Adoption of Genetically Modi ied Maize Technology in Ghana

Abstract

The paper investigates farmers’ awareness of genetically modi ied maize technology, perceived challenges, willingness to adopt, and the factors influencing their decision. This research employs Binary Probit model and Kendall’s constraint ranking technique for the analyses, based on cross‑sectional data from 550 maize farmers across ive regions in Ghana: Northern, Bono,Ashanti, Western,andVolta. Theresultsdemonstratethat79%ofthe farmers areawareofGMmaize,and60%expresswillingnesstoadoptthetechnology. Keyfactorsinfluencingtheir willingness to adopt genetically modi ied maize include age, farm size, experience, extension services, and input costs. The top three constraints farmers perceive are limited consumer demand for GM maize, high costs of plant ing materials, and concerns over the crop’s potentially shorter lifespan. The study recommends intensifying GM maize awareness and beneits through workshops and educational initiatives. Additionally, direct sales channels for farmers should be promoted to boost their income. Furthermore, extension service delivery should be intensi ied with theneededlogisticstoenablethemattendtotheneedsoffarmersadequately,includingthedissemination of GMcrops. Wealsorecommendthatpolicymakersshoulddevelop channels through which farmers can sell their grains after harvesting so that they would be assured of a ready market for their GM produce.