Abstract:
Income maximization from
cashew products and proper utilization of
resources has significantly evolved in
Amoma, as a result of cashew diversification
with food crops. The aim of the study was to
assess the perceptions of farmers on
integrating cashew with food crops. The
study aimed to identify the type of food
crops intercropped with cashew, as well as
reasons and its associated challenges. A total
of 83 respondents were purposively sampled
from four communities (Asesase,
Kukuroase, Tutuoase and Afapemu). The
results indicated that all farmers had
knowledge on food crops integration with
cashew. Amongst the food crops cultivated
with cashew include yam, maize, cassava
and groundnut. Reasons stated for
integration of food crops include weed
control, subsistence use and also financial
safety nets. Farmers’ major challenge was
financial and also weeds control on their
farm. The study concluded that yam was the
commonest intercrop of cashew followed
maize. Key challenges encountered by
farmers were weed invasion and inadequate
disposable cash for maintenance practices,
such pruning and weeding. In pursuit of
achieving the Sustainable Development
Goals 1 (No Poverty) and 2 (Zero Hunger),
the study recommends that farmers be
trained on proper food crop integration
methods at Amoma to boost yield, financial
stability and enhance living conditions.
