Abstract:
The study accessed the level of participation of rice farmers in group activities in Fadama III AF
in Anambra State, Nigeria. The study evaluated the rice farmers participation at different stages
of the project development; sources of information, level of participation of the respondents in
the project; the effects of some socio-economic characteristics on their level of participation in
groups; and identify constraints faced by the respondents. A multistage random sampling
technique was employed in selecting 120 respondents for the study. Primary data were collected
through the use of structured interview schedule. Descriptive and inferential statistics were
employed as analytical tools for the study. The result revealed that majority (98.33%) and
(83.33%) were highly involved in project implementation and identification respectively. Greater
proportion (28.33%) soured their information on Fadama III AF through radio, indicating a gap
in facilitators and extension delivery systems which calls for intensified efforts. Also the result
showed that except in project monitoring and evaluation, the rice farmers were highly involved
and committed in the ideologies of Fadama III AF. The regression analysis on the determinants
of rice - farmer in group activities in the project indicated that some variables considered were
positively correlated and significant at 1% for household size and 5% for educational level and
extension contact respectively. The study identified constraints faced by the rice - farmers in
group activities in Fadama III AF to include, untimely disbursement of farm inputs; lack of credit
facilities, high cost of production, and high counterpart contribution from the beneficiaries. The
study suggest the encouragement of the farmers to maintain regular and active participation in
projects initiated by government. Government should ensure timely provision of farm inputs and
at affordable rates as well as accessibility of credit facilities by the beneficiaries. |
