Rice processing methods in Middle Rima Valley Irrigation Scheme (MRVIS), Sokoto State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study was conducted to examine the rice processing techniques employed by rice processors in MRVIS. A table of random numbers was used to sample 103 rice processors comprising parboilers and millers. Data were collected using questionnaire and interview schedule and then analysed using descriptive statistics, Strength, weakness, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) and Strategic Orientation Round (SOR). The findings revealed that parboiling is a gender discriminating activity conducted by females, only one of the parboilers in the area used modern techniques to parboil the rice. About 62.5% of the millers were male who milled the parboiled paddy traditionally using locally available equipment at a cottage level. The mean age of the processors (40) shows that adults dominated the processing enterprise. The most important strengths were good health, existence of small capital, availability of raw materials, experience, and teamwork. The most important weaknesses were non-existence of modern parboiling equipment, non-existence of credit source, lack of knowledge on improved practices, Lack of standardization of measure and non-existence of milling machines. The most important opportunities were availability of market, job creation, existence of modern milling machines, existence of packaging machines and increasing urban demand for local rice. The most important threats were the seasonal water scarcity, desertification (climate change), poor quality of paddy and price variation. The rice processing sub-sector in MRVIS, is a rudimentary enterprise and fragmented leading to the production of inferior milled rice which is lower in quantity as well. The Government and cooperative societies should employ modern techniques for rice processing in MRVIS.