ASSESSMENT OF RICE VALUE CHAIN DEVELOPMENT IN BENUE STATE, NIGERIA
Dr. AVEUYA Agbatse Augustine and NEV Terwase Timothy
Volume 8 Issue 1
Abstract
The study assessed the capacity building needs of rice value chain actors in Benue State. The population of the study comprised of all rice value chain actors in the state. Specific objectives were to examine value chain activities in selected areas in Benue state and assess the capacity building needs of value chain actors in relation to extension delivery service system. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data from 320 respondents using multi-stage sampling techniques. The data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics. The results indicated that the local seeds were replaced by improved varieties. All the rice value chain actors: required capacity building. Three categories of factors affecting capacity building needs of rice value chain actors, socio-political, economic, and managerial and environment and climatic factors were identified. The level of use of improved practices was high in the State for producers, processors and marketers. This indicated a significant use of improved practices by rice processors in Benue State. Base on the findings of the study concludes that capacity building should be provided for all the actors within the state in order to achieve self-reliance through strengthening of human and institutional capabilities in rice economic. In view of these findings, it was recommended therefore government, non-governmental organization should be involved in the provision of critical infrastructural facilities like electricity, transportation and water to enhance rice value chain activities and reduce rice importation. Keywords: Rice, Value Chain, Development, Capacity Buildin
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