Quality of Oil Palm Production Small-Scale Farmers (A Case Study of Asuom Community in the Eastern Region)

Abstract

A number of improved oil palm production practices have been introduced to assist smallscale oil palm farmers increase yield and improve on their product This study was conducted to examine the quality of oil palm production among small-scale farmers in Asuom community in Kwaebibirem District of the Eastern Region of Ghana. In all, 5 oil palm farmers were selected using purposive sampling and interviewed using unstructured questionnaires. Respondents dutifully availed themselves to be interviewed. The survey was to; ascertain framers knowledge on modern oil palm production methods; examine the communication channel between oil palm farmers and extension support services and; to investigate the oil palm production process and their effect on perceived quality. Results revealed farmers’ who do not apply fertilizer recorded 100%, due to their organic framing practice. Also, 100% of farmers admitted palm fruits are processed/steamed with the locally manufactured Kramer. Furtherance to that, farmers who ensure best management practices on the farm recorded 100%. However, 80% of respondents actively engage the services of extension officers. It is recommended that for palm fruits to be processed without storing them for a number of days which results in fatty acid, a contributing factor to less quality of products, franers should be educated on the improved cooked stove which has enough capacity to process palm fruits within the shortest possible hour and adapt the use. Since, framers do not apply fertilizer, the constant use of empty shells known as “bonkete” will help improve yields. Additionally, it is recommended that extension services should cover more farmers who should be encouraged to adopt improved oil palm production farming practices and therefore improve on their livelihood assets. Keywords: Oil palm, Adoption, Livelihood Assets.