Research Article
Technical Efficiency of Teff Production: The Case of Mareka District in Dawuro Zone, Southwestern Ethiopia
Selamu Desta*
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 2, April 2025
Pages:
29-38
Received:
1 January 2025
Accepted:
20 January 2025
Published:
13 March 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijaas.20251102.11
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Abstract: This study examines the technical efficiency of smallholder teff producers in Mareka district, revealing significant productivity differences attributed to varying efficiency in resource use. Data from 174 randomly selected farmers during the 2020/21 production season were analyzed using a Cobb-Douglas Stochastic Frontier Production (SFP) function, resulting in a mean technical efficiency level of 70.7%. This indicates a potential for a 29.3% improvement in efficiency with existing resources. The analysis identified key factors influencing technical efficiency, showing that teff output was positively affected by the use of fertilizers, labor, oxen days, and land area. The inefficiency discrepancy ratio was approximately 67.16%. Furthermore, maximum likelihood estimation highlighted that factors such as sex, education, soil fertility, livestock ownership, off-farm income, training, credit access, and extension contact significantly influenced technical inefficiency. To enhance technical efficiency among teff producers, the study recommends improving education, asset ownership, credit access, and facilitating knowledge exchange between efficient and inefficient farmers. These strategies aim to increase overall teff productivity in the region.
Abstract: This study examines the technical efficiency of smallholder teff producers in Mareka district, revealing significant productivity differences attributed to varying efficiency in resource use. Data from 174 randomly selected farmers during the 2020/21 production season were analyzed using a Cobb-Douglas Stochastic Frontier Production (SFP) function,...
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