Abstract:
The study examined the economic and social upgrading in the mango value chain
for smallholder producers in the Shai-Osudoku District of the Greater Accra
Region. A mixed method research approach was used while the cross-sectional
design constituted the study design. The study adopted the census approach in
selecting a population size of 133 respondents. Interview schedule, interview guide,
focus group discussion guides and an observation guide were used for data
collection. Data analysis involved the application of descriptive statistics, chi-
square test, margin analysis, ANOVA, independent t-test and a thematic analysis.
The study found that mango production in the district is highly efficient and
profitable. In addition, producers have economically upgraded their operations and
others transcended to export their own produce, yet, there were inadequate
improvement in the social conditions of workers. The study identified certain
constraints that impede economic and social upgrading, as well as some potential
opportunities. The study concludes that producers are experiencing economic
upgrading, however, substantial improvements are still essential for social
upgrading. The study recommended that Ministry of Food and Agriculture
(MOFA) should effectively initiate well documented policies on mango production
and scale up capacity building initiatives toward attitudinal and behaviour change
to help producers appreciate the need for ensuring decent and healthy working
environment for workers. Furthermore, producers should forge partnership with
other mango farmer-based groups and/or buyers to create a financial scheme to
address the financial and market inefficiencies.
