Micro-level welfare effects of integrated soil fertility management in northern Ghana

Abstract

Integrated Soil Fertility Management (ISFM) is promoted as a sustainable approach to enhance farm productivity and ensure a reliable food supply. This study examines the association between ISFM, maize yield, income, total asset value, and food security using a quasi-experimental approach, drawing on data from 966 farm households in Ghana. The results show that ISFM adoption increases crop yield by 878 kg/ha, income by $453, and total asset value by $765. Regarding food intake, ISFM adoption boosts the consumption of calories, proteins, and fats during food-scarce periods by 2,406 kcal/day, 52 kg/day, and 90 kg/day, respectively. Consistent with extensive margin findings, the intensity of ISFM adoption is positively correlated with yield, income, total asset value, and food security. However, increasing the number of ISFM practices does not necessarily lead to higher outcomes, as it may be associated with higher labour costs. These results are robust across various model specifications and combinations of ISFM practices. Sustaining the welfare gains from ISFM adoption will require improved access to agricultural production information from research institutions.