Challenges to Smallholder Rice Farmers’ Participation in Cluster Farming in Ebonyi State, Nigeria

The study examined challenges to smallholder rice farmers’ participation in cluster farming in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. A sample of 220 smallholder rice farmers were selected using a multistage sampling procedure. Data for the study were collected using a structured questionnaire and were analyzed using percentages, mean scores, and Pearson Product-Moment Correlation. Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) was used to analyze the data. The result showed that the farmers participated in the exhibition ( = 2.68), training ( = 2.62), and planning ( = 2.61). The key benefits to participation in cluster farming include, access to improved agricultural technologies ( = 3.96), easy training of farmers (= 3.91), and access to inputs ( = 3.78). Challenges hindering the farmers from participating in cluster farming were limited information (= 2.96), conflict of interest ( = 2.87), and weak institutions (= 2.86). The study showed a statistically positive relationship (p = 0.05) between participation and benefits derived from cluster farming. Conclusively, the potentials of cluster farming is hampered by numerous challenges. Strengthening and revitalizing the extension service to train cluster members on the use of modern communication tools and cluster formation is recommended.