food vendors and their impact on sustainable urban life ...Dr Lendy Spires
This document discusses a study on street food vendors in the high density suburbs of Harare, Zimbabwe. The study found that street food vending provides important socioeconomic benefits by employing many residents and supplying affordable meals, though vendors face challenges from lack of infrastructure and legal recognition. The document recommends the government should legalize and support the street food industry by providing resources like water, electricity, and training to help vendors improve sanitation, skills, and productivity in a sustainable way.
Determinants of Willingness to Pay for Private Extension Services by Crop Far...Premier Publishers
The study analysed determinants of willingness to pay for private extension services among crop farmers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, Nigeria. Primary data were collected from respondents using a structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using simple descriptive statistics and logit regression model. From the results, the mean age of respondents was 39 years. The mean annual income of respondents was N504,811.1 (SD = N767,997.7). Many (49.4%) of the farmers interviewed had between 6 – 10 persons in their households with an average household size of 8 persons. Majority (79.4%) of the respondents were male while only 20.6% of the respondents were female. Socioeconomic factors influencing crop farmers’ willingness to pay for private extension found in the study were age, income, membership of cooperatives and frequency of extension visits. Age was significant at 10% while Income and membership of cooperatives were both significant at 5% respectively. However, frequency of extension visits was significant at 1%. There should be deliberate policies that will draw younger Nigerian into farming as the study reveals that willingness to pay for private extension increases within the younger generation of farmers. Younger farmers have the innovativeness to incorporate vital innovations and modern technologies in farming.
Sharing gains of the potato in Kenya: A case of thin governanceSharing gains ...Premier Publishers
The potato offers a good alternative for diversification from maize, the staple food in Kenya. This article presents the results of a study on the potato marketing system, the factors affecting prices and the predominant governance system impacting on the market. Survey data were collected from 402 farmers in the three potato growing regions and addition information on monthly prices in major markets was provided the Ministry of Agriculture. There were also semi-structured interviews with the major actors in the potato sector.
Potato marketing exhibits the captive governance structure with traders collaboratively acting as the lead firm. An analysis of the split in selling price between the various players indicates that margins were concentrated at the coordination of marketing activities as opposed to the production activities. Coordination activities took about 40% of the consumer price. Besides the market channel used, the production region, the size of the land cultivated and the yields obtained determined the price obtained by the farmers. Given the distribution of the value added in the chain and the current dominance of traders, we argue in favour of upgrading the value chain and giving more power to the farmers and their organizations.
Comparative Study of Economic Potentials of Cooperative and Non Cooperative M...ijtsrd
Cassava processing greatly influences the price value of cassava produce but processing and marketing through group approach will increase the value addition. Consequently, farmers' income will definitely increase, there will also be increase in savings habit. The study broad objective was to compare the economic potentials of cooperative and non cooperative members in cassava processing and marketing in agricultural zones of Anambra State. The farmers are poor and cannot access the needed agricultural facilities and technologies to enhance their productivity individually, that is why the rationale to compare their economic potentials through group approach becomes vital. Multistage sampling technique was used to determine the sample size of 287 for cassava farmers that were cooperative members and 294 sample size was equally determined for cassava farmers that were not cooperative members. Data obtained were analyzed with both descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. Evidence from the study revealed that majority of the both respondents were females. The findings also revealed that the cooperative farmers earned more income from cassava processing and marketing more than those cassava farmers that were not cooperative members. In order to enhance the cooperative approach of cassava processing and marketing among the farmers, the farmers should be encouraged to expand their cassava production capacity. As a matter of necessity, the farmers should be provided with micro production loan and credit. The cooperative society should adopt more innovative processing technologies. Also, the cooperative society should be more informed with current market information and seek for alternative access from other markets to dispose processed cassava. Okafor I. P. | Umebali E. E "Comparative Study of Economic Potentials of Cooperative and Non Cooperative Members in Cassava Processing and Marketing in Agricultural Zones of Anambra State" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-3 | Issue-5 , August 2019, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd25247.pdfPaper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/management/marketing/25247/comparative-study-of-economic-potentials-of-cooperative-and-non-cooperative-members-in-cassava-processing-and-marketing-in-agricultural-zones-of-anambra-state/okafor-i-p
Demand-led market opportunities for farmers in the high value product sector ...Premier Publishers
Market information is indispensable in facilitating marketing of agricultural produce, particularly fresh produce given its high perishability. The purpose of this study was to estimate South African consumers’ demand for vegetables. Demand for six vegetables was analysed via a multi-stage budgeting system, using data from the Household Expenditure Survey and the 2010 edition of the Abstract of Agricultural Statistics. The estimated demand elasticities show that the demand for all vegetables increases with rising per capita income. Most of the vegetables were found to respond substantially to changes in their own prices and in the direction as expected with estimated negative own-price elasticities.
DETERMINANTS FOR RECORD KEEPING AMONG FARMERS IN TUBAH SUB DIVISION, NORTH WE...AJHSSR Journal
ABSTRACT :
Purpose: Record keeping is important as it enables farmers to document their farm operations. Apart from
providing some useful insights into the types of records kept, it facilitates understand the problems connected with
record keeping by farmers, and so enable us to suggest solutions that lead to effective record keeping. Information
obtained can further enhance agricultural development, for instance by facilitating farmers’ access to credits.
Methodology: Data was collected using the purposively sampling method (160 farmers) from the villages of
Bambili, Bambui, Kedjom-keku (Big Babanki) and Kedjom-ketingoh (Small Babanki) all in Tubah division in the
North West region of Cameroon, using a structured questionnaire. The data was entered and analyzed using SPSS
(Statistical Package for Social Science), version 20.0. Both descriptive statistics and regression analysis were
performed, adopting a 5% significance level.
Findings: All 160 respondents indicated that record keeping is very important, and 67.5% of them were found to
keep any kind of records. Binary logistic regression was applied to identify the factors that affect record keeping
decisions among farmers. Marital status, type of farming system practice, number of plots and formal training
showed positive contributions towards record keeping. However, only the marital status, farming practice, number
of plots and formal training (educational level) significantly influenced farmers’ decisions to keep records
(p=0.000).
Unique Contribution: Our contribution dwells on a relevant topic, namely record keeping, which is largely
neglected in the topic research, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. The results allow us to recommended that famers
should endeavor to keep and constantly update records as records can attract benefits such as access to credit, and/or
grants acquired through project writing. Also, if production, input and sales records are prevalent, governments and
scholars can use them for statistical purposes, or as a catalyst to grant certification to famers who keep records
which would enhance traceability, market niche and fair trade..
KEYWORDS: Record Keeping, Determinants, Farmers, Binary Logistic Regression, Tubah-Sub Division
This document summarizes a study that examined the determinants of profit in tomato marketing in Ghana's Ashanti Region. The study analyzed data from 200 tomato traders, including 100 wholesalers and 100 retailers. It found that wholesalers had higher margins of 99.7% compared to retailers' margins of 75.4%. Key determinants of marketing profit for both groups were labor costs, purchase price, transportation costs, and selling price. The document calls for policies to stabilize currency and eliminate illiteracy among traders, as well as enable retailers to increase their scale of operations.
African Smallholder Farmers’ Perceptions and Attitudes towards Genetically Mo...Premier Publishers
As the debate concerning the application of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) technology in commercial agriculture intensifies in Africa, it is appropriate that empirical information about smallholder farmers’ perceptions and attitudes towards GM Crops be investigated as it has the potential of shaping farmers’ adoption decision. This study therefore sought to examine the perceptions and attitude of smallholder farmers in Northern Ghana towards GM crops. The study employed a descriptive survey with Q Methodological procedure applied in guiding data collection. Through multi-stage sampling techniques, 360 smallholder farmers across 10 districts in Northern Ghana were sampled. Descriptive statistics and Q factor analysis were employed in analysing the data gathered. Four-factor solutions were identified as the underlying constructs characterising smallholder farmers’ perceptions towards the cultivation of GM crops. Analysis of the narratives gathered from the smallholder farmers surveyed revealed wide arrays of mixed perceptions towards the cultivation of GM crops. While some farmers held positive and progressive views towards GM crops others held ‘negative, cynical, and dispassionate views towards the cultivation of GM crops. It is recommended that Ghana’s National Biosafety Authority intensify its public education activities to enlighten smallholder farmers about GM crops and Ghana’s agricultural biotechnology policy.
The Role of Cooperatives in Marketing of Agricultural Produce in Ushongo Loca...Premier Publishers
This study was designed to determine the role of cooperatives in the marketing of agricultural produce in a rural community. A structured interview schedule was used to collect data from a random sample of 115 respondents drawn from five of the eleven Council Wards in the Local Government Area. It was found that respondents’ socio-economic characteristics had no significant influence on farmers’ participation in cooperatives. The study showed further that cooperatives were able to regulate only a small proportion of the volume of produce farmers took to the market. However, three quarters (74.8%) of respondents believed that cooperatives determined prices of produce. Some of the constraints facing cooperatives identified included the large number of middlemen (75.5), inadequate storage (67.0%) and low literacy of members (67.8). It is concluded that cooperatives would better impact farmers if identified constraints are addressed by both governmental and non-governmental stakeholders.
This document summarizes a research paper on agglomeration economies among farmers in Nigeria. It finds that agglomeration provides benefits like economic growth, diversification, transportation cost savings, and innovation adoption. However, it also faces challenges like risks and uncertainties, dependency on rain-fed farming, and limited access to long-term credit. The paper studies farmers in cluster areas in southern Nigeria to understand the socioeconomic characteristics of participants, perceived benefits of agglomeration, and challenges. It finds agglomeration can help alleviate poverty and support jobs and growth if the key challenges of risks, infrastructure, and financing access are addressed.
Motives of cultivating traditional leafy vegetables in Tamale MetropolisAI Publications
Abstract— Although, there are several researches in
Ghana’s agricultural sector, little has been done on the
investigation of the motives of traditional leafy vegetable
production in Ghana. This present study assessed the
motive of traditional leafy vegetable crop production in the
Northern region of Ghana using cross-sectional data. A
simple random sampling technique was used to select 334
peri-urban and urban farming communities in the Tamale
Metropolis. A questionnaire was administered to the
respondents and data collected were analyzed using Chisquare
test, percentage and frequencies. The results
indicate that the motives for traditional leafy vegetable
production were very similar for both peri-urban and
urban farming communities. The main motive for
traditional leafy vegetable production was statistically
significant for cash income [χ2 (1, N=334) = 3.755, p <
0.050], and employment [χ2 (1, N=334) = 13.135, p <
0.001], statistically insignificant for manure [χ2 (1,
N=334) = 1.064, p < 0.302] and food/subsistence [χ2 (1,
N=334) = 3.755, p < 0.059]. Given that traditional leafy
vegetable production is a good source of income
generation, government should encourage the youth to
participate in agricultural activities through the provision
of incentives and ready market.
The International Journal of Engineering and Science (The IJES)theijes
The International Journal of Engineering & Science is aimed at providing a platform for researchers, engineers, scientists, or educators to publish their original research results, to exchange new ideas, to disseminate information in innovative designs, engineering experiences and technological skills. It is also the Journal's objective to promote engineering and technology education. All papers submitted to the Journal will be blind peer-reviewed. Only original articles will be published.
The papers for publication in The International Journal of Engineering& Science are selected through rigorous peer reviews to ensure originality, timeliness, relevance, and readability.
The International Journal of Engineering and Science (The IJES)theijes
The International Journal of Engineering & Science is aimed at providing a platform for researchers, engineers, scientists, or educators to publish their original research results, to exchange new ideas, to disseminate information in innovative designs, engineering experiences and technological skills. It is also the Journal's objective to promote engineering and technology education. All papers submitted to the Journal will be blind peer-reviewed. Only original articles will be published.
The papers for publication in The International Journal of Engineering& Science are selected through rigorous peer reviews to ensure originality, timeliness, relevance, and readability.
11.productivity and resource use efficiency in tomato and watermelon farmsAlexander Decker
This study examines productivity and resource use efficiency in tomato and watermelon farms in Ghana. The value of output for watermelon farms was higher than for tomato farms, due to differences in output prices and input costs. It cost more to produce a hectare of tomato (GH¢704.59) than watermelon (GH¢509.03), but tomato yields per hectare were lower (GH¢480.37 vs GH¢1738.68 for watermelon). Factors like land, labor, and experience influenced tomato output value, while land, non-farm activity, and training impacted watermelon output. Marginal values for land and labor exceeded market prices, indicating inefficient resource use for both crops
Similar to Farmers Profits: Can the Standard Weights and Measures Help? (20)
Recycling and Disposal on SWM Raymond Einyu pptxRayLetai1
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A healthy, safe, secure and sustainable solid waste management system fit for a world – class city.
Improve and protect the public health of Nairobi residents and visitors.
Ecological health, diversity and productivity and maximize resource recovery through the participatory approach.
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Build awareness and capacity for source separation as essential components of sustainable waste management.
Build new environmentally sound infrastructure and systems for safe disposal of residual waste and replacing current dumpsites which should be commissioned.
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The status.
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Solid waste generation – collection – dumping
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• Through the network, it should expect to benefit from expertise of the different actors in the network in terms of applicable technologies and practices in reducing the short-lived climate pollutants.
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CHALLENGES:
• Resource Allocation.
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In 2022, the first commercial application of MetaArray™ was performed at the site. MetaArray™ utilizes statistical analysis, such as principal component analysis and multivariate analysis to provide evidence that reductive dechlorination is active or even that it is slowing. This creates actionable data allowing users to save money by making important site management decisions earlier.
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Farmers Profits: Can the Standard Weights and Measures Help?
1. International Journal of Environmental & Agriculture Research (IJOEAR) ISSN:[2454-1850] [Vol-5, Issue-12, December- 2019]
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Farmers Profits: Can the Standard Weights and Measures Help?
Adwoa Oforiwa Antwi1
, Kenichi Matsui2
1
Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba
2
Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Tsukuba Ibaraki, Japan
Abstract—In Ghana, rural people, mostly farmers, experience food insecurity. In bargaining with marketers, farmers tend
to lose profits. The use of traditional weights and measures led to inefficient transactions. These difficulties have negatively
affected farmers’ productivity, calories intake, and international competitiveness. This research investigates how standard
weights and measures can secure farmers’ profits at local markets. Using a random selection of 312 farmers for the
questionnaire survey at two markets, we examine the impact of current pricing methods on farmers’ profits and advantages
of standard weights and measures for farmers. The results show that price decision-making was based on three primary
methods: (1) traditional weights and measures, (2) negotiation with individual marketers, and (3) negotiation with market
queens. Markets queens and traditional measures negatively influenced farmers’ profits. Farmers’ perceptions showed that
standard weights and measures would not only increase their profits at local markets but also enhance their international
competitiveness.
Keywords— Ghana, food security, local market, weights and measures.
I. INTRODUCTION
The number of people who suffer from food insecurity in Ghana has increased from 1.2 million in 2009 to 2.1 million in
2016 (FAO, 2017). Rural communities suffer the most. According to a World Food Programme report (WFPR, 2016), about
15.5% of people in Ghana’s Brong Ahafo Region, which is mainly rural, are food insecure. Of what Brong Ahafo residents
eat 36% comes from their own farms and58% from local markets (WFPR, 2016). This means that local markets play
important roles in ensuring rural farmer’s food security.
Farmers in the Brong Ahafo Region face many difficulties to optimize their sales benefits at the market. Our earlier study
(Antwi and Matsui, 2018) found that traders' ad hoc bargaining exploited the majority of farmers in this Region. Crop and
vegetable prices were often determined by traditional weights and measures that traders preferred. Adejobi (2011) similarly
found that traditional weights and measures at local markets created price inefficiencies. As a result, farmers who come to
sell their products at market tend to distrust the market’s pricing system (Pool et al., 2003).
This paper examines the extent to which standard weights and measures rather than traditional ones can secure profits for
farmers in Ghana so that the country can reduce the number of its food insecure people in the future. In order to achieve the
objective, we try to identify (1) current pricing practices at minor and major local markets, (2) effects of these practices on
farmers’ profits, (3) determinants of farmers’ profits, and (4) farmers’ perceptions about using standard weights and
measures. In the following discussion, we first describe the significance of our study area. We then explain our methodology
and discuss the results of our filed study and questionnaire surveys.
II. LITERATURE REVIEW
USAID (2013), noted that local markets in Africa are known for lower quality products due to lack of grading and packaging
standards. Standardisation system helps farmers to identify quality levels by grade and package. In so doing, consumers are
better informed about products at the local markets. Researchers showed that a standardized pricing at market ensures the
efficient distribution of food to consumers, create employment opportunities for more farmers, provide competitive
advantage in regional exports and increase farmer’s profit margins (Adejobi et al., 2011; International Labour Organization,
2014).
The dominance of marketers at market over price determination has discouraged the participation of women and youths in
agriculture (Feed the Future, 2017). Instead many tend to choose other trade options in developed countries despite the
availability of government incentives that promote farming. Farmers in African countries, mostly smallholders, cover their
production cost from the sales profit they obtain from selling their products. Therefore, securing optimal profits is critical for
them to sustainably commercialize farming (Dolan and Humphrey, 2000).
2. International Journal of Environmental & Agriculture Research (IJOEAR) ISSN:[2454-1850] [Vol-5, Issue-12, December- 2019]
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In Ghana, local markets lack transparency (Lyon, 2003; Ortiz et al., 2010 and Yiridoe, 2005). Antwi and Matsui (2018)
found that food prices at local markets were determined by the interplay of bargaining power and ad hoc weights/measures
between farmers and marketers. The valuation of a fair return for farmers has resulted partly in price fluctuations and low
profits. Other researchers found that price fluctuation at local markets posed challenges in the supply chain (Saurav and
Neeraj, 2015). To solve such problems, trade associations headed by so-called “market queens” or market leaders were
established in the 1970s to introduce some form of standards in price-fixing. However, these market queens upheld ad hoc
traditional market transactions in a way that benefited their interests (Lyon, 2003; Ortiz et al., 2010). More recently, however,
the Ghanaian government introduced the standard weights and measures partly to override the power of market queens and
their intermediate partners. However, the effectiveness of this new policy is not yet observed at daily transaction practices at
Ghana’s local markets (Antwi and Matsui, 2018; Yiridoe, 2005). So, the fundamental question is whether or not smallholder
farmers in food insecure areas of Ghana and elsewhere can increase their profits from adopting standardized weights and
measures. We found very little study on this question in our literature review.
III. METHODOLOGY
3.1 Study area
The survey was conducted in the Brong Ahafo Region. This region is known as the “food basket” of Ghana because most
residents are farmers who raise important cash crops like cocoa, cashew, fruit trees, maize, rice, yam, and other vegetables
(SADA, 2016). Using purposive sampling, two markets were selected from two municipalities: Berekum Market and
Techiman Market.
Berekum Municipality is located in the north-western part of the Region. According to the Ghana population census of 2010,
the municipality had a population of 129,628. The Ghana Statistical Service projected that the municipality population would
reach 156,349 by the end of 2019, a 17% increase. More than half of the populations (129,628) were economically active and
involved in agriculture, mostly growing tomato, plantain, maize, eggplant, pepper, okra, cassava, rice, and yam. Most farmers
(83.5%) were literate (Ghana Statistical Service, 2012). Berekum Market operates on Thursdays when marketers and farmers
within the boundary of Berekum Municipality and outside meet. Also, as this market is close to Cote D'Ivoire, Cote D’Ivoire
buyers often come for acquiring tomato, garden-egg, pepper, plantain, cassava, maize, and many other farm products.
Techiman Municipality is situated in the central part of the Brong Ahafo Region with a population of 147,788, of which
about 74.2% were economically active. About 46.2% was involved in agriculture, mostly cultivating tomato, eggplant,
pepper, cabbage, okra, maize, and yam. About 74.2% of the residents in this municipality were literate (Ghana Statistical
Service, 2012). Techiman Market is one of the largest markets in Ghana and operates three days a week (Monday to
Wednesday). Monday and Tuesday are for wholesale crops, while Wednesday is for both wholesale and retail transactions.
This market attracts people from other West African countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, and Niger as well as Ghana’s
big cities like Accra and Kumasi.
These two municipality markets are important to rural farmers. Berekum Municipality Market is operated by those who live
in Berekum and neighboring towns, while Techiman Municipality Market, an urban market, brings different tribes to trade.
Traditionally Techiman Market is located on one of the major trading routes between the northern and southern boundaries of
Ghana. It was the primary center for trading bulk foodstuffs such as yams, grains, and vegetables from north Ghana to urban
markets in Accra, Kumasi, Takoradi, and CapeCoast.
3.2 Data collection and Analysis
The data collection for this research was primarily based on a semi-structured questionnaire to gather responses from farmers
at the two markets. Our survey attempted to understand farmers’ perceptions about the benefits of traditional pricing and the
prospects of having standard weights and measures (Lyon, 2000). It was conducted in the period between August and
October 2018. In total, we collected valid responses from 312 farmers (165 from Berekum and 147 from Techiman). The
response rate was 98%. Before conducting this survey, eight skilled enumerators were briefed to administer the
questionnaire. The study was supervised with the collaboration of municipal information officers (MIS) in Berekum and
Techiman. In the same period, we conducted in-person interviews with ten farmers, each from the two municipalities to seek
their understanding of the questionnaire and personal experiences on the current pricing methods. We also undertook pre-
survey observations at the two markets to familiarize ourselves with the area and observe how they transacted businesses.
3. International Journal of Environmental & Agriculture Research (IJOEAR) ISSN:[2454-1850] [Vol-5, Issue-12, December- 2019]
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The survey focused on three sets of questions: (1) socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents, (2) farmers’ current
pricing practices and their profits, (3) farmers’ perceptions about standard weights and measures, including their motivating
factors.
We assessed the performance of six current price-setting methods on farmers’ profits at market and factors influencing the
use of standard weights and measures by using multiple regression analyses. The coefficient was identified to measure the
strength of the relationship between variables. P-value (typically ≤ 0.05 and > 0.05) was used to determine the significance of
the results and whether to accept or reject the null hypothesis.
IV. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
4.1 Socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents
The first part of our survey asked the respondents about their age, education, gender, work experience, family size and farm
size. These are important to identify relevant factors for our multiple regression analyses. The result shows that about 67% of
our respondents were men (Table 1). Here it is important to note that in general men in Ghana dominate commercial farming
activities. Regarding education, 63% of the respondents had formal training up to tertiary level, and 37% had no formal
education. The majority (84%) were married with an average family size of six persons. Regarding age, the average age of
the respondents was 42 years old with a minimum age at 22 years old and a maximum at 71 years old. This indicates an
aging issue among local farmers. This tendency is similar in other parts of the country (Feed the Future, 2017; Okoffo et al,
2016). Our respondents had an average farm size of nine acres, and 14 years of trading experience at local market.
TABLE 1
SOCIO-DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS OF FARMERS AT BEREKUM AND TECHIMAN MARKETS
Characteristics % Response
Sex
Male Female
67.1 32.1
Education
None Primary/JSS Senior/Form 4 Tertiary
36.5 45.2 16.6 1.6
Marital Status
Married Single Divorced Widow
84.9 7.4 4.8 2.9
Descriptive Statistics
Min Max Mean Standard Deviation
Age 22 71 42 8.9
Work Experience 1 50 14 8.3
Family size 1 15 6 3.1
Farm Size (acre) 0.5 40 9 13.6
4.2 Current pricing practices at Berekum and Techiman markets
To better understand current pricing practices among farmers at the two markets, we asked the respondents to select the
methods they had used to set prices with multiple choices. Based on information we collected from local market authorities
and our own field observation at these two markets, we listed six choices (Table 2). One of the options, which is unique in
Ghana, is to negotiate with a market queen. According to Aguda (2009), market queens no longer influenced pricing at
Ghana’s markets, but our earlier study found otherwise (Antwi and Matsui, 2018). So, we wanted to know how this
traditional practice persisted. Other options we listed included negotiation with individual buyers, the use of ad hoc
traditional measures (e.g., olonka as a unit that uses different sizes of empty cans as containers for vegetables like tomatoes),
the use of standardized weights and measures, and negotiation with market and farmers’ associations.
The result shows about 96% of our respondents arbitrarily used varying sizes of traditional weights and measures. In our
fieldwork, we observed that farmers in Berekum mainly used black buckets and baskets with different sizes for bulk trade or
wholesale. For retail sales, they used calibrated tins or olonkas. At Techiman Market, people from northern Ghana used
calabash and “koko bowls” in trading grains while those from south used buckets and baskets for vegetables and fish. About
62% of the respondents at Techiman Market negotiated with market queens and leaders of market associations while 68%
dealt with individual marketers. These are the practices farmers complained about marketer’s unfair pricing practices.
In response to our question about the past use of standard weights and measures at the markets, about 81% of the respondents
were negative. However, the respondents generally believed that standards would make pricing practices fairer. Additionally,
4. International Journal of Environmental & Agriculture Research (IJOEAR) ISSN:[2454-1850] [Vol-5, Issue-12, December- 2019]
Page | 9
we interviewed farmers who traded cashew and cocoa at Techiman Market. They said they used standard weights and
measures to keep track of their production and benefits at the end of the harvesting season. From the results we found that
some farmers (39%) benefited from farmers’ associations, especially at Techiman. These associations negotiate with market
queens for member farmers. They also help the farmer’s loan from banks and other financial institutions.
TABLE 2
FARMERS PRICING PRACTICES AT LOCAL MARKET
Pricing Method Yes No
Negotiated with market queens 194 62% 118 38%
Negotiated with individual marketers 211 68% 101 32%
Used traditional weights and measures 299 96% 13 4%
Used standard weights and measures 58 19% 254 81%
Market associations 78 25% 234 75%
Farmers’ association 122 39% 190 61%
4.3 The effects of traditional price setting on farmers
We then asked the respondents to indicate their level of agreement and disagreement with five provided statements about
pricing practices. The results show that 67% of the respondents did not think that they would obtain a fair price for their
products at local markets (Table 3). Similarly, 68% felt cheated at markets in the process of pricing their products. The
respondents attributed this problem to the influence of marketers, market queens and a lack of standard weights and
measures. Although negotiations allow farmers and marketers to decide on prices, farmers are sometimes forced to accept
marketers’ offers. Regarding unfairness at the market for farmers, 68% of our respondents said their profits did not increase
by using traditional weights and measures.
TABLE 3
FARMER’S PERCEPTIONS ABOUT CURRENT PRICING
Percentage of the respondents
Strongly Agree Agree Not sure Disagree Strongly disagree
Do you receive a fair price? 26 3 4 0 67
Do traditional weights optimize profits? 3 16 9 3 68
Has profit margin increased in last 5-10 years? 11 29 33 23 4
Is price negotiation beneficial? 20 20 7 18 36
Do price cheating occur? 68 0 0 0 32
4.4 Significance of current pricing on farmers’ profits at local market
To understand the extent to which the current ad hoc pricing practices affected farmer’s profits, we tried to find the
relationship between farmer’s profits and pricing practices through regression analyses (Table 4). Among the six methods
of pricing we asked the respondents to identify, negotiations with market queens had the most significant P-value of 1.1E-
11 and a coefficient of 0.298. This reiterates our earlier finding that market queens still have a strong influence on pricing
activities at Berekum and Techiman markets despite the national policy to abolish their roles in the 1980s.
The multiple regression analysis result for the other pricing methods (negotiation with individual traders, traditional
measures and markets associations) were significant at a P-value of 4.05E-8, 0.50 and 1.9E-5 respectively (Table 4).
However, coefficient values for traditional measures and market associations were -0.128 and -0.048, a sign of negative
relationship. These results indicate that the minimal usage of traditional measures and market associations’ support can
5. International Journal of Environmental & Agriculture Research (IJOEAR) ISSN:[2454-1850] [Vol-5, Issue-12, December- 2019]
Page | 10
increase farmer’s profits and help them make better price-decisions. Replacing ad hoc measures with standardized ones can
minimize the influence of market queens. Institutional support rather than individual efforts ends to promote transparency
and trust at local market.
TABLE 4
REGRESSION RESULT OF PROFIT DETERMINANTS
Factors Profit
Negot.
Queen
Negot.
Individual
Traditional
Measure
Standard
Measure
Market
Ass.
Farmer
Ass.
Profit . .000 .000 .050 .000 .000 .000
Negotiate Queens 1.16E-11 . .000 .270 .000 .000 .000
Negotiate
Individuals
4.05E-8 .000 . .011 .000 .000 .000
Traditional weights .050 .270 .011 . .031 .007 .036
Standard weights 4.1E-5 .000 .000 .031 . .000 .000
Markets
Associations
1.9E-5 .000 .000 .007 .000 . .000
Farmer Association 2.6E-10 .000 .000 .036 .000 .000 .
4.5 Farmers’ perceptions about standard weights and measures
Having these results, we tried to understand farmers’ perceptions about the use of standard weights and measures. We asked
farmers to answer the extent to which they agreed or disagreed with four possible results from the use of these standards
(Table 5). We found that about 89% of the respondents strongly agreed that the use of standards could improve their profits.
More than half (60%) of the respondents perceived that standard weights and measures would motivate them to increase their
production. Also, almost all the respondents strongly agreed or agreed that standard weights and measures would better
inform marketers and consumers about their products (Table 5). Lastly, about 69% of our respondents strongly agreed or
agreed that the use of standard weights measures would help compete with the supermarket and international trade.
TABLE 5
FARMERS’ PERCEPTIONS ABOUT THE BENEFITS FROM USING STANDARDS
Percentage of respondents
Strongly Agree Agree Not sure Disagree Strongly disagree
Standards would improve my profit 89 0 0 0 11
They better inform about products 50 31 16 3 0
They help compete with supermarkets 46 23 20 7 4
They encourage to increase production 60 0 0 0 40
4.6 Factors influencing the use of standard weights and measures
Ghana has formulated a policy that imposes the use of standard weights and measures at all local markets. As this policy is
not yet fully implemented, we tried to identify factors that can influence the implementation. In particular, we tried to find
out how our respondent’s age, education, farm size, and experience can influence the level of policy implementation. The
multiple regression analysis results showed that farm size, age, education, and farming experience were significant at a P-
value of 5% (p<0.05). However, the coefficient values for education and experience showed negative. This indicates that
inadequate training and information on the use of standard weights and measures may affect farmer’s usage and price
decision-making (Table 6).
TABLE 6
REGRESSION ANALYSIS OF FACTORS INFLUENCING STANDARD WEIGHT AND MEASURE
Factors Standard weight Age Education Experience Farm size
Standard weight . .021 .183 .361 .000
Age .021 . .423 .043 .000
Education .183 .423 . 0.05E-3 .050
Experience .361 .043 0.05E-3 . .001
Farm size 1.67E-17 0.04E-4 .050 .001 .
6. International Journal of Environmental & Agriculture Research (IJOEAR) ISSN:[2454-1850] [Vol-5, Issue-12, December- 2019]
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V. CONCLUSION
Inefficient and opaque transaction practices at Ghana’s local markets directly or indirectly affect the current rise in food
secure people in rural Ghana. Market queens continue to influence the pricing system. This led to the loss of farmers’ profits
and limited farmers’ purchasing ability. Also, traditional market price negotiations led to the loss of farmers’ profits. Farmers
were well-aware of these conditions as about 67% of our respondents found that they did not receive a fair price for their
products, and 68% felt cheated in negotiation. They did emphasize the importance of having standard weights and measures
to decide on prices. These farmers appear to be ready to adopt standard weights and measures as they believed that these
standards would better inform marketers and consumers about products, allowing them to better compete with supermarkets
and international markets. The respondents also believed that these standards would incentivize further production,
potentially revitalizing aging agricultural sector. For the Ghanaian government to successfully implement its market
standardization policy it needs to better inform farmers and marketers about benefits standard weights and measures can
bring.
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