DETERMINANTS OF ADOPTION LEVELS OF COCOA CERTIFICATION PROGRAMME IN SOUTHWEST, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examines the determinants of adoption levels of cocoa certification programs among smallholder farmers in Southwest Nigeria. Cross-sectional data were used and collected with the aid of a well-designed questionnaire. Using a multi-stage sampling technique, 396 respondents were selected across two states renowned for their cocoa production capacity. Data were analyzed using an ordered probit regression model to assess the influence of socio-economic, demographic, and institutional factors on adoption levels. The study found that certification adopters were predominantly male (79.5%) and aged 31-60 years (76.5%), with higher education levels and moderate household sizes (4-9 members). Adopters had more farming experience and medium-sized farms (4-6 hectares). Key factors influencing the level of adoption included age, household size, gender, education, farm size, farming experience, financial risk, credit constraints, and access to extension services. Age exhibited a negative and significant effect, indicating that younger farmers are more likely to adopt certification programs. Household size, gender, non-cocoa income, collateral, and access to extension services positively influenced adoption levels. Conversely, financial risk and farm size negatively affected adoption levels, highlighting the challenges faced by farmers with larger holdings and those exposed to higher financial risks. Despite certification offering potential benefits such as improved market access and premium pricing, the adoption rate remains low due to financial and institutional barriers. The study recommends targeted interventions, including subsidies for certification costs, enhanced access to credit, strengthened extension services, and gender-inclusive policies, to promote broader adoption.