CASHEW FARMING AND HOUSEHOLD POVERTY ALLEVIATION IN OKE- OGUN REGION, OYO STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study explored cashew farming and its capability to eradicate poverty among households in Oke Ogun Region. Data for this study were obtained from both primary and secondary sources. Primary data were collected via questionnaires, oral interview and group discussion. Secondary data were gathered from various textbooks, journals and as well as some pieces of relevant information were downloaded from the internet. These data were analysed using table of frequencies and percentages. The study revealed that the households level of awareness about cashew farming is on the high side and acted as additional source of income apart from arable crops farming being embarked upon by the residents. Cashew farming system was also noted to have encouraged social interaction between the farmers and the buyers from various places. Many of the households have even acquired land and become owners of properties. It was evident that cashew farming system contributed immensely to poverty alleviation through increasing job creation by the prosperous cashew farmers and buyers from different locations. This innovative and entrepreneurship idea encouraged a better livelihood among the dwellers. It was therefore suggested that government at all levels should pump money into cashew farming and encourage training programmes that could engage people, especially the youths for more job creation and socio- economic development in Nigeria.