Comparing Yields and Profitability in MARD's High- and Low-Input Maize Programs 1997/98 Survey Results and Analysis

This paper summarizes the results from data collected during the study’s second year, 1997/98. The analysis is based on a sample of 210 smallholder farmers in Nampula Province using three different sets of production practices: the DNER/Sasakawa- Global 2000 Program (DNER/SG) high-input package (improved open-pollinated maize, 100 kg/ha each 12-24-12 and urea fertilizer on credit); improved planting and weeding practices only (using local seed, without fertilizer); and a control group of farmers using traditional practices (no improved seed or fertilizer). The objectives of the research were to: describe the characteristics, input use patterns and yield response by group; analyze the relative contribution to yield of the different technologies, environmental factors, and management practices; and assess the profitability of the three different technology types at the farm level.