Effects of the Psaltry Cassava Out-grower Scheme in Enhancing Smallholder Productivity in Oke-Ogun Area of Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study assessed the effects of Psaltry cassava Out-grower scheme in enhancing smallholder productivity in Oke-Ogun area of Oyo State. Pre- and post-intervention combined with treatment and control group designs were used. Data were collected from 232 Out-grower and 49 non- Out-grower farmers using interview schedules. Data were analysed using percentages, t-test and regression analysis. Assured markets (90.5%) and training on post-harvest handling of crops (69.9%) were the most common supports received from Psaltry. Long bureaucracy involved in documentation ((Formula presented)) was the most severe constraint faced in the scheme. Total cassava harvested and productivity among Out-growers increased from 30,950.89±31,133.48kg to 106,116.88±96,926.01kg and 5,649.2±3835.3kg/Acre to 9,143.6±8799.1 kg/Acre before and after participating in Psaltry scheme, respectively. A significant difference existed between the productivity of Out-growers and non- Out-growers (t=7.256; p≤0.05). Membership of group (β=0.319) and length of involvement in the Psaltry scheme (β=0.157) positively and significantly influenced Out-growers’ cassava productivity. The Psaltry Out-grower scheme had stimulated beneficiary’s smallholder farmers towards higher productivity. A scale-up of the Psaltry model has prospects for transforming smallholder farmers to commercial producers.