Available Resources and Factors Influencing the Adoption of Modern Rice Technologies among Farmers in Kambia District, Sierra Leone

Abstract

This study examined the factors influencing the adoption of modern rice technologies among farmers in Kambia District. A cross-sectional survey design was employed using primary data collected from 312 rice farmers selected across three chiefdoms in four communities in Kambia District. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, binary logistic regression, chi-square tests, Kendall’s W ranking, and post-hoc analysis to identify the major drivers and constraints influencing technology adoption. The findings revealed that rice farming in the district is predominantly undertaken by experienced smallholder farmers within economically active age groups, with 93.6% relying on rice farming as their major source of household income. However, low levels of formal education remain widespread, as 35.6% of respondents had no formal education. Although improved rice varieties such as ROK 10 and NERICA are increasingly cultivated, many farmers still depend on traditional varieties due to limited access to improved inputs and financial services. The logistic regression model showed strong explanatory power (Nagelkerke R2 = 0.531; p χ2 = 12.12, p = 0.436), whereas access to improved rice seed varieties was strongly associated with household income source (χ2 = 36.49, p < 0.0001). Post-hoc analysis further showed significant disparities in seed access, particularly among farmers engaged in non-farm activities and rice farming, suggesting systemic inequalities in input distribution. The study concludes that adoption of modern rice technologies in Kambia District is influenced by a complex interaction of economic, institutional, social, and resource-related factors. The study recommends strengthening extension services, improving rural credit, subsidizing inputs, expanding farmer training, and enhancing irrigation and mechanization infrastructure to promote adoption and improve rice productivity and food security.