Assessment of farmers’ decision to add value to cassava roots in the Greater Accra Region, Ghana

Abstract

Cassava production and processing are major livelihood activities of most households in Ghana. This study examined the relationships between cassava farmers and processors on one hand, and a intermediary High Quality cassava flour processor (Amasa) on another hand. The study also ascertained the profit levels of farmer who sell the cassava roots to the intermediary processor as compared to when they process the roots into grits, agbelima and gari. It was found that farmers make higher profit when they process the cassava roots into grits, agbelima and gari. However, selling cassava roots to Amasa enables the farmers to get ready and bulk cash, extension services, improved planting materials and credit facilities during land preparation. It was concluded that farmers who decode to add value to their own cassava root need additional support extension services, improved planting materials, better processing, practice and business skills to contribute meaningfully in the higher value cassava markets.