Information needs and seeking behaviour among Urban farmers in Kwara State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the socio-economic characteristics of people involved in urban farming, their information needs and seeking behaviour. The study area was Ilorin metropolis in Kwara state. A structured questionnaire was used to elicit information from 100 urban farmers. Purposive sampling technique was used in selecting the respondents and the data collected were analyzed by the use of descriptive and inferential statistical tools. The study showed that urban farming was a supplementary activity practiced by people with high literacy level Their mean age was 47 years and mean income from their main occupation was N22,000. The farms are mainly located within the city with more farmers practicing animal production than crop production. People turned to urban farming practice as a coping mechanism to survive the economic hardship of the urban center. The study concluded that urban farming had some unique features and has impact on the social and economic life of its practitioners. However, it suggested that urban farmers could produce better result if the necessary technical and financial impetus was provided. It was recommended that government should give official recognition to urban farming and pay attention to it through relevant existing agencies. The roles to be played by agricultural extension service providers were also mentioned.


University of Dar es Salaam Library Journal Vol. 8 (1&2) 2006: pp. 73-87