Usage of improved input technologies in maize farming and rural development in the Ketu North Municipality of Ghana

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to determine proportion of sampled farmers who used improved input technologies, to examine the factors that affect usage of the technologies, and to estimate the outcomes for rural development in the Ketu North Municipality of Ghana. Theories of traditional agriculture, technological determinism, and technology acceptance underpinned the study. The study used a mixed-method approach, comprising a survey of 300 farmers, and key informant interviews to arrive at the findings. The quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square, Wilcoxon sum test, logit models and Foster- Greer-Thorbecke (FGT) poverty index, while the key informant interviews were transcribed and interpreted. The study found that majority (61%) of the farmers used improved maize varieties at erratic ratios of fertilizer application, and that the municipal crop office supplied the improved input technologies, which were introduced to farmers via demonstrations by extension agents. Membership of farm-based unions, quality of extension contacts, access to phone-based extensions, years of education, and access to credit facilitated usage of improved technologies, while years of experience explained the non-usage. The outcomes were that users of improved technologies had higher maize yield, income, food security, and lower poverty incidence, lower gap and lower severity than nonusers, whereas input maize price consistently increased food insecurity. The conclusion was that improved input technologies present potentials for poverty reduction through increased yield, income and food security as a pathway for rural development. Thus, it was recommended for the farmers to deepen the usage of improved technologies in farming for increased yield and associated benefits that are necessary for rural development.