Factors influencing maize production in Sikasso Region of Mali

Abstract

This study examined the contribution of subsidized inputs to farmers’ level of maize production in Sikasso region of Mali. A multistage sampling procedure was used to select 200 beneficiaries of input subsidy for this study. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data which were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics such as Chi-square, Pearson Product Moment Correction (PPMC), ANOVA and regression at 0.05 significant level. Results reveal beneficiaries’ mean age to be 48.50 years. Almost all (99.0%) beneficiaries were males and married, while 63.5% had informal education. Mean farm size and mean seasonal income were 3.18 ha and 259,250 Fcfa ($432) respectively. Subsidized inputs that were mostly used and accessed by beneficiaries were UREA and NPK fertilizers, while Diammonium phosphate, organic fertilizer and hybrid seeds were least accessed and used. Inadequate financial capability to purchase inputs despite being subsidized and insufficiency of inputs were the major constraints faced by beneficiaries. Farm size (r=0.57, p≤0.01) and income (r=0.271, p≥0.01) were significantly related to respondents’ production level. Significant difference exists in the level of maize production among beneficiaries’ groups (f=8.646, p<??0.01). The study concludes that farm size and farmers’ income contributed more to farmers’ level of maize production. This study recommends that credit should be made available to maize farmers by government, NGOs or other financial institutions with little or no collateral. Also, hybrid seeds that could be preserved till the next planting season should be developed so that farmers’ utilisation of hybrid seeds will be encouraged. Keywords: Farm size, income, maize production, farmers