Socioeconomic Determinants of Rain-fed Rice Production among Small-scale Farmers in the Shama-Ahanta East District of Ghana

Abstract

Rice is considered as the second most important staple food crop in Ghana and it is produced mainly by small-scale farmers. Rice production in Ghana meets only 30 to 40 percent of the total demand. The need to increase local rice production is essential, hence this study was designed to identify and analyze the socioeconomic factors that influence rice production among small-scale farmers in the Shama-Ahanta East District of Ghana in order to enhance production. Using structured questionnaire, a multistage sampling procedure was used to collect data from 320 rice farmers. Data were subjected to descriptive and Tobit regression analysis. The results show a relatively low level output of 1.05 ton/ha among rice farmers, of whom 73% were males. Significant socioeconomic factors found to influence rice production include age, gender, educational level, household size, household income, and access to agricultural extension services. Training and empowering more agricultural Extension Agents and the development of policies to enhance female farmers involvement in rice production is recommended.