Impact of Improved Variety Adoption on Rice Productivity and Farmers’ Income in Cameroon: Application of Propensity Score Matching and Endogenous Switching Regression

초록

The development and adoption of different agricultural technologies account for the global increase in food production, particularly in the rice sector. In Cameroon, several improved rice varieties have been introduced in different production basins, significantly contributing to the steady increase in local production. The present study evaluated the impacts of adoption of certain improved varieties in the western highland agroecological zones of the North West and West Regions. Propensity score matching complemented by endogenous switching regression modeling was applied to ensure unbiased estimation. The results from both econometric approaches were consistent and indicated a positive and significant increase in both the productivity of rice and income of farmers adopting them. Overall, adopting improved varieties accounted for a 24.4% increase in rice productivity and 50.4% increase in farmers’ income. Notably, non-adopters are expected to witness significant increases in productivity and income should they decide to adopt improved varieties. Therefore, the government and development stakeholders are encouraged to consider expanding and promoting the adoption of improved rice varieties across key production zones to enhance productivity and boost farmers’ income.

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