Factors limiting the yam minisett technique adoption: A review

The yam minisett technique was developed to overcome the scarcity of seed yams, and has been introduced to farmers more than any other scientifically improved yam propagation method. However, the adoption rate of this technique has not significantly improved over the years. This paper presents an overview of the factors contributing to the low adoption rate of the technique since its deployment in Nigeria. Three main classes of factors influencing the adoption of the yam minisett technology are presented; informational factors, technical factors and economic factors. Among the informational factors, low rate of extension contact coupled with low membership of social groups has negative impacts on the level of awareness of the technology. Issues relating to technical and economic limitations are the major challenges faced by the minisett technique adopters. Among these, the low survival and sprouting rate of minisetts, high labour costs and low level of capital are of utmost importance.