Fertilizer inaccessibility, rural livelihood and sustainable agriculture in Kaduna State: a participatory appraisal

Abstract

Inaccessibility of chemical fertilizer results in low level of productivity among farmers, Apart from low productivity it has other impacts on rural livelihood and the environmental dynamics, which have not been thoroughly investigated. Inorganic fertilizers have become a major source of soil nutrient improvement for many farmers but its high cost usually makes it inaccessible to many farmers. The main purpose of the study is to analyse the socio-economic inaccessibility of chemical fertilizer and itsconsequences on sustainable rural and environment development. A participatory appraisal methodology was adopted. The analysis shows that inaccessibility to chemical fertilizer has negative impact on rural livelihood by causing low yield. However, it has a positive effect by inducing the adoption of organic fertilizer, which is deemed environment-friendly agriculture. The conclusion is that although the environmentfriendly, organic fertilizer-supported agriculture has taken root, it still faces enormous challenges when compared to chemical fertilizers. The study recommends adopting participatory approach to educate, and enlighten farmers as well as to evaluate agricultural and livelihood system of farmers; motivation of farmers who adopt environment-friendly practices; and a gradual substitution of chemical fertilizer with organic nutrient for sustainable agriculture among others.