Factors Influencing Farm Households’ Participation in Watermelon Production in Sokoto State, Nigeria

Introduction

Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is a widely cultivated fruit crop known for its economic and nutritional benefits. In Sokoto State, Nigeria, watermelon farming has significantly contributed to the livelihoods of small-scale farmers. However, various factors influence farmers’ participation in watermelon production, impacting the industry’s growth.

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Key Findings from the Study

Researchers analyzed the socio-economic factors affecting farm households’ participation in watermelon production across three local government areas in Sokoto State. The study highlighted the following insights:

• Age & Gender: 55.8% of farm households were between 25-30 years, with 96.7% of participants being male.
• Income Motivation: 64% of respondents cited higher income potential as a key driver for participating in watermelon farming.
• Constraints: The most common barriers included lack of storage technologies (68.5%), high input costs (66.3%), and limited access to modern equipment (64.1%).
• Socio-Economic Influences: Farm size and farming experience had significant relationships (p < 0.05) with participation levels.

Read the full study at https://doi.org/10.29328/journal.jpsp.1001045.

Broader Agricultural Implications

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) emphasizes that access to agricultural resources and modern farming techniques can boost farmers’ productivity and income. Supporting farm households with subsidies, credit facilities, and improved market access can enhance watermelon production efficiency.

Addressing Key Challenges in Watermelon Farming

To encourage greater participation, policymakers and agricultural stakeholders should focus on:

• Providing Subsidized Inputs – 63.5% of farmers identified this as crucial for boosting production.
• Enhancing Market Accessibility – 63.5% of participants stressed the need for better market connections.
• Improving Extension Services – 54.1% of respondents emphasized the importance of training and guidance.
• Developing Storage Solutions – Poor storage leads to post-harvest losses, affecting profitability.

Conclusion & Call-to-Action

Watermelon production in Sokoto State presents a viable economic opportunity for small-scale farmers. By addressing key constraints, increasing agricultural investments, and implementing farmer-friendly policies, participation in watermelon farming can be significantly improved.

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