Factors Influencing Maize Production in Sikasso Region of Mali

Abstract

In recent times, there has been decline in maize production in Mali due to several factors; one of which is that of access to inputs such as fertilizer and improved seeds. Hence, 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 was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics such as Chi-square, Pearson Product Moment Correction (PPMC), ANOVA and regression at 0.05 significant levels. Results reveal beneficiaries’ mean age to be 48.50±12.63 years. Almost all (99.0%) beneficiaries were males and married, 92.5% were Muslims, while 63.5% had informal education. Mean farm size and mean seasonal income was 3.18±2.72 ha and 259,250±286,592.90 Fcfa respectively. Subsidized inputs that are mostly used and accessed by beneficiaries are UREA and NPK fertilizers, while DAP, organic fertilizer and hybrid seeds were least accessed and used. Inadequate financial capability to purchase inputs despite being subsidized and insufficiency of inputs are the major constraint faced by beneficiaries. Farm size (r=0.57, p<0.01) and income (r=0.271, p<0.01) significantly related to respondents’ production level. Significant difference exists in the level of maize production among beneficiaries’ groups (f=8.646, p<0.01). Farm size and income were significant predictors of production level. 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’ utilization of hybrid seeds will be encouraged. Keywords: Inputs, subsidy, maize production, farmers