The Influence Of Agricultural Information Sources On The Practices And Livelihood Outcomes Of Cassava Farmers In Upper West Akim District

ABSTRACT Cassava farmers in the district have a variety of information needs; however, these information requirements are unmet by the public extension agents who are mandated to deliver agricultural information to the farmers. The main objective of the study was therefore to determine the sources of agricultural information available and its influence on the farm practices and livelihood outcomes of the cassava farmers in the district. The survey research methodology was employed, and used multi-stage sampling to select 200 farmers from the communities for the study. Primary data was collected using structured questionnaires. The data collected was stored and analyzed using SPSS Version 21 Software. Both descriptive and inferential statistical tools were used in analyzing the data. Chi-square test of independence was the main inferential statistical tool employed in the analysis of the data because most of the variables of interest were measured on nominal and ordinal scale. The study showed that the sources of agricultural information mainly used by the cassava farmers were fellow farmers (82%), radio (66%), agricultural extension agents (46%), input dealers (38%) and with the least source used being newspapers/agricultural bulletins (6.5%). The study also found that age, farming experience and land tenure arrangement of the farmers significantly influenced sources from which agricultural information were obtained. It was also noted that, although, majority of the farmers sourced for agronomic, market and credit information, it was only credit information which was found to have a significant influence on the farm practices undertaken by the farmers. A statistically significant relationship was observed between farmer’s agricultural practice and their level of yield and income but not well-being and food security. It  was recommended that extension officers in the district should extend credit information to the farmers and assist them to access credit. This may ensure that agricultural information obtained by the cassava farmers can be put into practice in other to improve their livelihood outcomes.