Perception and Knowledge of Rice Value Chain Actors on the Effect of Improved Practices on Yield and Milling Characteristics of Rice in the Sagnarigu and Kumbungu Districts of Ghana

Abstract

This study presents findings from a comprehensive survey conducted between January and March 2021, aimed at elucidating the agricultural practices and perceptions of rice farmers, processors, and marketers in the Sagnarigu and Kumbungu districts of the Northern Region in Ghana. The research sought to gather essential data on improved techniques employed in rice cultivation, milling, and marketing, as well as understand the perceptions surrounding these practices within the local farming communities. Employing a multi-stage sampling methodology, primary data were collected through face-to-face interviews with 134 rice farmers, 82 processors, and 22 marketers.  Key findings revealed that a significant proportion (54.7%) of farmers preferred cultivating local rice varieties such as Moses, Bumbass, Mandii, Bazolgu, Salimasaa, and Assemblyman. Moreover, the survey indicated that 54.5% of farmers adopted the broadcasting method for planting seeds, while only 18% practiced line transplanting with well-defined spacing. Additionally, a majority of transplanting activities occurred when seedlings were at least 4 weeks old, highlighting potential inefficiencies in timing. The study identified several constraints hindering rice production in both lowland and irrigated rice ecosystems across the surveyed districts. These constraints include the prevalence of poor-quality seed varieties, inadequate spacing, suboptimal timing of transplanting, and low soil fertility. Addressing these challenges is imperative for enhancing rice productivity and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in the region.