Perceptions of Rural Smallholder Farmers on Modern Warehouses and Factors Influencing Choice for Maize Storage: Evidence from Karaga District, Ghana.

Modern warehouse storage systems represent a viable approach to reducing post-harvest losses, especially in rural Ghana, where smallholder agriculture predominates. This study examines rural smallholder farmers’ perceptions of the efficiency and affordability of modern warehouses, as well as the factors influencing their preference for maize storage, drawing on evidence from the Karaga District of Northern Ghana. Primary data were collected from a randomly sampled 400 smallholder maize farmers through surveys and focus group discussion. Data analysis employed descriptive statistics and a binary logistic regression model. Findings reveal that farmers generally expressed slightly positive perceptions of modern warehouse storage systems, with an overall perception index of 3.25. Efficiency perception index averaged 3.33, whiles the affordability index was 3.18. Highlighting the efficiency level and cost effectiveness perceived by smallholder farmers regarding modern warehouses. However, physical access to warehouse facilities remains a barrier for some farmers, particularly those in remote communities. The overall risk perception index was 3.08, suggesting a neutral stance on the risks associated with modern warehouse storage systems. Rodent attacks and inadequate documentation emerged as the most significant risk factors. Empirical analysis identified gender, years of formal education, means of transport, income, and access to credit as significant determinants of farmers’ decisions to utilize modern warehouses for maize storage. The study recommends upgrading existing district warehouses to improve efficiency and constructing additional community warehouses to enhance access and affordability. Additionally, strengthening extension delivery services is advised to increase farmers' awareness of the benefits of modern warehouse facilities.