Economic analysis of firewood marketing in Uyo capital city, Akwa, Ibom state, Nigeria

Abstract

This study ascertained the profitability and determining factors influencing firewood marketing in Uyo Capital City. The study used structured questionnaires and interview schedules to collect its data. The questionnaires were randomly administered to 75 firewood traders in the markets (Itam market, Akpan Andem market and Afaha market) being 67% of the population frame. Data obtained were analysed using descriptive statistics, budgetary technique, profitability analysis and regression analysis. The result showed that majority of the respondents were female (92%), were above 30 years of age (83%), were literate (93%), married (73%) and had a household size of 1-5 persons (53%). Also, majority of the traders (72%) had been in the trade for more than 10 years, were engaged at full-time (76%) basis, 63% belonged to an association, started the trade with their personal funds (88%). The trade was profitable with a mean income of $94 (₦34105.20) monthly. The regression coefficient (R 2) indicated that the income determinants accounted for 56.5% of the variations in the receipts from firewood sales. Mode of engagement and scale of operation had significant and positive effect on revenue (p<0.05), while household size was negative and significant (p<0.10), Educational status, age of trader and cost incurred was positive and significant (p<0.01) respectively. Majority of the firewood (84%) traded in the study area was bought from Ibiono and the most species commonly traded was from the family Fabaceae, while the species Dactyladenia barteri (Hook.f. ex Oliv.) was the most traded as firewood in the study area. The study recommends evaluation of the production and regeneration of the firewood species especially Dactyladenia barteri (Hook.f. ex Oliv.) under different management regimes across the state and in particular Ibiono, which serve as the major source of firewood for Uyo Capital City.

Livelihood and Resource Interaction of Households in Itu Wetland, Nigeria

“…However, 10.18% (N = 12) of the respondents were also engaged in other livelihood activities such as tailoring, hairdressing, etc. According to Scoones' findings, the large proportion of individuals in the research region who work in agriculture and fishermen is consistent with his findings that wetlands contribute immensely to the livelihoods of millions of people living in its support zone communities as it offers a variety of both tangible and intangible benefits to the people (Jacob et al, 2017;Scoones, 1991;1998).…”