Resource-use Efficiency in Cashew Production in Wenchi Municipality, Ghana

Abstract

The study considered the determinants of cashew production with special reference to cashew production in Wenchi Municipality of Brong-Ahafo Region of Ghana. Data collection was through well structured questionnaire administered on 140 respondents selected through random sampling technique. The methods of analysis used were descriptive statistics and production function analysis using the Ordinary Least Square (OLS) criterion. Results showed that majority of the farmers were ageing and there was high level of illiteracy as about 61.4% of total respondents had no formal education. Results further showed that farm size, capital, fertilizer and pesticides are positively related to cashew output while labour is inversely related. Also, the farmers were inefficient in the use of resources. Land, fertilizer and pesticide were underutilized while labour and capital were over utilized. Farmers should be encouraged to increase the use of land, fertilizers and pesticides so as to increase productivity.