The paper provides a historical analysis of Sweet Potato production in Vandeikya Local Government Area of Benue State as well as methods, varieties, challenges and potential values of the crop, its impact on the economy. The historical methodology along with multidisciplinary approach was adopted and qualitative data analysis employing primary and secondary sources provided narrative of the social, economic, and environmental factors that have shaped Sweet Potato cultivation and distribution in the area. The study has shown that the use of traditional farming implements is prevalent in the area and this has limited the quality and quantity of yield. The paper also concluded that Sweet Potato is a source of food security and income to many farmers in the area among other impacts.
Challenges faced by producers include pest and disease management, land insufficiency, and lack of access to credit and markets. One of the key contributions of the paper to the body of knowledge is that, it highlights some of the major challenges affecting Sweet Potato production in the area.
Recommendations are for collaborative effort by the government, farmers and stakeholders to take measures to address the challenges ensuring maximal impact of the crop on the region.
| DOWNLOAD COMPLETE ARTICLE HERE (CLICK) |