Assessment of the Mechanization of Cassava Processing in Kwara State, Nigeria

This study was conducted in Kwara State Nigeria, to assess the level of mechanization of cassava processing. Data was collected using multi-stage sampling technique randomly selecting one hundred and twenty (120) processing centres from two ADP agricultural zones in Kwara State. A structured interview schedule was used as an instrument to elicit information on types and number of processing machines available to processors, gender of operators, source of power and type of prime mover, mode of operation and constraints to mechanization of cassava processing. The data collected was analyzed using simple descriptive statistics like mean, percentages and cross tabulations. Chi-square (X²) analysis was used to test the independence of machine operators against sex (gender). The major constraints to mechanization of cassava processing were identified, rated on a 4 points Likert-Type scale and ranked to determine their severity. The results showed that the level of mechanization of cassava processing in Kwara State is generally low, with the most commonly available processing equipment as the peeling tool (common knife), the grater and local frying pans. Over 70% of the processing equipment are manually operated, while electricity accounted for only about 0.5%.  The chi-square test for the processing equipment versus the sex of the operator revealed that gender (sex) is dependent on processing machine at 1% level of significance.  The ‘very severe’ constraints to mechanization of cassava processing are lack of credit, scarcity of spare parts and lack of electricity, while Poor quality of  fabrication materials and Inappropriate processing equipment are considered ‘Not severe’. The study recommended appropriate government policies aimed at reducing interest rates, encouraging research and development and provision of massive rural infrastructures.