EFFECTS OF CLIMATE-SMART AGRICULTURAL (CSA) PRACTICES ADOPTION ON THE PRODUCTIVITY OF CASSAVA FARMERS IN ODUKPANI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, CROSS RIVER STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examined the effects of Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) practices on the productivity of cassava farmers in Odukpani Local Government Area, Cross River State, Nigeria. Using a multi-stage sampling technique, 120 cassava farmers were surveyed with a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, a CSA adoption index, logistic regression, and multiple regression models were used for analysis. Commonly adopted CSA practices included improved cassava varieties, crop rotation and cover cropping, while soil, water and pest management showed moderate adoption. Logistic regression indicated that CSA awareness/exposure (B = 4.558; Exp(B) ≈ 95; p < 0.001) and farm income significantly influenced adoption (p = 0.050), while education had a positive but marginal effect (Exp(B) = 1.12; p = 0.079). The double-log regression model indicated that CSA adoption significantly increased cassava yield (β = 0.283, p = 0.004), with farm size also showing a strong positive effect (β = 1.103, p < 0.001). The study concludes that CSA adoption enhances cassava productivity and resilience but is constrained by limited access to information, finance, and extension services. It recommends strengthening extension services, farmer training, improving credit and input access, and promoting inclusive CSA policies to enhance adoption and sustainable agricultural productivity in the region. (Word count:205)