Effect of International Fund for Agricultural Development–Value Chain Program (IFAD-VCP) on Rice Output of Cooperative Farmers in South East Nigeria

Abstract

The paper assessed the effect of International Fund for Agricultural Development - Value Chain Development Program (IFAD-VCDP) on rice output among cooperative farmers in Southeast Nigeria. The objectives were to evaluate the program interventions in access to training and market and their effects on rice output. The research design adopted is descriptive survey. The population was 16,989 cooperative rice farmers in 19 local government areas across Anambra, Enugu and Ebonyi states where rice farming activities are being carried out. 391 farmers were selected using Taro Yamane and Bowler’s formulae. Data were collected through a five-point Likert type structured questionnaire while hypotheses were tested using the Panel Least Squares Regression Model with the aid of E- Views 10. Findings showed that regular workshops on innovative planting techniques, training on safe and effective agrochemical application, leveraging information technology for farm management, operation of agricultural machinery and equipment maintenance, and extension services on sustainable farming practices (P < 0.05), all significantly enhanced rice output. Also providing timely market trends and updates through workshops, investing in modern storage facilities, improving market infrastructure in collaboration with local authorities, and establishing partnerships with reliable off takers (P < 0.05) significantly enhanced rice output. However, improved transportation facilities (P > 0.05) did not have a significant effect on rice output. The study recommended among others that cooperative professionals and extension officers should develop sustainable training programs for continuous improvement of knowledge and skills of cooperative farmers and provide timely market information, market services improvement and stabilization to mitigate market risks and losses experienced by farmers.