Analysis of Adoption and Impacts of Improved Maize Varieties in Eastern Zambia. (February 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Khonje, Makaiko; Manda, Julius; Alene, Arega D.; Kassie, Menale
• Is Part Of: World development. Volume 66(2015)
• Page Start: 695
• Page End: 706
• Publication Date: 2015-02
• Subjects: adoption -- Africa -- endogenous switching regression -- propensity score matching -- welfare -- Zambia; Economic history -- 1990- -- Periodicals; Economic assistance -- Developing countries -- Periodicals; 330.9
• DOI: 10.1016/j.worlddev.2014.09.008
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0305-750X

Abstract

Highlights: We examine determinants and evaluate the impact of technology adoption. We used propensity score matching and endogenous switching regression models. Information access, social capital, education, and assets limit adoption. Technology adoption increased income, expenditure, food security, and poverty reduction. Summary: This paper analyzes the adoption and welfare impacts of improved maize varieties in eastern Zambia using data obtained from a sample of over 800 farm households. Using both propensity score matching and endogenous switching regression models, the paper shows that adoption of improved maize leads to significant gains in crop incomes, consumption expenditure, and food security. Results further show that improved maize varieties have significant poverty-reducing impacts in eastern Zambia. The paper concludes with implications for policies to promote adoption and impacts of modern varieties in Zambia.