From manual to machine: profitability and adoption of post-harvest processing technologies among cassava processors in Nigeria

Cassava is a critical crop in tropical agriculture, serving as both a staple food and a source of income. However, inefficient post-harvest processing leads to significant losses, limiting its contribution to food security and economic growth. Using survey data from 570 processors, this study evaluates the profitability of fully automated, semi-automated, and conventional cassava processing technologies. We compare cost structures and returns while taking into consideration heterogeneity across the profit distribution by using budgeting, OLS, and quintile regression. The findings demonstrate a distinct profitability gradient, with semi-automated techniques providing intermediate gains, automated systems producing the highest returns despite higher costs, and conventional processing continuing to be the least profitable. The results also show that only 18% of processors adopted automated technologies, with adoption significantly influenced by starch yield (p < 0.05), maintenance costs, and total variable costs. Automated technologies, while more expensive initially, increased starch output by 35% and net returns by 28% compared to manual methods. Cassava processing remains female-dominated (72% of respondents), suggesting the need for gender-sensitive policies. Broader adoption of automated post-harvest technologies could substantially enhance productivity and profitability, contributing to national food security and rural economic development.