Impact of Pollinator Technology Adoption on Cocoa Productivity in the Osino Cocoa District in the Eastern Region, Ghana

Abstract

Improving pollination in cocoa production is important to enhancing yields in Ghana. However, the decline of natural pollinators (midges) in cocoa has been identified by Ghana Cocoa Board as a major challenge to increasing cocoa production. Interestingly, the adoption of improved agricultural technologies such as pollinator technology, which increases the population of midges, is an important component in cocoa productivity. This study examines the impact of pollinator technology adoption on cocoa productivity in the Osino cocoa district of Ghana using primary data from 400 cocoa farmers. The study employed descriptive statistics in assessing the perception of cocoa farmers on pollinator technology. The binary logit model was used to determine the factors that influence the adoption of pollinator technology. The Inverse Probability Weighted Regression Adjustment (IPWRA) was used to analyze the impact of adopting pollinator technology on productivity in the study area, and finally, the Kendell’s coefficient of concordance was employed to identify and rank the constraints to pollinator technology adoption. The study revealed that 47.5% of cocoa farmers have adopted pollinator technology and they have positive perceptions about the benefits of adopting the technology, such as increase in yields and improved soil quality. The socio-economic factors influencing farmers’ decision to adopt pollinator technology were access to extension services, training, membership of farmer-based organization and access to credit facilities. The findings showed that adopters of pollinator technology have average yield enhancement of 421.70 kilogram per hectare (kg/ha). The key constraints identified from the study were inadequate information, technical knowledge gaps, and lack of training which limit the rate of adoption. It is recommended that COCOBOD offers education, training, and support to cocoa farmers on pollinator technology. This will enhance its adoption for increased cocoa productivity, improve farmers’ livelihoods, and contribute to environmental protection.