Input Use Efficiency in Farm-Level Cassava Processing into Garri in Ivo LGA, of Ebonyi State, Nigeria

Abstract

In 2007, the input use efficiency in farm level cassava processing into garri in Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Nigeria, was carried out. A random sampling technique was employed to select eighty cassava processors into garri. Scheduled interview was used to obtain cross sectional data. The quantity of cassava tubers processed by each garri producer, the inputs used and quantity of garri produced were extrapolated in metric tonnage for easy of analysis. Instrument of data descriptive statistical tools, production functional models, input use efficiency ratios and profitability ratios were used in data analysis. The result of the analysis shows that the average age of the cassava processors into garri was 52.10. Also 85% of the cassava processors are married and the average household size was 8. The average number of years in formal school was 10 and they had cassava farming occupation. The result further revealed that the farmers had 2.2 as their average farm size and 27.4 as the average garri production years of experience. From the survey, identifiable key resources include farm size, labour and other inputs as well as depreciated assets. The result indicated that the identified key resources (farm size, labour, other inputs, and depreciated assets) were inefficiently utilized by the garri producers, the enterprise however was profitable. The profit level could be increased if inefficiency in resource use is reduced through such measures as use of improved cassava varieties, improved processing equipment and facilities, and adult education and skill acquisition programmes.