IIARD International Institute of Academic Research and Development

RESEARCH JOURNAL OF MASS COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (RJMCIT )

E-ISSN 2545-529X
P-ISSN 2695-2475
VOL. 10 NO. 5 2024
DOI: 10.56201/rjmcit.v10.no5.2024.pg71.84

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Knowledge, Attitudes and Practice (Kap) Analysis of Cassava Chain Optimization Among Medium-Scale Farmers in Rivers State

OLUWATOBI, Ajoke Oyedele, IHEJIRIKA Walter Chikwendu (Ph.D) & NWACHUKWU, Fautinus Ginikanwa

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Abstract

This study examined the knowledge, attitudes and practice (KAP) analysis of cassava chain optimization among medium-scale farmers in Rivers State. The theoretical framework adopted in the study was the diffusion of innovation theory. The research design for this study adopted a qualitative method, specifically utilizing email interviews to gather in-depth information from participants. The population for this study consists of medium-scale cassava farmers in Rivers State, Nigeria, who are involved in both cassava farming and processing activities, which stood at 257. A sample size of 10 medium-scale cassava farmers was selected to provide a manageable yet diverse pool of participants, offering insights into the varying degrees of knowledge and attitude toward modern farming techniques. The sampling technique employed was purposive sampling, where farmers who have been involved in cassava farming for at least five years and have a production capacity that qualifies them as medium-scale are chosen. Data collection was conducted through semi-structured email interviews. For data analysis, thematic analysis was employed to identify patterns and themes from the farmers’ responses. The qualitative data were coded and categorized based on recurring themes, such as barriers to adoption, knowledge gaps, and current practices. The findings revealed that the medium-scale cassava farmers in Rivers State possess moderate knowledge of cassava chain optimization, with a strong understanding of traditional farming techniques but limited awareness of advanced processing, storage, and value addition practices, largely due to inadequate access to training and modern agricultural resources. Based on the findings of the study established that while medium-scale cassava farmers in Rivers State have a basic understanding of cassava chain optimization, there are significant gaps in their knowledge of advanced techniques that could improve their overa

keywords:

Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice, Cassava, Optimization, medium-Scale Farmers

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