ADOPTION OF IMPROVED SHEA BUTTER PROCESSING TECHNOLOGY IN GHANA

Abstract

This paper examines socio-economic factors that influence the adoption of improved methods of shea butter processing technology in the Northern Region of Ghana. Data were obtained from 300 women shea butter processors comprising of full adopters, partial adopters and non-adopters. The conclusion is that education, experience, age, size of capital, credit and legal status of a business are factors that influence the adoption of improved methods of processing shea butter in Ghana. It is recommended that shea butter processors should be trained on the use of the improved equipment to enable them adopt the new technology so as to increase production and hence improve upon their livelihoods. There is also the need to encourage the registration of shea butter business enterprises in order to enable them enjoy the services of Business Development Service providers.