Tiger Nut (Cyperus Esculentus Lativum) as a Cash Crop: Assessing its Economic Impact on Smallholder Farmers in Nadowli-Kaleo District of Ghana

Tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus Lativum) is an emerging cash crop with significant economic potential for smallholder farmers in Ghana. Despite its nutritional and medicinal benefits, research on its impact on household welfare and the challenges affecting its production and marketability remains limited. This study examines the economic contributions of tiger nut cultivation to farmers' livelihoods in the Nadowli-Kaleo District, employing a mixed-method approach with data from 310 farmers through surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions, the findings revealed a strong positive relationship between tiger nut farming and household income, with 88% of respondents reporting earnings from cultivation. Increased income enables farmers to invest in food crop production, enhancing household food security while also creating employment opportunities and diversifying local economies. However, challenges such as poor market access, high input costs, and climate variability hinder productivity. The study concludes that tiger nut farming significantly improves livelihoods and recommends policy interventions for sustainable growth in the sector.