Climate-smart agriculture: analysis of the determinants of adoption intensity of sustainable agronomic practices among mango farmers in the Yilo Krobo Municipality of Eastern Region of Ghana

In Ghana, Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) is essential to improving the production, resilience, and sustainability of high-value perennial crops like mangos. However, there are no empirical data regarding the variables influencing mango growers’ acceptance of CSA, especially in the climate-sensitive Yilo Krobo Municipality. Using survey data from 112 farmers and a convergent parallel mixed-methods design, this study used a Tobit regression model to investigate the institutional and socioeconomic factors that influence the intensity of CSA adoption. This is the first study to use an integrated theoretical framework that combines the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Diffusion of Innovations (DOI), and Sustainable Livelihoods Framework (SLF) to measure the degree of CSA adoption among Ghanaian mango growers. The findings indicate that while larger household size decreases CSA adoption intensity, education, agricultural experience, farm size, financial availability, and market information considerably increase it. These show the impact of information dissemination pathways (DOI), perceived utility and ease of use (TAM), and livelihood assets (SLF). Disaggregated research reveals differences in farm size, loan availability, and gender. Scaling CSA adoption requires targeted loan programmes, digital extension platforms, gender-responsive programming, and enhanced market intelligence systems. The findings offer evidence-based strategies for improving climate resilience, food security, and sustainable development.