Sustainable Agriculture Practices Adoption among Smallholder Farms in Ghana: An Economic and Sustainability Assessment

Sustainable agriculture practices are crucial for enhancing food security and environmental sustainability in Ghana’s Upper East Region, particularly among smallholder farmers who play a vital role in the region's agricultural economy. A mixed-methods approach was employed, involving both quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with a sample of 150 smallholder farmers. Data were collected from June to August , focusing on socio-economic profiles, current agricultural practices, and perceptions towards sustainable methods. The survey revealed that over 70% of respondents reported adopting at least one form of sustainable agriculture practice, with the most common being organic fertilizers and intercropping. However, significant challenges related to cost and access to resources were identified as major deterrents to wider adoption. While there is potential for economic growth through sustainable practices, overcoming financial barriers remains a critical challenge. The study suggests that targeted interventions focusing on capacity building and reducing costs could accelerate the adoption of these methods among smallholder farmers in Ghana’s Upper East Region. Policy makers should prioritise funding for research and development of cost-effective sustainable agricultural technologies. Additionally, initiatives aimed at improving access to credit and training programmes would enhance the feasibility of adopting sustainable farming practices.