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AKSU Journal of Agricultural Economics, Extension and Rural Development

ISSN(Online): 2736-0040    ISSN(Print): 2695-1975

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MARKETING OF GongronemaLatifolium(UTASI) IN AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA


Author:  Patrick, Inimfon Vincent

Abstract
Most green leafy vegetables have attracted global interest in recent years because of increasing recognition of their contribution to household income, food security, and medicinal properties. Gongronema latifolium (Utazi) is a green leafy vegetable used traditionally in the treatment of non- communicable diseases like malaria and diabetes which constitute major health problem in Nigeria. The high demand of this crop species continues to increase especially in places far away from where it is produced. The marketing of G. latifolium is very vital in bridging the gap between its demand and supply in order to sustain and enhance its continuous production. However, information on the activities of those involved in the marketing of G. latifolium is poorly documented in the study area, hence the need for this study. Using the primary data obtained from 90 random selected G. latifolium marketers from six markets. This study examined G. latifolium marketing in Akwa Ibom State. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics involving the use of means, percentages and likert type rating scale. The results showed that the marketers were dominated by young, married females with a mean marketing experience of five years and the mean household size of 6 persons. Three major marketing channels were identified. The weekly marketing margin for wholesalers was N130 while that of the retailers wasN 50. Lack of storage facilities (3.13), lack of finance (3.79), low prices (3.88), high transportation/ bad road (2.66), poor market infrastructure (2.93) and lack of market information, were adjudged major constraints to G. latifolium marketing in the study area. This study recommends that awareness programme on the medicinal value of Gongronema latifolium should be carried out in the study area. Also, there should be capacity building, technical and financial support to marketers through the provision of credit at less stringent conditions.