Smallholder vegetable farmers‘ perceptions and willingness to accept agribusiness model innovation: a study in central region of ghana

Abstract

An agribusiness model provides farmers with a significant production and marketing edge, which helps them enjoy better livelihoods. The main objective of the research was to analyse Smallholder Vegetable Farmers‘ Perceptions and Willingness to accept an Agribusiness Model Innovation (AMI). The study was carried out in two communities in the central region of Ghana namely; Ayensudo and Dehia. The study was guided by four objectives which were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. 250 farmers were selected for the study through purposive sampling. Primary data was utilised through a questionnaire. Results from the study revealed that farmers in Ayensudo were more likely to be aware of contract farming and out-grower schemes while farmers in Dehia were more aware of supply chain management. Farmers perceived sustainable agribusiness innovation to be an effective means of achieving optimum productivity. However, these model innovations were not compatible with most farmers‘ socio-cultural beliefs and values. Also, landholding status, access to finance, householding status, and perception were significant predictors of farmers‘ willingness to accept AMI. In conclusion, vegetable farmers in the Central Region showed a high level of acceptance of the agribusiness model innovations but financial services had difficulty in accessing them. The study recommends that the Ministry of Agriculture through the Government of Ghana should help provide financial support to smallholder farmers through microloans and credit facilities designed to facilitate their investment in AMI.