PROCESSING DYNAMICS AND CHALLENGES AMONG CASSAVA VALUE CHAIN ACTORS IN DELTA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Abstract

This study examined the processing dynamics and challenges faced by cassava value chain actors in Delta State, Nigeria.A multistage sampling technique was employed to select 216 cassava processors, and primary data were collected using a structured questionnaire.The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, and means) and multiple regression analysis.The findings revealed that the majority of the respondents were female (93.63%) and married (60.38%), with an average household size of four members, a mean processing experience of six years, and a mean annual income of ₦491,094.The principal sources of processing capital were thrift/savings groups (81.13%) and personal savings (62.26%).The dominant cassava products processed were garri (92.45%) and cassava paste (fufu/akpu) (90.58%).The most critical constraints affecting cassava processing were high transportation costs (mean = 2.42) and unstable product prices (mean = 2.40).Multiple regression analysis further revealed that ownership of processing equipment, sex, and membership in a processors' association significantly influenced processors' income (p < 0.05).The study concludes that cassava processing in Delta State is predominantly undertaken by middle-aged women but is constrained by inadequate processing facilities, poor access to affordable finance, and marketing challenges, which collectively limit productivity and profitability.To enhance the performance and sustainability of the cassava processing sector, financial institutions should provide accessible and affordable credit facilities, while government and relevant stakeholders should facilitate access to subsidized processing equipment and invest in rural infrastructure, particularly road networks, to reduce processing and transportation costs and improve market competitiveness.