Farmers’ Improved Breadfruit Awareness and Adoption Status in Southeast Nigeria

Abstract

This study analysed improved breadfruit (Treculia africana) awareness and adoption situation in Southeast Nigeria. It examined farmers’ budded breadfruit awareness and adoption status and their willingness to adopt the innovation. The study also identified the reasons why farmers do not adopt the crop’s new varieties. Two hundred and sixty respondents (260) spread in thirteen (13) communities of Anambra and Enugu States were randomly selected and interviewed using survey questionnaire. Data collected were verified in an in-depth interview (II) and two Focus group discussions (FGD). Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics. The results show that: adoption status (20.47%) of its improved varieties was low while majority of the farmers were willing to adopt (88%). The study also found the major reasons why the farmers have not adopted the crop’s improved varieties. The result concludes that farmers are greatly in need of improved breadfruit varieties and that the crop requires favourable policy interventions. The paper recommends policy interventions for the crop’s conservation, awareness creation and provision of its improved varieties to farmers at affordable prices.