Peer Learning and Technology Adoption in Cashew Nut Production: Evidence from APPEALS Cluster Farmers in Kogi State, Nigeria.

Abstract

In the context of increasing global demand for cashews and the need for sustainable agricultural innovation, this study examines how peer learning facilitates the adoption and diffusion of cashew production technologies among farmers within a World Bank‑supported Nigeria Agro Processing, Productivity Enhancement, and Livelihood Support (APPEALS) project. A cluster sampling technique was used to select 180 cashew nut farmers. A questionnaire, direct interviews, records from focus group discussions, and iel trips were used to collect data. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics and theTobit regression model. Results showed that there was active participation in the sharing and exchange of ideas, technologies, information, and innovations among farmersthroughone‑on‑onecontactwithfellowfarmers,technicaladvisory/extensionvisitsbytheAPPEALSteam, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), and iel trips and demonstrations. Most of the technologies, such as Integrated Pest Management (IPM), ie terracing, nursery preparation techniques, and marketing, were at the interest, trial, and adoption stages, except for the soil sampling technique, which was at the awareness stage. Education, farming experience, marital status, and household size signi icanty in luence the probability of intensifying the adoption of cashew production technologies. It is recommended that efforts should be made to strengthen the adoption of technologies.