ABSRACT

The study focused on the socio-economic determinant of profitability in cassava processing into garri in Umuahia south Local Government Area. The objectives of the study were to examine the socio economic characteristics of the respondents in the study area, identity various factors which affect the profit level of cassava products, ascertain the inputs and returns of the business, ascertain the constraints encountered in cassava processing, among others. Data were collected with the use of structured questionnaire using oral interviews schedule and observations. The respondents were randomly selected from four different autonomous communities and one hundred and sixty copies questionnaires were distributed respectively. Simple descriptive statistical tools such as percentage, frequency, tables, mean and multiple regression analysis were used to determine the factor that affected the output of level garri produced in the study area. The double log was chosen as the lead question based on a high R2value, number of significant variables on the appropriateness of the apron expectations. The result showed that sex, educational level and household size had a direct relationship with quantity of garri processed and was significant at 5% level. Age had a negative relationship with the quantity of garri processed and was significant at 5% level. Years of experience had a positive relationship with quantity of garri processed and was highly significant at 1% level. These are in agreement with apriori expectations. The result calls for policies by government by encouraging the young and youthful by cassava processing into garri. There is also need for free education as vvellas encouragement of experience processors to remain in processing.