Abstract

A key policy instrument in the cocoa transformation agenda is to provide subsidized inputs for farmers to replace old grooves to increase cocoa production in Nigeria. The study examined the role of cocoa marketing cooperatives in enhancing the incomes of its member patrons in Osun State under the cocoa renaissance policy. Multi stage sampling method was used to select 100 respondents from four cocoa produce marketing unions in the State. Data obtained were analysed with descriptive statistics, budgetary analysis and the multiple regression technique. The study revealed that the average age of the respondents was 64.4 years and only 16% of the cocoa farms were developed after the commencement of the renaissance policy. The farmers operated an average of 5.4 ha farm sizes while inputs supplied respondents through cooperative societies were much cheaper compared to what obtained in the open market. The gross margin to enterprise was N387, 639 while the net income was N345, 282. The regression analyses revealed that while family size, age, level of education, farm size and cooperative experience were significant determinants of output, family size, farm size, cooperative experience and amount of cocoa marketed through cooperative societies were significant determinants of income realized in the cocoa enterprises. The study concluded that greater efforts should be put in place to attract younger and educated farmers to achieve policy objectives.

Key words: Renaissance, transformation agenda, marketing cooperatives, subsidize,  agrochemicals, fertilizer, seedlings.