Determinants of off-farm livelihood diversification from cocoa farmers in Ghana

Theophilus Larbi

Bachelor's thesis

Abstract:

This study examines the determinants of off-farm livelihood diversification from cocoa farmers in Ghana. The study's objective is to identify the factors that influence cocoa farmers' decisions to engage in off-farm activities and the impact of these activities on their household income. Diversification strategies included intercropping, crop and livestock diversification, and off-farm activities related to agriculture. Data were collected through interviews with 50 cocoa farmers in the Ahafo Ano District Council in Ghana, and the data were analysed using descriptive statistics, regression analysis, Mean Rank, Mann-Whitney U test, and the Wilcoxon test. The findings suggest that age, farming experience, and land ownership are significant factors that influence cocoa farmers' decision to engage in off-farm activities. The study also found that off-farm activities positively impact household income, which suggests that off-farm livelihood diversification can be an effective strategy for improving the economic well-being of cocoa farmers in Ghana. The study recommends the provision of financial credits, farm input subsidies, and farmers' training to enhance diversification strategies in Ghana's cocoa sector.

Keywords

Off-farm job, Income, Diversification, Cocoa, Livelihoods, smallholder, Ghana

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 14. 4. 2023

Thesis defence

• Supervisor: Ing. Ing. William Nkomoki, Ph.D.

Czech University of Life Sciences Prague

Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences

Bachelor programme:
International Cooperation in Agricultural and Rural Development