Public Perception and Willingness to Pay for Progari in the Bono and Greater Accra Regions of Ghana
Isaac Baidoo *
Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC), P.O. Box LG 80 Kwabenya, Accra, Ghana.
Leticia Amoakoah Twum
Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC), P.O. Box LG 80 Kwabenya, Accra, Ghana.
Stephen Opoku-Mensah
Department of Agropreneurship, Kumasi Technical University, P.O. Box 854, Kumasi, Ghana.
Kingsley Odum Sam
Animal Research Institute Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Achimota, Accra, Ghana.
Mawumefa Akusika Diaba
Radiological and Medical Sciences Research Institute, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, Ghana.
Edward Christian Brown-Appiah
Radiological and Medical Sciences Research Institute, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, Ghana.
Yaa Pokuaa Akomea
Radiological and Medical Sciences Research Institute, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, Ghana.
Bernard Tawiah Odai
Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC), P.O. Box LG 80 Kwabenya, Accra, Ghana.
Kwamina Banson Ewur
Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC), P.O. Box LG 80 Kwabenya, Accra, Ghana.
Eunice Adoma
Genspark, United State of America.
Fidelis Ocloo
Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC), P.O. Box LG 80 Kwabenya, Accra, Ghana.
Michael Yao Osae
Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC), P.O. Box LG 80 Kwabenya, Accra, Ghana.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Cassava is one of the most important staple crops in the tropics, ranking just behind rice and maize as a major source of calories. Its processed products are rich in carbohydrates, with gari being one of the most popular due to its extended shelf life. proGARI, a scientifically fortified version of gari, was developed under hygienic conditions at the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) to provide enhanced nutritional benefits. To assess consumer perception and willingness to pay for proGARI, a comprehensive survey was conducted in the Bono and Greater Accra Regions using structured questionnaires. The results revealed that nearly 70% of respondents expressed a willingness to purchase proGARI, but suggested improvements in the product's color to increase its visual appeal and marketability. Based on these findings, it is recommended to enhance proGARI’s color, implement targeted marketing campaigns highlighting its nutritional value and hygienic production, and expand consumer awareness through education programs. Additionally, offering diverse packaging options, exploring broader regional markets, continuously improving the product based on consumer feedback, and collaborating with retailers to enhance distribution channels are essential strategies to boost proGARI’s market presence and consumer demand.
Keywords: Cassava, Manihot esculenta, Progari, public perception, nutritional value, Ghana