Farmers’ Perception and Profitability of Pasture Establishment: Evidence from Ashanti Region, Ghana

This study, conducted in the Agogo Traditional Area of the Ashanti region of Ghana, where there are numerous conflicts between crop and animal farmers due to insufficient pasture for livestock, especially during the dry seasons, has yielded positive findings. The study used cross-sectional data from 150 farmers selected via a multi-stage sampling technique. inancial viability indicators such as Net Present Value (NPV), Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR), Internal Rate of Return (IRR), and perception index based on a five-point Likert scale were used. The establishment of pasture for small ruminant production was positive. The study found the pasture business as a viable concept with a BCR of 1.18, a positive NPV of GH₵3,160, an IRR of 40.1%, and a payback period of 2.61 years. Farmers’ positive perception of pasture establishment for small ruminant production was a significant finding. The SWOT analysis identified the prospects and potential challenges of the concept as follows: availability of land, support to the government policy of establishing ‘fodder banks’ for sustainable land use, low technical know-how, and land tenure issues, among others. The study recommends the establishment of pasture as a venture since it is financially viable and has the potency to significantly reduce farmer-herder conflicts, instilling hope in the audience about the positive impact of the study s recommendations. Concerned institutions should also empower farmers through technical education on pasture establishment.