Economic Analysis of Traditional Cassava Processing and Market Performance in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State, Southeast Nigeria.

Abstract

This study conducted economic analysis of traditional cassava processing and market performance in Udi local government area of Enugu State, Southeast Nigeria. The study used multi-Stage sampling technique to select 60 cassava processors. Primary data were collected using self-administered structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, marketing efficiency and multiple regression analysis. The results showed that the average years of cassava processing experience was 16.67 years in the study area. Also, years of processing experience was positive and significantly related to income at P> 0.05. The results suggest that processors with more years of processing experience are more likely to earn more profit in the enterprise. The results further showed that the higher marketing efficiency for the Abacha cassava processing of 245.9% was recorded in Obiagu market in the study area. Furthermore, the major constraints militating against cassava processing include poor road network, poor storage and poor infrastructural facilities in the study area. The study recommends that adequate infrastructure particularly storage facilities and good road network should be provided to encourage more involvement in the processing enterprise in the study area.