ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF WHEAT PROCESSING INTO GURASA IN DALA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA KANO STATE NIGERIA

This study examined the economic analysis of wheat processing into Gurasa in Dala Local Government Area of Kano State. Wheat is one of the most widely cultivated cereal crops in the world and serves as a major raw material for the production of bread, pasta, noodles, and other baked products. In Nigeria, the demand for wheat-based products has continued to increase, leading to high levels of wheat importation. Gurasa, a traditional flat bread commonly consumed in Northern Nigeria, has become an important small-scale business that provides income and employment opportunities for many households, especially women. The study aimed to describe the socio-economic characteristics of Gurasa producers, determine the profitability of the business, identify the marketing channels used, and examine the major constraints affecting production. Primary data were collected from 65 respondents selected from five major Gurasa production areas in Dala Local Government Area using structured questionnaires. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, and mean. The findings revealed that most Gurasa producers were women within the active working age group and that the business serves as an important source of livelihood. The study further showed that Gurasa production is profitable despite the rising cost of raw materials and other operational expenses. Direct sales to consumers were found to be the most common marketing channel used by producers. However, several challenges were identified, including the high cost of flour, lack of access to credit facilities, high transportation costs, poor storage facilities, and stiff competition among producers. The study concluded that Gurasa production remains a viable and profitable enterprise in the study area. It recommended the provision of soft loans, subsidized raw materials, improved storage facilities, and training on hygiene, packaging, and modern processing techniques to enhance productivity and profitability among Gurasa producers.