Food Security and Agricultural Systems Abstracts

Opoku-Debrah, Kwesi. (1994). Local knowledge of farmers in Ghana: Implications for extension and
          sustainable development programs. (Doctoral dissertation, Cornell University).

Abstract:  Food insecurity and environmental degradation are two major problems in the Greater Afram Plains (GAP) of Ghana. The fragile agricultural and environmental resources are deteriorating despite farmers' best efforts using local farming knowledge. Continuing population growth and scarcity of virgin land are major factors. This study was therefore undertaken to elicit and document local knowledge (LK) of farmers in the GAP area. The goal was to identify appropriate farming systems which can promote agricultural and environmental sustainability and, at the same time, be acceptable to farmers in the area. A major question that faces concerned development practitioners and researchers in the area is: What is the nature of relevant LK regarding agriculture and resource conservation practices that can support sustainable development? A participatory research approach was utilized incorporating a qualitative method of inquiry. Dimensional, purposively-selected sampling was used to select respondents from different agro-ecological zones and ethnic groupings in the area. Audio and video-taped interviews plus field observations were used to collect data. Inductive analysis developed by Patton (1990), and the constant comparative method developed by Glaser and Strauss (1967) were used in the analysis and interpretation of findings. Selected areas in the Brong-Ahafo and Greater Accra Regions were added to the area of study as comparison. The conclusions of the study confirm that significant local knowledge (LK) of farmers is extensive and significant in the GAP and the other areas of study. The local knowledge that was documented (a) is worth knowing, especially by outsiders, (b) has limitations, (c) can be elicited and documented with qualitative methods, (d) can lead to greater productivity and status of farmers if recognized and appreciated, and (e) can be combined with external knowledge (EK) to promote sustainable development. Results of the study can assist development practitioners and researchers in understanding and incorporating local knowledge of farmers in designing agricultural and natural resource programs. In addition, the research data have provided content for community-based, problem-posing mode of education of subsistence farmers.