Economic and social upgrading by farmers in the mango value chain in the Shai-Osudoku district of the Greater Accra Region, Ghana

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.