In the Edu and Patigi regions of Kwara State, Nigeria, small-scale farmers play a crucial role in rice production, one of the pillars of the region's food security. However, their ability to make informed decisions throughout the rice value chain is essential for ensuring sustainable agricultural practices.
A recent study conducted by local researchers closely examined how these farmers make decisions and how these decisions impact the sustainability of the rice value chain. Focusing on members of the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN), the study revealed interesting trends regarding the priorities and challenges faced by these key agricultural producers.
One of the main findings of the study is that farmers place great importance on practices such as workplace safety and supplier diversity. However, areas like loan repayment, transparency, and seed selection receive less attention, raising concerns about the overall sustainability of the rice value chain.
To address this situation, the researchers recommend stronger government intervention to promote the adoption of sustainable practices throughout the rice value chain. This could include measures such as regulating the quality of agricultural inputs, training farmers on sustainable agricultural practices, and investing in agricultural infrastructure to improve efficiency and productivity.
By focusing on sustainability, policymakers can not only improve the living conditions of local farmers but also contribute to environmental preservation and long-term food security in the region. This study highlights the importance of understanding the challenges and opportunities faced by actors in the agricultural value chain and underscores the crucial role of sustainable development in promoting more resilient and equitable agriculture.
Inspired by : Bello, A.O.; Mbhele, T.P. A Fuzzy-AHP Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Approach for a Sustainable Supply Chain of Rice Farming Stakeholders in Edu-Patigi LGA, Kwara State, Nigeria. Sustainability 2024, 16, 1751.
