Background
The Volta Region has significant potential for rice production, with suitable lowland areas and water resources. However, farmers have historically achieved only 2-3 MT/ha compared to a potential of 6-8 MT/ha.
The Intervention
Working with a development partner, ARC Ltd designed and implemented a comprehensive rice development programme targeting 500 farmers across three districts.
Key Components
1. Farmer Selection and Profiling- Baseline surveys to understand farmer practices
- Selection criteria based on commitment and land availability
- Digital registration for tracking
- Good agricultural practices for lowland rice
- Integrated pest management
- Water management techniques
- Certified seeds of improved varieties
- Fertilizer recommendations based on soil tests
- Access to quality agrochemicals
- Aggregation through farmer groups
- Forward contracts with processors
- Quality-based pricing incentives
Results
After two production seasons:
- Average yields increased from 2.5 MT/ha to 5.2 MT/ha
- 92% of farmers adopted at least 4 recommended practices
- Total production increased from 1,250 MT to 2,600 MT
- Farmer incomes improved by an average of 65%
Lessons Learned
Sustainability
The programme has transitioned to a self-sustaining model with farmer groups now independently accessing inputs and markets.