Regenerative agricultural practices among maize farmers in Ghana: adoption levels, socio-demographic determinants, and extension service access

Abstract

Declining soil fertility, land degradation, climate variability, and low maize productivity continue to threaten the sustainability of smallholder maize production and household food security in Ghana. Regenerative agricultural practices (RAPs) have the potential to address these challenges, yet evidence on their adoption remains limited. This study assessed the level of RAP adoption among maize farmers in the Offinso North Municipality of Ghana and identified the factors influencing adoption. A cross-sectional survey design was employed. Primary data were collected from 385 maize farmers selected through a multistage sampling technique using a questionnaire-based survey. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the Mann–Whitney U -test, Pearson correlation, point-biserial correlation, and ordinal logistic regression. The results showed that over 70% of the farmers had not reached a high level of adoption of RAPs. Farmers with access to extension services adopted significantly more RAPs than those without access ( U = 6,727; p < 0.001). Household size, age, sex, farming experience, labor source, land tenure, maize specialization, and access to extension services significantly influenced the adoption of RAPs. Policy interventions need to focus on improving extension systems, tenure security and labor constraints to promote adoption. These support SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 15 (Life on Land). The study contributes to the literature by advancing an adoption-intensity perspective from a developing country.