CONSTRAINTS FACED BY CASHEW FARMER’S IN IFELODUN LOCAL

GOVERNMENT AREA KWARA STATE, NIGERIA

BY

ADESINA, TAIWO JOSEPH

15/10AC134

A PROJECT TO BE SUBMITTEDTO THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURAL

EXTENSION AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT,FACULTY OF AGRICULTURE IN

PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD OF DEGREE

OFBACHELOR OF AGRICULTURE,UNIVERSITY OF ILORIN,ILORIN, NIGERIA

 CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of Study

Agriculture has become a linchpin of Nigeria's economy; it employs about 70% of the active

labor force and contributed a GDP of 5408978.92 NGN Million in the third quarter of 2019

(Chemonics, 2002), up from 3857705.59 NGN Million in the second quarter of 2019, the

economy and employing its large number of unemployed. AnacardiumoccidentaleL., commonly

known as Cashew is an important export crop. often referred to as ‘wonder nut’, is one of the

most valuable processed nuts traded on the global commodity markets. Beginning largely as a

neglected crop, it ends up as a favorite snack food all over the world (Saveej M V and Saroj P L,

2014). The cashew industry plays a key role in the economic development of many Africa states;

it has been a means of achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) through the

economic empowerment of smallholder farmers and rural women. Cashew production creates

employment generation and small-medium scale industrialization in the rural areas of Nigeria.

Cashew is grown in thirty States of Nigeria and twenty-seven of these states grow cashew as

cash crops (Boillereau and Adam2007).

Cashew (AnacardiumoccidentaleL.) belongs to the order Sapindales, family Anacardiaceae

and genus Anacardium. The Anacardiaceae family consists of about 75 genera and 700 species

(Ibiremo et al., (2012)). Botanically, the Anacardiaceae includes primarily trees and shrubs with

resin canals, resinous bark and clear to milky exudates. The trees or shrubs have alternate, often

trifoliate or pinnate leaves. Flowers are generally not highly conspicuous and can either be

unisexual or bisexual. Only one carpel matures, forming a drupe (a fleshy fruit with a stoney
seed). In some cases, the drupy fruits produce an irritant called urushiol. Cashew is related to

Mango (MagniferaindicaL), Pistachio (PistaciaveraL), Poison ivy (Toxicodendronrydbergii) and

Poison oak (Toxicodendrondiversilobum) which are also in the Anacardiaceae family. In the

genus Anacardium, nine species are identified under numerical taxonomy (Mitchell and Mori,

1987). These include AnacardiumcorymbosumBarb.Rodr.p, AnacardiumexcelsumL.,

Anacardiumgiganteum(Bertero&Balb. ex Kunth) Skeels, AnacardiumhumileHance ex

Engl.,AnacardiummicrocarpumA.St.-Hil., ppp, AnacardiumnanumA.St.-Hil.,

AnacardiumnegrensePires& Froes, AnacardiumoccidentaleL. and

AnacardiumspruceanumBenth. ex Engl. Of all, only cashew (A. occidentale) is of economic

importance because of its edible apple and nutritious kernel. Cashew originated in Latin

America, specifically North-eastern Brazil (Ohler, 1979). Portuguese explorers introduced it to

the tropics of Asia and Africa from where it spread into other parts of the world.

At present, cashew is produced in 32 countries of the world with sufficient warm and

humid climate. The main producers, however, are Brazil, Benin Republic, Cote d'Ivoire, Ghana,

Guinea Bissau, India, Mozambique, Nigeria, Philippines, Srilanka, Tanzania, and Vietnam.

Cashew was introduced into Nigeria by the Portuguese traders around the 16th century

(Woodroof 1967; Ohler, 1979). It was first planted in Agege, Lagos State, from it, spread to a

few other parts of the country through the transfer of nuts by man. For over 400 years after the

introduction, cashew trees were exploited mainly for apple; no commercial value was attached to

the nuts (Aliyu, 2012). Many of the trees flourished in the wild while being utilized for

afforestation and erosion control scheme particularly in the escarpment areas of Udi in Anambra

state. The first commercial cashew planting in Nigeria was in mid-1950 at Ogbe, Oji, Udi, and

Mbala by the defunct Eastern Nigeria Development Corporation (ENDC) and Iwo, Eruwa and
Upper Ogun by the defunct Western Nigeria Development Corporation (WNDC) (Akinwale and

Esan, 1989; Asogwa et al., 2009). These plantations were established with introduced Indian

cashew varieties. Progress in the cashew industry then was low due to general neglect and poor

management of the plantations. With the involvement of private entrepreneurs, Federal and State

Governments, and affluent farmers more nuts were obtained in 1978, 1980, and 1982 from India,

Tanzania, Mozambique, and Brazil to broaden the cashew genetic base of the country. Although

cashew was introduced into Nigeria more than 400 years ago, extensive cultivation started only

in the early 1950s. From 1965 to 1990 cashew production was relatively static at 25,000 tons

with an estimated land area of 50,000 ha in 1990. Currently, cashew cultivation has spread to

about 27 states of the country and in the past 12 years, production has increased almost thirty-

fold from 30,000 MT in 1990 to 836,500 MT in 2012 from the estimated land area of 366,000 ha

(FAOSTAT, 2013). Breeding activities on Cashew in Nigeria started with germplasm

introductions, followed by evaluations, selections, and release of identified superior varieties to

farmers (Akinwale and Esan, 1989). Other research areas included assessments of morphological

and molecular characteristics, ploidy status, reproductive biology, development of improved

technology for large-scale production of value-added cashew products, formulation of

comprehensive farm management practices, soil and mineral requirements assessments and

effective strategies for pest and disease control (Oduwole et al., 2001; Asogwa et al., 2008;

Aliyu, 2012, 2004; Ibiremo et al., 2012;).

Today, cashew cultivation has spread to almost all the states of Nigeria with increased

processing, shipping and exporting activities. The major Cashew growing areas in the different

parts of Nigeria in the order of the level of productivity for the different regions of the country

are: Enugu, Abia, Imo, Anambra, Ebonyi, and Cross River States in the east and southern part,
Oyo, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti, and Ogun States in the western part, Kwara, Kogi, Nassarawa, Benue,

Taraba, Niger, Federal Capital Territory (Abuja), Kaduna and Plateau in the Middle Belt and

Sokoto and Kebbi States in the North-western of the country (Ezeagu, 2002; Chemonic 2002). It

is noteworthy that the majority of export quality nuts come from the Western and Eastern parts

of the country.

Morphologically, the architecture of the cashew tree makes it a foremost tree crop for

reclaiming land area to enhanced productivity, through the prevention of desertification and soil

erosion. The drought-resistant, evergreen cashew tree is economically grown for its nut, apple,

and wood. Products derived from the nuts include the world's highly delighted roasted kernel

snacks, kernel oil, cashew nut shell liquid, and from the apple: juice, jam, and alcohol among

others. Cashew wood is also used for furniture and fishing boats. Of all, the cashew nut is the

most economic part of the cashew tree providing foreign exchange earnings for producer

countries. The many importance of cashew makes it a topmost tree crop for intensive research.

Breeding activities on Cashew in Nigeria started with germplasm introductions, followed by

evaluations, selections, and release of identified superior varieties to farmers (Akinwale and

Esan, 1989). Other research areas included assessments of morphological and molecular

characteristics, ploidy status, reproductive biology, development of improved technology for

large-scale production of value-added cashew products, formulation of comprehensive farm

management practices, soil and mineral requirements assessments and effective strategies for

pest and disease control (Aliyu, 2012, 2004; Oduwole et al., 2001; Ibiremo et al., 2012; Asogwa

et al., 2008). Cashew has gained the status of a commercial crop through technological

advancements concerning propagation, production, management and mechanized processing

(Sajeev et al. 2014). This change was fueled as a result of increasing demand for raw cashew
nuts and enhanced interest for its commercialization (Venkattakumar 2009). Cashew can grow in

fairly poor soils with relatively little rainfall of 1 000 mm/year with a clear dry season of two-

four months. These attributes, plus the fact that little capital requirement for orchard

establishment and low nut perishability minimizes the coordination requirements for post-harvest

activities, have given cashew the reputation of being a crop that can be taken up successfully in

less fertile soils (Jaffee 1995).

Presently, cashew cultivation receives dwindling importance in response to the price

fluctuations in other plantation crops like are canut, cocoa, rubber and coconut (Venkattakumar

and Bhat 2003). The cashew farmers in the region are shifting to rubber plantation and other

more remunerative cash crops (Ganapathi and Akash 2013). To improve the cashew cultivation

scenario of major cashew-growing regions, assessment of the socio-economic impact created by

cashew cultivation, its determinants and constraints faced by cashew farmers in cultivation are

very important. To explore the applicability of impact analysis premise in the context of socio-

economics of cashew cultivation, a study was undertaken also Cashew production has not

received adequate attention from the Federal Government since the advent of oil in the 1960s.

There is abandonment and significant decline in yield of cashew in most growing areas of

Nigeria, Hammed, Anikwe, Adedeji (2008). For instance, it was reported that a farm having

400ha cultivated to cashew in Ogun State needs the intervention of CRIN scientists in

rehabilitating and putting it into productive venture. Therefor this study specifically seeks to

examine constraint faced by cashew farmers (a case study in Ifelodun Local Government Area

Kwara State)
1.2 Statement of Problem

Cashew production has greatly improved over the past two decades, with increased yields and

greater harvests coming from differing cultivars. This allows for improved quantity and quality

over a smaller piece of acre, which was not possible a few years ago. However, despite the

tremendous potentials that the cashew offers to the farmers, the state and the economy, it isn't

fulfilling its potentials in Nigeria, and Ifelodun L.G.A as a case study. Commercial cashew

plantation in Nigeria had started since the early 1950s, and since then, exportation as been on the

rise. Yet, instead of yield to increase per acre, the area of production is the drive behind the yield.

This suggests an underlying divide between 'what is' and 'what should be'. It, therefore, begs a

curiosity into studying what those “divides” are, and proffer solutions to them. This study seeks

to fill the gap by examining constraint faced by cashew farmers (a case study in Ifelodun Local

Government Area Kwara State).

Cashew is an important industrial and export crop providing livelihood for over 300,000 families

and sustaining 600, 0000 jobs (International Trade Centre, 2015). However, despite the

tremendous potentials that cashew offers to the farmers, the state and the economy, the crop isn't

fulfilling its potentials in Kwara state, Nigeria; as these farmers are suffering from declining

productivity and dwindling export earnings because of the constraints they are facing. As a

result, Nigerian cashew is less competitive in the international market compared with

neighboring West African countries like Benin, Cameroon, Ghana and Cote d'Ivoire.

Therefore, this study will fill the existing gap regarding constraints faced by cashew farmers in

Ifelodun Local Government Area and proffer solutions to them.

The study therefore intends to provide answers to the following research questions;
1.3 Research Questions

i. Describe the socio-economic characteristics of cashew farmers in the study

ii. Examine the sources of information available for cashew production in the study

iii. Identify constraints faced by cashew farmers in the study

iv. Identify numbers of extension farmers

1.4 Objectives of the study

The main objective of the study is to examine constraint faced by cashew farmers (a case study

in Ifelodun Local Government Area Kwara State), Nigeria.

The specific objectives are:

I. Describe the socio-economic characteristics of cashew farmers in the study

II. Examine the sources of information available for cashew production in the study

III. Identify constraints faced by cashew farmers in the study

IV. Identify numbers of extension farmers

1.5 Research Hypothesis

The following hypothesis were tested;

HO1 There is no significant relationship between selected socio-economic characteristics of

cashew farmers and the constraints faced in cashew production

1.6 Justification of the study

This research aimed at achieving improved agricultural productivity and increased income of

cashew production. This research work will also increase cashew productivity with a defined

market which will result in improved income for farmers

It will also be beneficial to Private sector seed supply which allows them in participatory or

community seed production, private seed companies will be actively involved from the planning

stage right to the implementation stage.

This study will also assist the government in coming up with farmer producer friendly policies

that will make them produce good quality cashew and also support for agricultural development.

This research work will also serve as a basis for further research and also be intensified on how

data can be made accessible to researchers

1.7 Scope and Limitation of the Study

The study will be carried out in Ifelodun Local Government Area kwara state, which is a

state in the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

1.8 Definition of Terms

 Constraints: are elements, factors, or sub-system,that works as a bottleneck. It restricts

an entity, project or system (such as production, or decision-making process) from

achieving its potential (or higher level of output) with reference to its goal.

 Cashew: is a bushy tropical American tree, bearing edible kidney-shaped nut at the tip of

each swollen fruit, rich in oil and protein, which is roasted and shelled before eaten. Oils

extracted in the shells is used as a lubricant, in the production of plastics.

 CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.0 HISTORY OF CASHEW IN NIGERIA

Cashew was introduced into Nigeria by the Portuguese traders around the 16th century Ezeagu,

2002). It was first planted in Agege, Lagos State, from it spread to a few other parts of the

country through transfer of nuts by man. For over 400 years after introduction, cashew trees were

exploited mainly for apple; no commercial value was attached to the nuts (Aliyu, 2012). Many of

the trees flourished in the wild while being utilized for afforestation and erosion control scheme

particularly in the escarpment areas of Udi in Anambra state. The first commercial cashew

planting in Nigeria was in the mid 1950 at Ogbe, Oji, Udi and Mbala by the defunct Eastern

Nigeria Development Corporation (ENDC) and Iwo, Eruwa and Upper Ogun by the defunct

Western Nigeria Development Corporation (WNDC) (Asogwa et al., 2009). These plantations

were established with introduced Indian cashew varieties. Progress in the cashew industry then

was low due to general neglect and poor management of the plantations. With the involvement of

private entrepreneurs, Federal and State Governments, and affluent farmers more nuts were

obtained in 1978, 1980 and 1982 from India, Tanzania, Mozambique and Brazil to broaden the

cashew genetic base of the country. Today, cashew cultivation has spread to almost all the states

of Nigeria with increased processing, shipping and exporting activities. The major Cashew

growing areas in the different parts of Nigeria in the order of the level of productivity with

respect to the different regions of the country are: Enugu, Abia, Imo, Anambra, Ebonyi and

Cross River States in the east and southern part, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti and Ogun States in the

western part, Kwara, Kogi, Nassarawa, Benue, Taraba, Niger, Federal Capital Territory (Abuja),
Kaduna and Plateau in the Middle Belt and Sokoto and Kebbi States in the North-western of the

country ( Chemonic, 2002). It is noteworthy that the majority of exportquality nuts come from

the Western and Eastern parts of the country.

2.1 CASHEW PRODUCTS AND USES

Cashew was originally used in Africa in afforestation schemes or as a fire protection barrier

around forest demarcations (Orwa et al., 2009). Currently, it is recognized as one of the most

important tropical crops and referred to as the “poor man’s crop, rich man’s food”, and is grown

for its nuts (Jaffee, 2005). The kernels, which have a high nutritional and commercial value, are

used for human consumption after decortication. The cashew nut processing industry is an

important economic activity in several countries such as India, Brazil and Vietnam and has also

recently gained expression in the Ivory Coast and Nigeria. The main steps involved in cashew

processing are as follows: drying of freshly harvested raw seed for storage, soaking of the seed,

steam cooking, hot oil roasting or dry roasting, shelling, separation, kernel drying, peeling and

packaging.

The cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) or cashew balm is highly corrosive oil produced in the large

cells of the pericarp, with numerous industrial and medical applications (Orwa et al., 2009).

CNSL is therefore a valuable product, but is ultimately burnt off during the roasting process,

even by large processors such as In-dia. A number of other products and uses are reported for the

cashew tree. The edible false fruit or cashew apple can be eaten fresh or mixed in fruit salads and

is important in several countries. Drinks are also pre-pared from the juice, as well as sweets and

jams (Beh-rens, 2006). The high sugar content of cashew juice permits the making of a

fermented beverage, cashew wine, which can be distilled to make spirits. Although apple juices,
jams and spirits have a long tradition of consumption, marketing cashew apple by-products is not

internationally extensive. The wood of A. occidental is fairly hard with a density of about 500 kg

m−3 (Orwa et al., 2009), being used as timber, firewood and in the production of charcoal.

Several other products can be obtained from the plant such as fibers, tannin, gum or resin and the

species also has numerous medicinal applications.

Given its high tolerance to external conditions and moderate demand on soil characteristics, this

crop has been planted in poor soils to prevent erosion and to recover the fertility of land

degraded by annual crops. The tree is also suitable for use in agroforestry systems and can be

intercropped with both annual and perennial herbs as well as trees and shrubs (Orwa et al., 2009)

2.2 MODE OF CASHEW PROPAGATION

Cashew is propagated mainly from the seed in Nigeria. Since seed nut incorporate a wide range

of genetic diversity, the genetic integrity of a particular clone or genotype can only be preserved

through vegetative propagation. Several methods of vegetative propagation have been attempted

in cashew viz., air layering, inarching, budding, marcotting or grafting which may be epicotyls,

soft wood, or flush side grafting. The degree of success of each varied in different countries with

attending limitations. Of all the methods, grafting was reported to be the best for large-scale

clonal seedling production of cashew, Tip or bud grafting is used in East Africa, India, Brazil,

and Ghana and up to 100% success rate have been obtained with 10-week old seedlings. Some

factors identified to affect the success of grafting includes period of the year or season of

grafting. For example, period with high maximum temperature and minimum humidity were

marked with higher rate of grafting success. Moreover, the type of propagation structure (mist
house, green house, open air and under shade) and the length of the scion have equally been

identified as success determining factors (Sagar, 2007).

In Nigeria, standardization of vegetative propagation techniques has been one of the important

thrust areas in research. Budding and grafting method were carried out with low level of

successes. Earlier trials revealed the effect of age of root stock and defoliation or non-defoliation

of stock and scion on the success of budding and grafting. In an experiment by Aliyu (2001),

grafting on 2, 3 and 4 months old root stock gave better result than the ones on 4, 5, 6 and 7

months old rootstock. In addition, budding success was between10 to44% while sprouting

percentage was 0 to14%. In the cleft grafting method, success was 4 to40%, while sprouting was

ranged between 4 to8%. However in both cases, the sprouts did not reach maturity (Aliyu, 2001).

The significant low success turn out seem to inform the need to standardize the vegetative

propagation methods in Cashew for higher success rate to meet commercial demands.

Efforts have been made in the application of tissue culture technique for mass propagation of

cashew (Aliyu, 2005). In vitroculture has proved successful for many horticultural fruit species

(Aliyu and Awopetu, 2005). The recalcitrant nature of cashew, abnormal development of calli

from explants, and browning of explants were some of the limiting factors to the tissue culture

success observed in cashew in Nigeria (Aliyu, 2005).Browning of explants has been reduced

through frequent transfers, addition of activated charcoal and dark treatments. Furthermore, use

of explants from in vitro germinated seedlings, or fungicidal treated young flush in MS

(Murashige and Skog) basal salt medium supplemented with cytokinins was found to improve

the invitro success rate of cashew significantly (Aliyu, 2005). However culture to full plant and

successful transfer to field has not been achieved.

2.3 BOTANY AND TAXONOMY OF Anacardium occidentale L

Cashew (Anacardiumoccidentale L.) belongs to the order Sapindales, family Anacardiaceae and

genus Anacardium. The Anacardiaceae family consists of about 75 genera and 700 species

Ibiremo et al., (2012). Botanically, the Anacardiaceae includes primarily trees and shrubs with

resin canals, resinous bark and clear to milky exudates. The trees or shrubs have alternate, often

trifoliate or pinnate leaves. Flowers are generally not highly conspicuous and can either be

unisexual or bisexual. Only one carpel matures, forming a drupe (a fleshy fruit with a stony

seed). In some cases, the drupy fruits produce an irritant called urushiol. Cashew is related to

Mango (Magnifera indicaL), Pistachio (Pistacia veraL), Poison ivy (Toxicodendronrydbergii)

and Poison oak (Toxicodendron diversilobum) which are also in the Anacardiaceae family. In the

genus Anacardium, nine species are identified under numerical taxonomy (Mitchell and Mori,

1987). These include Anacardiumcorymbosum Barb. Rodr.p, Anacardium excelsumL.,

Anacardiumgiganteum (Berteroand Balb. ex Kunth) Skeels, Anacardium humile, Hance ex

Engl., Anacardium microcarpum A.St.-Hil.,,ppp, Anacardium nanumA.St.-

Hil.,AnacardiumnegrensePires&Froes,AnacardiumoccidentaleL.AndAnacardiumspruceanumBen

th. ex Engl. Of all, only cashew (A. occidentale) is of economic importance because of its edible

apple and nutritious kernel

2.4 CASHEW VARIETIES

Genetic variability exists in cashew germplasm evaluated in Nigeria. Some of the most important

morphological distinguishing characteristics of cashew are: Nut size, form of tree, apple

colour(yellow, orange or red), disease resistance, fruit bearing capacity, etc. (Aliyu, 2007). Based

on nut size, there are six different size classes capable of meaningful description of cashew
characterization (Plate 1). The nut weight significantly correlates with the size, hence the six

different sizes of Jumbo (>16 g), extra-large (12-15 g), large (8-11 g), medium (6-7 g), small (2-

5 g) and madras (≤2 g). Earlier report by Hammed et al. (2008) documented that compensatory

nut yield exists among cultivars in the different size classes: cashew trees with heavier nuts

(Jumbo) yield less (8-10kg/tree) while trees with lighter nuts (e.g. medium and madras) of equal

maturity age yields more (30-250kg/tree). The varieties released in 1980 by the Cocoa Research

Institute of Nigeria (Aliyu, 2007) were characterized with minimum-sized nuts and a yield of

1000kg/ha. Further efforts at evaluating and documenting the existing germplasm in the country

lead to the identification of three varieties with superior characters. The Indian accessions were

found to be highly productive (2500kg/ha) but produced small sized nuts with kernel quality in

the range of W320to 450. It is noteworthy that the benchmark grade for high quality cashew

kernel is W320; this refers to a standard where 320 white cashew kernel amount to a pound by

weight. From Table 3, the lesser yielding Jumbo varieties however produce highest exportable

cashew kernel grade of W180 and higher volume of apple juice (Aliyu, 2004; 2007, 2011).

Presently, majority (about 80%) of Nigerian cashew trees produce small to medium nut size,

supposedly obtained from the Asian genetic sources, remaining 20% of trees are grown from

large sized (Brazilian) nuts (Aliyu, 2011). Cultivation is recommended for cultivars that have a

high kernel grade of W180, 210 and 240 which attract higher prices in the world market.

Combining higher nut yield with high kernel grade in one genotype is an important breeding

focus to meet up with the global quality challenge and good pricing.

2.5 CASHEW QUALITY

Generally, the mode of production, collection and storage practices affect the quality of cashew

nuts. Smallholding farmers may harvest apple to meet urgent cash needs, without minding the
maturity status of nuts. This practice contributes to about 40% post-harvest losses of cashew

nuts. Immature nuts have high moisture content and are unfit for export. Inadequate drying and

improper storage, for example, the use of polythene bags instead of jute bags to store harvested

cashew nuts enhances the deterioration of stored kernels (Chemonics, 2002). Training farmers on

good cashew production practices right from the field to storage might help to alleviate defects in

nut quality due to these factors. In addition, government support for smallholder farmers to

improve their production would reduce the menace of harvesting immature nuts.

Due to poor peelability of cashew test a from the kernel, about 64% of the total labour for

processing 180 metric tonnes of raw nuts by a small-scale processing plant per month is

expended on peeling testa alone (Chemonics, 2002). This has brought significant losses to

processors and indirectly Nigerian Cashew farmers. While this problem explain for loses and

poor pricing of the Nigerian Cashew, it equally answers for its poor acceptability in the global

market. The possible cause either genetic or environmental needs to be investigated. Solution

through research would be most welcome as this would enhance the acceptability and

worthwhile pricing of Nigerian Cashew. It would also encourage small-scale cashew processors

who cannot afford high cost peeling machines. Probable research activities to solving this

problem may include: Exploration and collection of cashew genetic resources, evaluation for

peelability and trait-specific selection for onward breeding programme.

2.6 IMPLICATIONS OF CASHEW PRODUCTION ON FARMERS

As it may be noted from the literature reported in this review, cashew crop plays a significant

role in the economy of some emerging regions, with cashew kernel being considered a high-

value agricultural commodity. Interestingly, it shows an atypical trend, in that international

markets are expanding rather than contracting (Azam-Ali and Judge2001; Boillereauand

Adam2007; Harilalet al.2006). Such a pattern could be positively exploited by promoting the

sector within the frame-work of strategies that aim to reduce poverty, based on in-creasing and

diversifying production and export. This is particularly true in light of the fact that, apart from

few exceptions as Brazil, whose cashew industry is based on large-scale mechanized factories,

the vast majority of producers and processors worldwide are small or medium scale, with small-

holder farmers and processors playing a major role (Azam-Aliand Judge2001; Mole2000).

However, their production capacities, on which their livelihood closely depends, are severely

hindered by several constraints that, though context specific, are often common to many of them

regardless of their country. For example, the lack of strategic planning in the inception phase has

resulted in the development of scattered small-scale activities rather than integrated systems

(Fitzpatrick2011). Moreover, the lack of good planting material due to the absence of proper

breeding programs, coupled with poor knowledge of pest control, soil husbandry, and agronomic

practices, has widely compromised the production phase, resulting in generally poor yield. Such

issues, whose effects have been sometimes worsened by adverse weather conditions, have for

long not been compensated for by extension services, which have often been found to be in

efficient and responsible for inadequate farmer training (Nathanielsetal.2003). The scarcity of

investments in the cashew industry, especially in contexts considered unattractive by foreign

investors such as many African countries, has also prevented the sector from innovating at an

adequate rate to keep pace with fast-changing markets (Fitzpatrick2011). Recently, this trend has

been counteracted, as demonstrated by the growing interest of multinational corporations in

developing new entry markets, such as West Africa (Boillereau and Adam2007). However, the

lack of knowledge and support services has limited the positive impact of the introduction of
technologies in processing plants, especially in contexts where there is a scarcity of available

skilled labor, like East Africa (Fitzpatrick2011). This has resulted in the usage of obsolete plants,

often subject to water and power supply problems, significantly impacting both quantity and

quality of cashew products. The low quality of cashew raw nuts and kernels in turn negatively

affects farm gate prices and reduces the profitability of the activities conducted by producers and

processors. In the African framework, the above-mentioned constraints are further exacerbated

by inefficient distribution channels, resulting in high transport and packaging costs that, along

with the suboptimal sales and consumption of broken nuts, limit the internal demand of cashew

products (Boillereau and Adam 2007).

While the scenario of cashew producers is becoming more sophisticated with new actors coming

up and competing with each other in the south, market share has consolidated among a few

retailers and importers in the north. These retailers and importers can capture considerable value

by providing secondary stages of processing, such as roasting, salting, and flavor addition. The

location of value-addition and the buyer-driven nature of the cashew nut supply chain have

negative implications for the wages and working conditions of workers in developing countries.

This relatively small group of retailers and importers holds significant power in determining both

price and quality of cashew products. They also indirectly determine labor conditions for

suppliers and producers that in turn transfer the burden of competition to workers (Boillereau and

Adam2007). A survey conducted in India and Mozambique revealed the trade unions were weak

in promoting workers ‘rights and therefore depicted an imbalanced relationship between workers

and employers (Kanji2004). Moreover, the increased competition on the international markets,

leading to the liberalization of the cashew sector, has been found to push an increasing number

of employees into becoming informal workers with poor wages and health-threatening working
conditions. Such a trend makes the quantification of workers engaged in cashew industry

particularly difficult. This is due to the fact that, apart from employing informal laborers, small-

scale industries are frequently neither even registered nor surveyed. When data are available, a

clear trend emerges in the workforce composition. A notable share of the labor in the cashew

sector worldwide is made up of women, who undertake various tasks along the value chain

(Kanji2004). Quantifying women la-borers is a more difficult task than for men, as they usually

accept more insecure working conditions for lower wages. This is partly due to the more limited

choices they face and partly due to different societal expectations of what is accept-able for

women and men. In the late 1970s, women were reported to make up half the workforce in

Mozambique that, at the time, was one of the main cashew producers in the world (Azam-Ali

and Judge2001). Figures from India are even more explicative in this sense, as in the state of

Kerala, that has the largest processing capacity in the country women were found to be the 95 %

of the 500,000 workers surveyed in the 1990s(Nayar1995). Such data was later confirmed by

Kanji (2004) reporting about 400,000 women workers in the cashew industry in the same area.

Despite their relevance in the sector, women are often unprotected by labor legislation, result in

gin inequalities such as lower wages, exclusion from technology application, less bargaining

power, and worse work environments, sometimes to the point of affecting their reproductive

health (Kanji2004). However, small-scale projects relying on the cooperation of governments,

private sector, and nongovernmental organizations have had a positive impact on employment

and labor conditions, which highlights the need for joint actions to support smallholders and,

among them, the most vulnerable groups (Kanji2004).

2.7 USE OF CASHEW ON FAMER’S PRODUCTION

Cashew has for many years been used for food and income generation. The trees are usually

grown for their kernels which when roasted have a very pleasant taste. Deckers et al (2001) and

CTA (2007), reported that raw nuts which are much in demand in industrialized countries are

processed into kernels that constitute a valuable export product for confectionery. They are used

as an ingredient for making fruit paste, candied fruit, canned fruit, cashew apple, resins, jams and

jellies, chutney, fruit juice, alcohol and vinegar. Cashew kernels rank third after almonds and

hazelnuts in the international trade of tree nuts.

Wine and pulp are produced from cashew apple. Apple is eaten as a raw fruit or is fermented to

produce a delicious alcoholic drink. The pulp is the fibrous part obtained after extracting juice

from the apple and could be used as animal feed or dried and processed into diet fiber biscuit.

Another product of cashew is the Cashew Nutshell Liquid (CNSL). It is greatly valued in the

international market as a raw material for brake and clutch linings, paints, and vanishes. It is also

used in lacques, agglutinants, insecticides and fungicides (Deckers, et al 2001). Shomari and

Topper (2003) noted that cashew is considered one of the luxury nuts along macadamia and

pistachio.

It has been used for re-afforestation purposes (e.g. in Nigeria, Cote d’Ivoire, and Madagascar) to

combat soil erosion and reclaim marginal land. Cashew tree is found useful in making live fence,

shade trees, firewood and charcoal. From the bark extract, a black dye can be made that is used

locally for tattooing and tanning. Adam (2007) added that in Indian, a gum is obtained from the

trunk, which can be used as a substitute for gum Arabic.

In spite of the above farmers uses of cashew, there are twin issues of value addition in cashew

produce and lack of recognition of Nigeria as a producer and exporter of cashew kernel to the

international markets which pose serious challenge to its sustainability, income and job creation.

Most farmers lack knowledge in handling the crop for maximum yield (Crusoe, 2006). In many

cashew farms, a lot of the fleshy apple and some nuts waste away despite their potential farmers;

because many farmers do not have the capacity to adequately turn the produce into valuable

products for local and international consumption and marketing. The selling of raw nuts mainly

for export by farmers at giveaway prices could hinder its development. The export of non-value

added and low value added products may result in low foreign exchange earnings and loss of

employment. This situation could also hinder the achievement of a proposed long term goal by

Chemonics international incorporated prepared for USAID in Nigeria to transform Nigeria froma

low-priced commodity producer to a supplier and exporter of high quality cashew products

(Chemonics/USAID, 2002).

2.8 PESTS AND DISEASES OF CASHEW

On the field, production of cashew is mostly impaired by insect pest complexes (Hammed et al.,

2008). The Entomological unit of Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria has archived the collection

and identification of insect pests of cashew since 1971 (Asogwa et al., 2008).

The insect species have been implicated with economic losses estimated between 52 and 75% of

the production level (Chemonics, 2002).Analeptestrifasciata was reported to produce a

significant damage to cashewin Nigeria (Topper, 2002;;Asogwaetal., 2011) while low level of

Helopeltis incidences is recorded (Topper, 2002); although, they are the main insect pests of

cashew in East Africa and India (Topper,2002). A survey in Nigeria showed a wide spread of
Analeptestrifaciata infestation in almost all cashew producing states; making it an economic pest

(Asogwa et al., 2011). In the past, little or no importance was accorded to the insect (Asogwa et

al., 2011), but over time, there seemed to be a progress in the pest spread as cashew continued to

expand and increase. The life cycle of the insect starts with the brightly coloured adult male and

female “longicorn” beetles (black with 3 orange bands on wings). These feed by scrapping the

back of cashew stem causing a V-shaped groove which leads to eventual girdling and falling off

of the affected stem/branch and loss of all the fruit such branch may be carrying. Cashew yield

loss due to A. trifaciata infestation could be up to 54.8% (ERLS, 1988). The dead wood tissue so

formed provides a breeding site for the eggs laid by the adult female after mating. The eggs

mature to larvae which burrow the dead wood and develop through the pupal stage into adults.

Similarly, cashew production is seriously affected by three major diseases, of the disease

pathogens, Lasiodiplodiatheobromae is implicated with up to 70% reduction in nut yield, and

more than 50% death of vegetative shoot (Hammed et al., 2008).

Among control measures identified for keeping these insect pests and diseases below economic

threshold includes good farm sanitation, picking and burning of infected twigs, and chemical

spray. Frequent application of insecticides was recommended (Topper, 2002) for the control of

Analeptestrifasciata. The body chemical components or the hard cuticle of the insect may

however prevent prompt response to chemical treatment. Analeptestrifasciatahas been found

most responsive to chemical control at the time of the year when the body fat content is low,

Removal of alternative hosts (AdansoniadigitataandFicus mucosa) in addition to burning of

infected twigs may be necessary to effectively check the spread and damage of A. trifasciata on

cashew trees.
Use of botanicals has also been found effective in the control of some pests. Field application of

Pipperguineense as a spray at 5and 10% and combination of garlic (Allium sativum),

Pipperguineense, Ocimumgratissimum and Chromonaenaodorata at 5, 7.5and 10% have been

found to reduce incidence of inflorescence die-back disease (Lasiodiplodiatheobromae)

(Adejumo and Otunoye,2002; Adejumo, 2005). Furthermore, the use of resistant varieties of

Cashew seems a promising option for the control measure programmes. Screening of some

genotypes of cashew led to the identification of ten genotypes with relative tolerance to cashew

inflorescence blight disease in Nigeria (Adejumo, 2005).

2.9 CONSTRAINTS TO THE PRODUCTION OF CASHEW IN NIGERIA

There are some factors militating against rapid development of cashew production sector in

Nigeria (Hammed, and Adedeji, 2008; Azam-Ali, and .Judge, 2001). These include:

Perpetuation of Cashew landraces on Nigerian cashew plantations:

The acquisition of cashew nuts as planting materials from any source other than CRIN results,

among others, in the perpetuation of the old/unimproved stock. The ISO-6477 standard

introduced in 1988, to reconcile the Brazilian and Indian classifications, gave a high premium to

the W180 (jumbo) and W210 (large) grades Azam-Ali, and .Judge, (2001) Unfortunately, the

medium nut-size of cashew nuts that currently exists on many plantations in Nigeria, falls within

W320 and W280 categories, which attracts low pricing in the International market. The highly

priced Brazilian cashew biotypes (W180 and W210) are being given out to cashew farmers who

contacted CRIN for technical supports

Low funding for cashew research activities:

Timely availability of funds is the driving force of any research. In Nigeria, fund allocation from

federation account is the only source of research funds for cashew research programme. This

fund, if available on time, is extremely small compared to the volume of work on the crop

occasioned by its vast economic potentials. Besides, the fact that the cultivation of the crop cuts

across all agro-ecologies further testifies to fund requirements of the crop. Thus, there is need for

a national policy that will ensure consolidated funding for the research and development of

cashew in Nigeria

Entomological/Pathological problems:

In Nigeria, the production of cashew is impaired mostly by problems associated with its insect

pest complex. In the last twenty years, the insect pest complex of cashew increased year after

year and over 286 species have been reported so far However, only Analeptestrifasciata (stem

girdler),. Selenothripsrubrocinctus (red-banded thrips) and Pachnodacordata(fruit scrapper) have

been comprehensively studied while stem and root borer (Plocaecderusferrugineus L.) is being

exhaustively studied. These insect species have been implicated with economic losses estimated

between 52 and 75% of the production level Hammed, and Adedeji, (2008) similarly, cashew

production is seriously affected by three major diseases. These include floral shoot die-back

(caused by Lasiodiplodiatheobromae (Pat) Giffon and Maubl.), twigdie-back (caused byL.

theobromae) and root rot of cashew seedlings (caused byPythiumultimum, Trow.). Floral shoot

die-back reduces total nut yield by an improved average of 38-70%. Twig die-back cause’s more

than 50% death of vegetative shoot of cashew Hammed, and Adedeji, (2008) the loss due to root

rot of cashew seedlings was estimated at 10-15% in the nursery Hammed, and Adedeji, (2008).
Vast differences in cashew ecology:

Cashew ecology cuts across all agro-ecological zones of the country. Therefore, the coastal and

rainforest zones of the southern Nigeria characterized with the occasional rainstorm/rainfall

during the dry season, when the cashew is at peak fruiting period, affect the quality of the

maturing nuts. Nut-picking (harvesting method of cashew) especially by the unskilled casual

workers involves immature, maturing and immature nuts found on the ground. However, cashew

is faced with establishment problems in the savanna. The problems become intense northwards.

Burning or firing as a method of weed control especially in the savanna, is a serious threat to

both young and matured plantations of cashew. Live cashew trees are more inflammable than the

dead cashew trees. The caustic liquid, CNSL, is an inflammable liquid. The soils of each of these

agro-ecologies differ. Therefore, the sustainability of the cashew culture depends largely on soil

suitability and land capability. Thus, the differences in cashew ecology in Nigeria call for

different cultivation packages for different agro-ecologies.

Lack of awareness on the economic potential of cashew:

Cashew kernels are a high value luxury commodity with sales growing steadily at an annual rate

of 7.0%, with every expectation that the market will remain strong Azam-Ali, and Judge,

(2001).Besides, there is substantial potential to exploit cashew by-products, such as cashew

butter (from broken kernel) Cashew Nut Shell Liquid (CNSL) and Vitamin C-rich juice of

cashew apple among others. Therefore, on the market outlets for cashew had forced many

cashew nut processing factories out of operation in Nigeria

STRATEGIES FOR CASHEW PRODUCTION DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA

In order to astronomically develop the cashew production sub-sector in Nigeria, all stakeholders

must religiously work together and formulate developmental policies for cashew research and

development in Nigeria Daramola et al. (2005). Such policy may include the following-

Immediate and periodic broadening of Nigerian cashew gene-pools through the exploration

of the Brazilian heavier nut-size germplasms:

The nut-size of the Nigerian landraces of cashew is the same as those of India, Indonesia and

Vietnam cashew. The genetic base of the Brazilian cashew biotype (jumbo nut-size), in Nigeria

is very shallow. Therefore, further exploration of the Brazilian cashew biotype has become an

immediate necessity and a continual activity for the crop’s improvement programmes.

Ecological protection:

Strict legislation against burning is crop inevitable in this country in order to protect cashew

plantations from annual destruction through burning. Monitoring and enforcement of such

legislation should be vested on the State government of the cashew producing States.

Furthermore, cashew plantations should not be established at some close range to a timber

plantation. This is because firing as a maintenance operation in timber culture is a destructive

operation in cashew plantations

Immediate and periodic national cashew survey:

This becomes imperative in view of the fact that, Nigeria does not have a cashew map,

insect/disease map, the yield gradient with ecological differences, the yearly expansion of
cashew hectarage and the actual cashew hectarage of Nigeria among others. The availability of

these statistics would ensure the sustainable developmental plans for the crop in Nigeria.

Establishment of cashew seed garden centers at strategic places accessible to the farmers:

The farmers do not need to travel long distances for the acquisition of cashew planting

materials. The establishment of such seed garden centers will provide a drastic avenue for

eradicating the landraces of cashew from our farmers’ plots and restrict them only to the research

centers. More importantly, improved cashew varieties would be within the reach of these

farmers. Such varieties include the materials that attained anthesis at 18 months after

transplanting.

Constant awareness creation on economic potentials and the health benefits of cashew

product consumption:

It is worthy of note that cashew kernel is rich in unsaturated fatty acids with high protein and

low levels of saturated fats and soluble sugars. Higher levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids

which lower blood cholesterol is particularly of high nutritional significance Daramola et al.

(2005). Cashew has therefore, gained acceptability in the international markets where consumers

are more health-conscious. Promotion of jingles on radio and television including the print media

will further promote the awareness on the health benefits of cashew, thus strengthening the

domestic economy of the crop. For instance, the local consumption of cashew kernel, in India,

has increased from 13,000 tons in 1960-61 to 92,000 tons in 1996 (Hammed, and Adedeji, 2008).

Besides, all educational institutions (from elementary to tertiary) in cashew producing states may

be assisted to have “cashew week” at least once in a session. During the week, cashew harvests

made from their cashew plots should be processed and eaten by the school community. The said
school cashew plots should be established with the improved Brazilian cashew biotype (Jumbo

nut-size). This method would endear and inculcate the cultivation of cashew in the minds of the

youth at the appropriate level. Thus, alleviating unemployment and poverty in the land and

further strengthening the crop’s economy

Establishment of “Consolidated Cashew trust fund”:

This is to ensure constant and sustainable availability of fund for cashew research activities,

Availability of sufficient fund is the driving force of any research and development. The

government of the federation, the governments of the cashew producing states, CBN and NEPC

are to contribute into this trust fund. Others include the cashew nut exporters, who should be

made to contribute about 2.5% of the cost of every tonnage of cashew nuts being exported. The

processors may be exempted for now in order to further encourage local processing of the nuts

into kernel

Youth encouragement in Cashew-based agriculture:

Having caught them (youth) young in cashew-based agriculture, they need to be encouraged to

contribute meaningfully into the cashew Agribusiness. This can be achieved through the

provision of land and other farm inputs and supervision especially during the juvenile period of

the crop.

Periodic acquisition of modern research equipment/ materials and manpower:

This becomes imperative in order to have the expected development in cashew research and not

to be left out of the global research focus and direction. Besides, research institutes, especially,

CRIN, must be on dedicated power supply

Value addition:

The vast market potentials of the country should be fully explored for the development of

cashew sub-sector. Further encouragement of the local processing capacity and gradual

discouragement of exportation of raw cashew nuts are viable steps towards adding values to

Nigerian cashew. In India, the processing capacity of cashew nuts has increased rapidly more

than production. Thus, India imports raw nuts to the tune of over 203,000 tons (mainly from

Africa) in order to satisfy her processing capacity of 440,000 tons. Vietnam also has graduated

from exporter of raw nuts into importer of the commodity in order to make up the requirements

for her processing capacity

Maintenance of the organic nature of Nigerian cashew;

Monitoring of chemical inputs, (chemical fertilizer, insecticides, fungicides and herbicides) in

cashew cultivation is essential in order to guard against the contamination of the organic nature

of Nigerian cashew (which is currently a pride)

Constitution of Cashew development commission:

The constitution of the commission should include the presidency, the ministries of agriculture,

commerce and finance, all cashew producing states, Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN),

National Cashew Association of Nigeria (NCAN), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Nigeria

Export Promotion Council (NEPC), African Cashew Alliance (ACA) and other relevant

agencies. This commission is expected to further provide the technical and political supports for

the promotion of the Nigerian cashew at both national and international levels.
 CHAPTER THREE

METHODOLOGY

3.1 Study Area

The study was conducted in Kwara State, Nigeria. The state consists of sixteen (16) Local

Government Areas including ifelodun Local Government Area where the study was specifically

carried out being the area where the commercial farmers are situated. The state is located in the

Mid-north –western part of the country within latitude 7045’N-9030’N and longitude 2030’E-

6025’E. The state shares boundaries with Oyo, Osun and Ondo to the south, Kebbi and Niger to

the North, Kogi to the East and Republic of Benin to the West. The population of the state is put

at 2,371,089 and covers an estimated land area of 32,500km2out of which75.3% is cultivable and

found suitable for almost all forms of food crops (Omotesho et al.,2012, Bukola, 2008). The state

has two main climatic seasons, the dry and wet season. Annual rainfall ranges between 1000 to

1500mm while the average temperature lies between 30ºc and 35ºc. It also has an estimated

figure of 203,833 farm families with the majority living in rural areas. The State is divided into

four zones by the Kwara State Agricultural Development Project (KWADP) in consonance with

ecological characteristics, cultural practices and project’s administrative convenience. These are:

Baruteen and Kaima Local Government Areas (Zone A); Edu and Patigi Local Government

Areas( B); Asa, Ilorin East, Ilorin South, Ilorin West and Moro Local Government Areas(Zone

C); and Ekiti, Ifelodun, Irepodun, Offa, Oyun, Isin and Oke-Ero Local Government Areas (Zone

D).
Research Design

The research study assessed constraints faced by cashew farmers in Ifelodun Local Government

Area Kwara State. For the aim of this study, the survey research design was adopted. The study

used this type of design in order to conduct an in-depth research investigation on the population

being study and to analyze constraints faced by farmers. This design is appropriate because it

enabled the researcher to determine and evaluate constraint faced by cashew farmers (a case

study in Ifelodun Local Government Area Kwara State)

3.3 Population of the Study

The population for this study consisted of all cashew farmers in IFELODUN LOCAL

GOVERNMENT AREA KWARA STATE, NIGERIA.

3.4 Sampling procedure and Sample size

A sample is a manageable section of a population but elements of which have common

characteristics. Also, it refers to any portion of a population selected for the study on which

information needed. The study adopted a multistage sampling procedure. The first step was the

selection of the local government, Ifelodun Local Government Area, because of the intensity of

cashew farmer’s activities in the area. The second step was the three (3) random communities in

Ifelodun Local Government Area Which Include; Share, Omupo, and Ile ire. The third step was

the selection of 50 random cashew farmer’s in each community hence a total of 150 respondents

was used for this study.

3.5 Instrument for Data Collection

Research instruments are used to collect data from participants of the study. They include

questionnaire, interviews, observations, and experiments. The research instrument used in this

study was questionnaire. Questionnaire basically seeks the opinion of individuals in a sample or

a population on issues directly related to the objectives of the research study. The questionnaire

was distributed to the targeted population. The measurement that was used is the use of 5 Likert -

scale measurements ranging from strongly agree to strongly disagree to measure responses and

the responses was used for final analysis of the research work.

3.6 Validity of instrument

An instrument is said to be valid only when it measures what it measures what it purported to

measure, for the purpose of this study, content validity was employed. The content validity of the

questionnaire ensured by the researcher’s supervisor and other lecturers of the Department of

Agricultural extension and rural development, University of Ilorin. This was to ensure that the

questionnaire measures what it intends to measure

3.7 Reliability test

Reliability is the level of which we can trust the data, and is the degree to which an assessment

tool produces stable and consistent results.

3.8 Data analysis

After data collection, the data was purified and classified into organized tables according to the

study objectives. The data for this study was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential
statistics. Descriptive statistics such as frequency distribution means, percentage and bar chart

was used to analyze objective one. Objective two employed the use of percentage and frequency.

Objective 3 employed the use of descriptive statistics. Objective four was analyzed using 2—

point likert-type scale (1=YES; 2=N0, hypothesis was analyses using correlation analysis.

3.9 Measurement of variables

There are two types of variables that were measured in the study; they are independent and

dependent variables. The independent variables consists of the socio economic characteristics of

the cashew farmers which includes; age, gender ,marital status, years of experience in rice

farming activities etc.

Age: the age was measured in years and the respondent were asked to state their age in an open

ended format

Gender: the respondents were asked to select their sex category from male=1 female=2.

Marital Status: the respondents were asked to choose the status in which they belong to from

single=1, married=2, divorced=3, widowed=4.

Level of education: Respondents were asked to select their level of education from the

following classes, No formal education=1, Primary education=2, Secondary education=3,

Tertiary education=4.

Household size: The number of members within cashew entrepreneurs study area

Dependent variable
The dependent variable in this case was training needs and the constraints militating against the

effectiveness of cashew production in the study area.

 CHAPTER FOUR

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

This chapter presents the result of analysis, interpretations, and discussion of the data

collected based on the objectives and the hypotheses of the study. The analyses present

discussions on both descriptive and inferential statistical analysis. A total of one hundred and

fifty (150) copies of questionnaire were administered which were duly filled and returned. This

connotes that the responses received were factual in accordance to the sampled population. The

results of the data collected, analyzed and interpreted under this section are presented under the

following headings;

1. Socio-economic characteristics of cashew farmers

2. Sources of information available for cashew production

3. Constraints faced by cashew farmers

4. Identify numbers of extension farmers

5. Results of tested hypotheses

4.1 Socio-economic Characteristics of Rice Farmers

This section presents results and discussion on the socio-economic characteristics of the

respondents. The results are presented in Table 1.

Table 1: Distribution of Respondents by Selected Socio-economic Characteristics

Variables Frequency Percentages

COMMUNITY
Share 50 33.3
Omupo 50 33.3
Ile ire 50 33.3
AGE (YEARS)
Less than 30 34 22.7
31-40 49 32.7
41-50 26 17.3
50 and above 41 27.3
SEX
Male 125 83.3
Female 25 16.7
MARITAL STATUS
Married 64 42.7
Single 47 31.3
Divorced 7 4.7
Separated 32 21.3
RELIGION
Christianity 25 16.7
Islam 125 83.3
YEARS OF EDUCATION
No formal 29 19.3
Primary 26 17.3
Secondary 85 56.7
Tertiary 10 6.7
HOUSEHOLD SIZE
1-2 87 58.0
3-4 28 18.7
5-6 18 12.0
7-8 9 6.0
9 and above 8 5.3
ANNUAL INCOME
10,000-19,000 9 6.0
20,000-29,000 59 39.3
30,000-39,000 33 22.0
40,000 and above 49 32.7
FARM SIZE
less than 1 hactares 34 22.7
1-2 hactares 78 52.0
3-4 hactares 30 20.0
4 and above 8 5.3
MODE OF LAND OWNERSHIP
Owned 78 52.0
Rented 46 30.7
Freehold 9 6.0
Lease 17 11.3
Source: Survey, 2020. M=Mean

COMMUNITY

The result from Table 1 shows that 33.3% of the respondents are from share, 33.3% are from

Omupo and 33.3% are from Ile ire. This implies that each of the communities were giving equal

questionnaire (150) to fill

Age (Years)
The result from Table 1 shows that only 22.7% of the respondents were less than 30years, 32.7%

are between 31-40 years, 17.3% are between 41-50 years while 27.3% are 50 years and above.

This result shows that majority of the respondents are between 31-40 years and are not young but

still in their productive years and have the needed energy to farm. This finding is in line with that

of Nwalieji and Uzuegbunam (2012) who reported that majority of rice farmers were in their

middle, active, and productive ages and hence can engage efficiently in rice production.

Sex

The result from Table 1 reveals that the 83.3% of the total respondent are male while 16.7% are

female. This implies that majority of the respondents are male due to the strenuous nature of

farming

Marital status

From table 1, it can deducted that 42.7% are married, 31.3% are single, 4.1 are divorced while

21.3% are separated, this implies that majority of the respondent in this study are married, the

high number of married people could make more hands available to produce the needed labour

on the farm thus increasing production. This finding agrees with Akinbile (2007) who reported

that married people account for the majority of the rice farmers’ population.

RELIGION

From the above table it can be showed that 16.7% are Christian while 83.3% are Islam, this

implies that majority of the respondent that participated in this study are Islam.

Educational qualification
Result from table 1 shows that only 19.3% of the respondent has no formal education, 17.3% has

primary school education, 56.7% has secondary education while only 6.7% has tertiary

education, this implies that majority of the respondent have secondary education and This

indicates that majority of the respondents could read and write and this could help them to

quickly adopt necessary changes. Negash (2007) reported that education plays an important role

in the adoption of new technologies by farmers.

Household Size

As shown in Table 1, 58.0% of the respondent have 1-2 household size, 18.7% respondent have

3-4 household size, 12.0% of the respondent have 5-6 household while 6.3% of the respondent

have 7-8 household and 5.3% have 9 and above household size, this implies that majority of the

farmers house hold is between 1-2 household size. This result agrees with the findings of Onu

(2005) who reported that small family size could be as a result of the nature of the rural farmers.

He further opined that this could be linked to the fact that most rural farmers look at small

household size as a good and economical way of maximizing farm returns and income.

Annual Income (₦)

Table 1 shows that the annual income of 6.0% of the respondent was between ₦10,000-₦19,000,

39.3% of the respondent annual income was ₦20,000-₦29,000, 22.0% of the respondent are

between ₦30,000-₦39,000 while 32.7% of the respondent annual income was ₦40,000 and

above, the implies that majority of the respondent annual income was ₦20,000-₦29,000. With

recent threats of climate change and the rapid advancement in technology, more farmers require

capital investment in agriculture and human capacity development to at least continue to make

their living out of farming This indicates that the higher the income of the farmers, the higher the
productivity growth in agriculture which can only be successful through the development and

dissemination of improved agricultural practices. This indicates that the higher the income of the

farmers, the higher the productivity growth in agriculture which can only be successful through

the development and dissemination of improved agricultural practices (Asfaw et al., 2012).

Size of Farm

Table 1 reveals that only 22.7% of the respondent has less than 1 hectare, 52.0% has 1-2

hectares, 20.0% has 3-4 hectares, while 5.3% has 4 and above hectares, this implies that majority

of the cashew farmers have 1-2 hectares farm size. This result aligns with Saka and Lawal (2009)

who affirmed that the majority of small- scale farmers in Nigeria were categorized as having

0.10-3.00 hectares of farm holdings.

Land Ownership

The result presented in Table 1 reveals that almost all the respondent (52.0%) owned their

farmland 30.7% rented their farm land 6.0% freehold their farm land while 11.3% lease there

farm land, this implies that majority of the respondent owned there farm land. This result agrees

with Kolawole et al., (2012) who reported that lands were owned by farmers are hardly if at all

sold as a result of the sentimental value attached to such lands.

4.1.2 Sources of information available for cashew production

This section presents results and discussion on the Sources of information available for cashew

production of the respondents. The results are presented as follows;

4.1.2.1 Radio Sources of information available for cashew production

Source: Survey, 2020.

The results presented in the above bar chat shows the Sources of information available for

cashew production; it shows that 87.3% Sources of information available for cashew production

is radio while 12.7% Sources of information available for cashew production is not radio. the

implication of the result show that majority of the respondent source of information is radio.

Behrens and Evans (1984), confirm this by saying that extension workers use radio as a useful

tool to communicate at the local level.

4.1.2.2 Printed Media Sources of information available for cashew production

Source: Survey, 2020.

Results presented in the above bar chat shows Printed media as the Sources of information

available for cashew production, it shows that 94.7% Sources of information available for
cashew production is printed media while 5.3% Sources of information available for cashew

production is not printed media. the implication of the result show that majority of the

respondent agreed that their source of information is printed media. This study is in line with

Uwagboe et al. (2006) stated that print media communication is regarded to be an effective and

sufficient method of bringing about change especially among the rural poor.

4.1.2.3 Billboard Sources of information available for cashew production

Source: Survey, 2020.

Results presented in the above bar chat shows Billboard as the Sources of information available

for cashew production, it shows that 100% of the respondent agreed that belabored is there

Sources of information that are available for cashew production. Adebayo and Adesope (2007)

and Oladeji (2011) reported similar findings that rural farmers prefer traditional mass media

especially radio, newspaper and Billboard as their major sources of agricultural information.
4.1.2.4 Extension agent as Sources of information available for cashew production

Source: Survey, 2020.

Results presented in the above bar chat shows Extension Agents as the Sources of information

available for cashew production; it shows that 94.7% of the respondent Sources of information

available for cashew production is Extension Agents while 5.3% Sources of information

available for cashew production is not Extension Agents. The implication of the result show that

majority of the respondent agreed that their source of information is Extension Agents.

Koyenikan (2011) surveyed the role of extension services in information seeking behaviour of

rural cashew farmers in Delta state of Nigeria. These, studies reviewed show that cashew farmers

use mass extension agents as their major source of cashew production.

4.1.2.5 Family/friends/neighbors Sources of information available for cashew production

Source: Survey, 2020.

Results presented in the above bar chat shows Family/friends/neighbors as the Sources of

information available for cashew production; it shows that 100% of the respondent agreed that

their Sources of information available for cashew production is Family/friends/neighbors. The

implication of the result show that majority of the respondent agreed that their source of

information is Family/friends/neighbors. Masawe, Kapinga (2010) They reported that farmers

rely on neighbours, friends and relatives in obtaining information on cashew production.

4.1.2.6 Cooperative society Sources of information available for cashew production

Source: Survey, 2020.

Results presented in the above bar chat shows Cooperative society as the Sources of information

available for cashew production, it shows that 88.0% of the respondent Sources of information

available for cashew production is Cooperative society while 12.0% Sources of information

available for cashew production is not Cooperative society. The implication of the result show

that majority of the respondent agreed that their source of information is Cooperative society.

Ajayi (2003) on the analysis of Cooperative society use for agricultural information by farmers

in Nigeria showed that use of Cooperative society was the most popular even though majority of

the farmers prefer the use of television.

4.1.2.7 Television as Sources of information available for cashew production

Source: Survey, 2020.

Results presented in the above bar chat shows Television as the Sources of information available

for cashew production, it shows that 86.7% of the respondent Sources of information available

for cashew production is Television while 13.3% Sources of information available for cashew

production is not Television. The implication of the result show that majority of the respondent

agreed that their source of information is Television. This finding is in line with the work of
Oladeji (2011), who reported that agricultural books, television, bulk SMS and farm leaflets were

forms/channels mostly used by cashew farmers in Nigeria to sort for information.

4.1.2.8 Internet Sources of information available for cashew production

Source: Survey, 2020.

Results presented in the above bar chat shows Internet as the Sources of information available

for cashew production, it shows that 79.3% of the respondent Sources of information available

for cashew production is Internet while 20.7% Sources of information available for cashew

production is not Internet. The implication of the result show that majority of the respondent

agreed that their source of information is Internet. Oladeji (2011) who reported that Internet were

channels and source of information mostly used by cashew farmers in Nigeria.

4.1.3 Constraints faced by cashew farmers

This section presents the result of Constraints faced by cashew farmers in the study area. The

results are summarized in Table 2 as follows;

Table 2: Constraints faced by cashew farmers

Statements SA A N D SD RM
F (%) F (%) F (%) F (%) F (%)
Low funding for cashew 120(80.0) 28(18.7) 0 2(1.3) 0 Strongly
research activities agree
Inadequate farmer 106(70.7) 42(28.0) 0 1(0.7%) 1(0.7) Strongly
training agree
Inefficient distribution 111(74.0) 30(20.0) 9(6.0) 0 0 Strongly
channels agree
Lack of knowledge and 110(73.3) 40(26.7) 0 0 0 Strongly
support services agree
Scarcity of investments in 110(73.3) 30(20.0) 10(6.7) 0 0 Strongly
the cashew industry agree
Vast differences in cashew 76(50.7) 52(34.7) 18(12.0) 4(2.7) 0 Strongly
ecology agree
Absence of proper 77(51.3) 63(42.0) 0 0 10(6.7) Strongly
breeding programs agree
Poor knowledge of pest 92(61.3) 47(31.3) 10(6.7) 1(0.7) 0 Strongly
control agree
Lack of awareness on the 54(36.0) 88(58.7) 8(5.3) 0 0 Agree
economic potential of
cashew
Entomological/Pathologic 38(25.3) 41(27.3) 43(28.7) 25(16.7) 3(2.0) Natural
al problems
Insufficient information 112(74.7) 21(14.0) 16(10.7) 1(0.7) 0 Strongly
agree
Poor funding of the 70(46.7) 42(28.0) 30(20.0) 0 8(5.3) Strongly
program agree
Low literacy level 63(42.0) 56(37.3) 23(15.3) 0 8(5.3) Strongly
agree
Source: Field Survey, 2020. SA = Strongly Agreed, A = Agreed, N = Natural, D=Disagree,

SD= Strongly Disagreed, RM=Remark

Results presented in Table 2 shows that respondent strongly agreed 120(80%) that Low

funding for cashew research activities is a Constraints faced by cashew farmers, 106(70.7%)

strongly agreed that Inadequate farmer training is a Constraints faced by cashew farmers,

111(74.0%) strongly agreed that Inefficient distribution channels is a Constraints faced by

cashew farmers, 110(73.3%) strongly agreed that Lack of knowledge and support services is a

Constraints faced by cashew farmers, 110(73.3%) strongly agreed that Scarcity of investments in

the cashew industry is a Constraints faced by cashew farmers, 76(50.7%) strongly agreed that

Vast differences in cashew ecology is a Constraints faced by cashew farmers, 77(51.3%)

strongly agreed that Absence of proper breeding programs is a Constraints faced by cashew

farmers, 92(61.3%) strongly agreed that Poor knowledge of pest control is a Constraints faced by

cashew farmers, 112(74.7%) strongly agreed that Insufficient information is a Constraints faced

by cashew farmers, 70(46.7%) strongly agreed that Poor funding of the program is a Constraints

faced by cashew farmers, 63(42.0%) strongly agreed that Low literacy level is a Constraints

faced by cashew farmers, while 88(58.7%) agreed that Lack of awareness on the economic

potential of cashew is a Constraints faced by cashew farmers and 43(28.7%) are natural that

Entomological/Pathological problems is a Constraints faced by cashew farmers. Omonona and

Babatunde (2012), they opined that lack of current market information, trading skills, Lack of

awareness on the economic potential of cashew and uncertain policy environment affects market

access in developing countries. Oladojo, Adeokun and Fapojuwo (2008) also posited that

constraints such as, high cost of information, Insufficient information , high level of poverty

among farmers, Poor knowledge of pest control lack of skill, readability problem among farmers,

Inadequate farmer training and lack of alternative source of power to electricity, all affect the use

of mass media as source of agricultural information. Oladejo, (2015) agrees that market

information was a serious problem facing farmers in marketing cashew nuts in Oyo State

4.1.4 Numbers of Extension contacts

This section presents the result of Numbers of Extension contacts in the study area. The results

are summarized in Table 5 as follows;

Table 3: Numbers of Extension contacts

STATEMENT YES F (%) NO F (%) REMARK

1-5 extension contacts 83(55.3%) 67(44.7%) YES
5-10 extension contacts 17(11.3%) 133(87.7%) NO
10-15 extension contacts 8(5.3%) 142(94.7%) NO
15-20 extension contacts 42(28.0%) 108(72.0%) NO
20 and above extension contacts (%) 150(100%) NO
Source: Field Survey, 2020. RM=Remark

Results presented in Table 3 shows that respondent has 1-5 Numbers of Extension contacts while

none of the respondent has above 5-10 Numbers of Extension contacts, none of the respondent

has above 10-15 Numbers of Extension contacts, none of the respondent has above 15-20

Numbers of Extension contacts, none of the respondent has above 20 and above Numbers of

Extension contacts, this implies that the respondent has only 1-5 Numbers of Extension contacts.

Extension contact plays a pivotal role in the provision of different agricultural information

sources, and adoption of technologies, thereby enhances the utilization of the information. Low

number of visits can be attributed to shortage of frontline extension personnel in various villages

in Nigeria. Olaniyi, Adesiyan and Ayoade (2008) reported similar findings that inadequate

extension contacts as one of the major constraints faced by poultry farmers in Nigeria

4.2 TEST OF HYPOTHESES

H01: There is no significant relationship between selected socio-economic characteristics of

cashew farmers and the constraints faced in cashew production.

Table 4: Correlation between selected socio-economic characteristics and the constraints faced in

cashew production for significance.

Variables Coefficient p-value Remark

Age .165* 0.043 Significant
Gender -.183* 0.025 Significant
Religion .061 0.457 Not significant
Marital status .168* 0.023 Significant
Community .028 0.735 Not significant
Annual Income .271** 0.001 Significant
Farm size .202** 0.007 Significant
Educational qualification -.256** 0.001 Significant
Household size -.248** 0.001 Significant
Mode of land ownership .138* 0.046 Significant
Source: Statistical analysis, 2021

* Correlation is significant at the 0.05 level (2-tailed).

** Correlation significant at the 0.01 level (2-tailed).
Results of the correlation analysis in the table above shows age (r=.165, p=.034), Marital status

(r= .168, p=.023), Annual income (r=.271, p=.001), Farm size (r=.202, p=.007) and Mode of

land ownership (r=.138, p=.046) were positively and significantly correlated to the perceived

constraints faced by the cashew farmers in the study area. This findings corroborates that of

Oladejo, (2015) which agrees that Annual income and farm size was a serious problem facing

farmers in production of cashew in Oyo State. It means that the aforementioned identified

variables were important points to note in solving cashew constraints and promotes sustainable

cashew production.

Educational qualifications (r=-.256, p=.001), Household size (r=-.248, p=.001) and Gender

(r=-.183, p=.025) shows a negative significant correlation with the perceived constraints faces by

the cashew farmers. This could be because an increase in educational level opens a farmer to

technology as well as other problem solving resources. Increase household size should decrease

the constraints as there would be more skills, strategies and manpower needed to adjust to the

constraints. The community (r=.028, p=.735) where the respondents resides as well as the

Religion (r=.061, p=.457) of the respondents revealed no significant correlation with the

perceived constraints faced by the cashew farmers.

In view of this fact, the null hypothesis H0, is rejected and the alternative H1, accepted since

there is significant relationship between socio-economic characteristic of cassava farmers and the

constraints faced by farmers.

CHAPTER FIVE

SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

This section present the summary of major findings, conclusion of the study as well as

recommendation made from the study. The section concluded with the recommendation for

further studies

Summary

This presents the summary of the findings according to the objectives of the study

5.1.1 Summary of Socio-economic Characteristics of cashew Farmers

The finding from the result shows that that each of the communities were giving equal

questionnaire (150) to fill, that majority of the respondents are between 31-40 years (32.7%) and

are not young but still in their productive years and have the needed energy to farm, majority of
the respondents are male 83.3%(Mean=1.17) due to the strenuous nature of farming, majority of

the respondent in this study are married 42.7%, the high number of married people could make

more hands available to produce the needed labour on the farm thus increasing production, of the

respondent that participated in this study are Islam (83.3%), majority of the respondents has

tertiary education 40.7% and could read and write and this could help them to quickly adopt

necessary changes, majority of the farmers house hold is between 1-2 household size 18.7%,

majority of the respondent annual income was ₦20,000-₦29,000 (39.3%), majority of the

cashew farmers have 1-2 hectares farm size (52.0% ) and majority of the respondent owned there

farm land (52.0%).

5.1.2 Summary of Sources of information available for cashew production

The respondents’ Sources of information available for cashew production, It show that

the respondents source of information is radio (87.3%), billboard (100%), Extension agent

(94.7%), Family/friends/neighbors (100%), Printed media (94.7%), Cooperative society (88.0%),

Television (86.7%) and Internet (79.3%).

5.1.3 Summary of Constraints faced by cashew farmers

Constraints faced by cashew farmers in the study area show that the respondents strongly

agreed that Low funding (80.0%), Inadequate farmer training (70.7%), Inefficient distribution

channels (74.0%), Lack of knowledge and support services (73.3%), Scarcity of investments

(73.3%), Vast differences in cashew ecology (50.7%), Absence of proper breeding programs

(51.3%), Poor knowledge of pest control (61.3%), Insufficient information (74.7%), Poor funding

of the program (46.7%), Low literacy level (42.0%), Lack of awareness (58.7%) while others are

natural that Entomological/Pathological problems is a Constraints faced by cashew farmers

5.1.4 Summary of Numbers of Extension contacts

The findings on respondent Numbers of Extension contacts shows that none of the

respondent has above 10-15, 15-20 and above 20 Extension contacts respondent only has 1-5

(55.3%) Numbers of Extension contacts

5.1.4 Summary of Test of Hypotheses

Socio-economic characteristics (Sex, Annual income) had a significant relationship on

constraints faced in cashew production (Vast differences in cashew ecology, Inadequate farmer

training, Low funding for cashew research activities, Lack of knowledge and support services) in

the study area. Therefore, it is concluded that there is a significant relationship between selected

socio-economic characteristics of cashew farmers and the constraints faced in cashew

production.

5.2 Conclusion

The study concluded that the Sources of information available for cashew production, is

radio, billboard, Extension agent, Family/friends/neighbors, Cooperative society, Television,

Internet and Constraints faced by cashew farmers in the study area are Low funding, Inadequate

farmer training, Inefficient distribution channels, Lack of knowledge and support services,

Scarcity of investments, Vast differences in cashew ecology, Absence of proper breeding

programs, Poor knowledge of pest control, Insufficient information, Poor funding of the

program, Low literacy level, Lack of awareness and cashew farmers only has 5-10 Numbers of

Extension contacts

5.3 Recommendations
Based on the findings and conclusion of the study, the following recommendations were made;

1. Extension agents in conjunction with local rulers, ministries and funding organizations

should create an avenue for awareness for various cashew farmers. This can be done

effectively by the use of group teachings, Training, seminars and other teaching aids.

2. For easy access and effective utilization of sources of information available for cashew

farmers for cashew production, there is need for establishment of information centers by

Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) in all rural communities in Nigeria. Such

information centers could provide the cashew farmers information on different methods

of accessibility of cashew production in a format that would be comprehensible to them,

taking into cognizance the prevailing high illiteracy rate, cultural norms and limited

technology among them, which will in turn increase their level of production and output

3. National cashew Research Institute should take into consideration some Constraints faced

by cashew farmers, Such constrain include Low funding, Inadequate farmer training,

Inefficient distribution channels, Lack of knowledge and support services, Scarcity of

investments in other for farmers to increase the productivity and increase the income
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 UNIVERSITY OF ILORIN

FACULTY OF AGRICULTURE

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT

QUESTIONNAIRE ON CONSTRAINTS FACED BY CASHEW FARMER’S IN

IFELODUN LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA KWARA STATE, NIGERIA

Dear respondents,

My name is Adesina Taiwo, I am a student of the above named institution conducting a research
on the topic; “Constraints Faced by Cashew Farmer’s in Ifelodun Local Government Area Kwara
State, Nigeria”. Your assistance is highly needed to complete the questionnaire. Please answer
each question honestly and accurately. Your participation in this exercise is crucial to the success
of this study.
Information given will be treated with utmost confidentiality and for research only.

Thanks in anticipation of your cooperation

Yours sincerely,

ADESINA TAIWO

QUESTIONNAIRE

SECTION A: SOCIO-ECONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS OF BENEFICIARIES

Kindly tick()in the appropriate response applicable to you

1. Community/ Town/ Village:

2. Local Government Area:
3. Age: …………………years
4. Gender: Male ( ) Female ( )
5. Marital status: (a) Married ( ), (b) Single ( ), (c) Divorced ( ) (d) separated ( )
6. Religion: (a) Islam ( ), (b) Christianity ( ), (c) African Traditional Religion
7. Educational Qualification: (a) No formal education ( ) (b) Adult Education ( ) (c)
primary ( ) (d) secondary ( ) (e) tertiary ( )
8. Household Size: (a) 1-2 ( ), (b) 3-4 ( ), (c) 5-6 ( ), (d) 7-8 ( ), (e) 9 and above
9. Annual income: (a) Below 10,000 ( ), (b) 10,000-19,000 ( ), (c) 20,000-29,000 ( ), (d)
30,000-39,000 ( ), (e) above 40,000 ( )
10. What is your total farm size? …………………………………………
11. Mode of Land Ownership: Owned ( ), Rented ( ), Freehold ( ) lease ( )

SECTION B: Sources of information available for cashew production

Put a tick () in the appropriate column to represent the Sources of information available for
cashew production.

Statement Yes No
Radio
Printed media
Billboard
Extension Agents
Family/friends/neighbors
Cooperative society
Television
Family/friends/neighbors
Internet
SECTION C:Constraints faced by cashew farmers

Tick () the appropriate column that represent the Constraints faced by cashew farmers
SA= Strongly Agreed, A= agreed, N= Natural, D=Disagree, SD= Strongly Disagreed

Statement SA A N D SD
Low funding for cashew research activities
Inadequate farmer training
Inefficient distribution channels
Lack of knowledge and support services
Scarcity of investments in the cashew industry
Vast differences in cashew ecology
Absence of proper breeding programs
Poor knowledge of pest control
Lack of awareness on the economic potential of cashew
Entomological/Pathological problems
Insufficient information
Poor funding of the program
Low literacy level

Others (specify); ……………………………………………….

SECTION C: Numbers of Extension contacts

Tick () the appropriate column that represent the Constraints faced by cashew farmers

Statement YES NO
1-5 extension contacts
5-10 extension contacts
10-15 extension contacts
15-20 extension contacts
20 and above extension contacts