DRIVERS OF YOUTH IN COCOA VALUE CHAIN ACTIVITIES IN GHANA

Abstract

Purpose – Cocoa is regarded as a brown-golden crop, but its value chain activities are dominated by the elderly. Hence, focussing attention on the young generation of farmers is the surest way to reverse this trend and secure the future of the cocoa industry. This paper, therefore explores factors influencing youth participation in cocoa value chain activities in Ghana. Design/methodology/approach – Primary data were collected using a multistage sampling technique. The authors used a semi-structured questionnaire in collecting data via interviews. Through the theory of utility maximization, a multivariate probit (MVP) model was estimated to identify factors influencing youth participation in cocoa value chain activities in Ghana. Findings – The author found that some of the value chain activities are complementary, while others are substitutes. Participation in cocoa value chain activities is influenced by access to land, participation in training programmes in cocoa production, membership of Next Generation Cocoa Youth Programme (MASO), access to agricultural credit and other demographic characteristics. Research limitations/implications – Relevant information and youth-targeted projects enhance their participation in value chain activities. Originality/value – This paper is one of the few studies that empirically analyses drivers of youth participation in cocoa value chain activities in Africa.