Effectiveness of E-Wallet Scheme on the Accessibility of Farm Inputs by Farmers in Kaduna State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study assessed the Effectiveness of E-Wallet Scheme on the Accessibility of Farm Inputs by Farmers in Kaduna State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to: identify the reasons for farmers’ participation in the scheme, determine effectiveness of E-wallet, determine the average annual income of the farmers before and after E-Wallet scheme, and identify the factors that influenced the Effectiveness of E-wallet scheme. Data were collected by the use of structured interview schedule with the help of trained enumerators from Kaduna State Agricultural Development Project (KADP). The research used 240 questionnaires which were administered to the beneficiaries in the four Zones of KADP that constitute the study area. Descriptive statistics, Likert scale and Logit regression model were used to analyze the data collected. The study adjudged that e-wallet scheme was very effective in timely supply of inputs, quality supply of inputs and access to inputs. On the effect of the scheme on their livelihood, 34.6%, 30% and 28.7% of the respondents reported that it was effective on their businesses, productivity, and income, respectively. Income, Network, Access to fertilizer, Access to improved seed, redemption centers were factors that were positive and significant in influencing the effectiveness of the E-wallet Scheme in the study area. The study revealed that 51.7% said that a payment above the stipulated price was one of the major challenges faced by farmers of the scheme. It is recommended that the quality of fertilizer and seeds supplied should be scrutinized to avoid fake supplies and there should be strict monitoring to curb increase in prices and sale of the inputs by beneficiaries.