ISSN 2756-3448
Global Journal of Food and Agricultural Sciences Vol. 10 (1), pp. 001-010, January, 2023. © International Scholars Journals
Full Length Research Paper
Factors Constraining Rural Youths Involvement in Cassava Production in Onu - Imo Local Government Area of Imo State, Nigeria
1Chikezie, N.P., 2Chikaire, J., 3Osuagwu, C.O.,3Ihenacho, R.A., 2Ejiogu-Okereke, N., 3Oguegbuchulam, M. N. and 4Obi, K.U.
1Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Sociology, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State,
2Department of Agricultural Extension, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State;
3Department of Agricultural Management and Extension Technology, Imo State Polytechnic, Umuagwo, Ohaji, Imo State,
4Department of Agriculture, Isu-Njaba High School, Imo State, Nigeria.
Accepted 20 September, 2022
Abstract
The study entitled factors constraining rural youths involvement in cassava production in Onu- Imo Area of Imo State was conducted to find out problems rural youth who engage in cassava production faced despite the fact that governments have put in place programmes to boast agricultural production. One hundred and twenty youth were randomly selected from a list of 1200 youths obtained from the youth leaders of the communities visited. Questionnaire was used to elicit information and the data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistical tools such as percentages, mean, and frequency counts presented in tabular forms. Majority (60%) were in their prime age of 21-30 years. These engage in cassava production to make money, get out poverty, and ensure there is food all the time and because of the demand for cassava. They clear bushes, get involved in weeding, planting, harvesting, fertilizer application, and other activities. But they are not without problems in their activities. They face the problems of inadequate land for production, capital, storage facilities, working implements/equipments, pests and diseases attack, low returns, peoples perception of agriculture, and so on. These problems could be solved if facilities are provided, loans and credits given, training of farmers by extension agents and enabling law on land access to enterprising farmers.
Keywords: Cassava, poverty, food security, youth, agriculture.