Women farmers as veritable tools in rural community development: a case study of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike Model Communities in Abia State, Nigeria
Abstract
Owing to the short fall in agricultural production as result of ineffective labour, women have responded as veritable tools in boosting food production to the nation. The study was carried out in the model communities of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike (Umudike, Umuariaga and Ndoro) which are in Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State. A total of 150 respondents were randomly selected for the study. Data were collected through a well-structured interviewed schedule and oral discussion. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and focus group discussion. Findings showed that majority of the farmers were females. Results revealed that almost all the women were involved in farm activities to enhance the wellbeing of their communities and the entire nation. It further revealed that inadequate farm materials, inadequate capital, inadequate health facilities, inefficient market, bad road, and community conflict were their major problems. Inadequacy of farm materials has been a problem because when they are not sufficient, farmers found it difficult to produce on a larger scale. It was also observed that large percentage of the respondents was married. This means spouses take decision on agriculture and rural development activities in the host communities. Result revealed that, the respondents were predominantly Christians. In conclusion, women farmers in MOUAU selected model communities in Abia State are predominantly Christians.
Keywords: Women Farmers, Veritable Tools, Model Community and Development
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