A Socioeconomic Study of Transition Zone Yam Farmers Addressing Constraints and Exploring Opportunities for Integrating Pigeonpea into Yam Cropping Systems

Abstract

Cultivation of yams by rural households contributes to food supply and income generation. Notwithstanding the importance of this crop, yam production has been stagnating, threatening rural livelihoods and food security. Contrary to traditional yam systems in Ghana, an alternative system that integrates pigeonpea and yam is being proposed to mitigate constraints in existing yam production system through replenishing soil fertility, the provision of stakes for staking, and providing nutritious grains to farmers. The purpose of this study was to explore farmers’ constraints and determine farmers’ knowledge of the pigeonpea–yam cropping system. The investigation was conducted using structured questionnaires on a sample consisting of 150 yam farmers from three major yam-producing districts of Ghana. Results revealed that access to capital, mechanization, and poor road network were among the main constraints that militated yam production. A majority (68%) farmers are also still using shifting cultivation in search of fertile lands for yam production. The study found that farmers had poor knowledge of the pigeonpea–yam cropping system and the benefits and uses of pigeonpea. Given the potential of the pigeonpea–yam intercropping system in addressing soil fertility and providing a readily available source of stakes, it would be a viable option for smallholder farmers to increase and sustain production.