Analysis of Technical Efficiency of Pepper Production Among Farmers Under Tropical Conditions

Inefficient resource use in production of pepper (Capsicum spp.) prevents farmers from realizing optimum returns from production; efficient resource use leads to desirable outcomes. The efficiency of resource use of pepper production in Kano State, Nigeria, was studied. Sixty farmers from three local government areas were selected. A questionnaire was used to obtain information on socioeconomic characteristics and other relevant variables. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and stochastic frontier production. Seed, hired labor, and fertilizer significantly and positively affected pepper output. Significant determinants of grower technical efficiency were negatively affected by household size and positively affected by farming experience. Problems affecting pepper production were inadequate access to inputs (50%), low price of pepper (33.3%), pests and diseases (15%), and inadequate capital access (1.7%). Use of good quality seed at recommended rates and fertile soil are required to facilitate ...