Factors Affecting the Adoption of Fish Smoking Technology in Moree
Loading...
Date
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Ghana
Abstract
The paper studied the underlying factors that had informed the adoption decision of the
Chorkor smoker in the Moree community. Fish smoking is an affordable traditional fish preser
vation method that has been employed in most developing countries including Ghana. Smoked
fish continues to be a major protein source in most Ghanaian diets. The contribution of tech
nology can only be visible when and if the technology is widely used and diffused. Therefore,
understanding the factors that affected this choice is beneficial.
The main study objective was to examine the factors that led to the adoption of the Chorkor
smoker. This was achieved by using a qualitative approach. A semi-structured interview was
the main tool used to collect data for the study. The instrument for data collection was the
interview guide. Snowball and purposive sampling methods were employed to recruit partici
pants for the research. The primary source of information was derived directly from the fish
smokers and other stakeholders of the Chorkor smoker.
This study used Rogers’ theory of diffusion of innovations to describe and understand the life
experiences of fish processors. The theory helped to explain adoption, the different types of
adopters and why some people acquire technology faster than others. It is asserted that although
adopting a new technology can be extremely difficult, even in cases when there are clear ad
vantages, the adoption process is greatly influenced by a number of variables, including edu
cation, awareness, cost of inputs and features of the technology. Academics and Non-Govern
mental Organizations can benefit from this study as they begin to theorize the dynamic and
multifaceted role gender plays in fish processing. It is recommended that major stakeholders
launch awareness campaigns to educate fish smokers about the benefits of adopting newer fish
processing technologies. This study establishes a strong foundation for future research on fish
smoking technologies in Ghana and beyond.
Description
MPhil.Sociology