Assessing Factors Influencing Cassava Yield in Salayea, Liberia: A Study Using the Analytical Hierarchy Process

This study examines the factors influencing cassava yield among farmers in Salayea, Lofa County, Liberia. As cassava is a vital staple in Liberia, providing food security and economic benefits, understanding the decline in its productivity is paramount. This research employs the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) to assess three main themes: Climate and Temporal Factors, Production and Yield Factors, and Financial and Economic Factors. Data were collected from 60 cassava farmers through surveys, which were then analyzed to determine the relative importance of various sub-factors within these themes. The findings revealed that Financial and Economic Factors, particularly access to loans and low soil fertility, had the most significant impact on cassava yields. In contrast, Climate and Temporal Factors, such as rising temperatures, increased soil acidity, late planting, as well as production and yield factors, including damage caused by livestock and Improper spacing, were ranked lowest overall. This research provides policymakers, development organizations, and agricultural institutions with valuable insights to enhance cassava productivity.