EFFECT OF GLOBAL ALLIANCE FOR IMPROVED NUTRITION (GAIN) TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER ON NUTRITIONAL STATUS OF SWEET POTATOES FARMERS IN OYO STATE NIGERIA

Abstract

The integration of new technologies by GAIN (Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition) on sweet potatoes in Nigeria is cardinal to boost the bioavailability of micronutrients, increase crop yields, promote sustainable agriculture practices, ultimately improving the nutritional status and livelihoods of farmers and their families. This study evaluates the effect of the GAIN technology transfer initiatives on the nutritional status of sweet potato farmers in Oyo State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 234 farmers from the catchment areas of Ido, Iseyin, and Oyo West Local Government Areas. Data were collected through structured interviews and analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation. Results indicated that 71.8% of farmers were male, with a mean age of 41.5 years. Most respondents (87.2%) were married, 53.8% had at least seven years of formal education, and sweet potato farm sizes averaged 1.7 hectares. Access to extension services was high (92.3%), with frequent interactions (85.9%). Pearson’s correlation revealed significant relationships between household size (r = 0.727*, p = 0.000), frequency of contact with extension agents (r = 0.727*, p = 0.000), and nutritional status of respondents. The study concluded that while GAIN interventions have improved production and nutrition, challenges such as high input costs and market constraints persist. The study recommended that additional agronomic practices addressing pest infestations on potato tubers should be promoted to improve post-harvest management and storage facilities.