An assessment of technologies used in the small-scale palm oil processing industry in the Tano North and South Districts of the Brong Ahafo Region of Ghana

Abstract

This study assessed the technologies used in small scale palm oil processing industries in the Tano North and South Districts of the Brong Ahafo Region of Ghana. Questionnaire survey, focus group discussions and non-participant observations were used to collect data on the practices used by the processors and the types of equipment used. Processors in the two districts were found to have adopted the semi-mechanized technology aside the traditional processing technology. Four types of equipment were identified namely; mortar and pestle, digester with separate hand operated screw press, the flushing extractor and the digester with separate hand operated hydraulic press. The mortar and pestle was perceived to be the easiest to use and maintain as well as the most appropriate. On the other hand it was agreed to be the least effective and profitable among the four types of equipment. The digester with separate hand operated hydraulic press was agreed to be the most effective and profitable equipment but the most difficult to use and maintain. This implies that if processors who use the digester with separate hand operated hydraulic press are well trained in the use and maintenance of the equipment, a lot of benefits will be derived.