Perceived Effectiveness of Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica)-Rice Processing Technologies Utilization among Rice Processors in Kogi State, Nigeria

Abstract

In recent years, global rice consumption has seen a substantial increase, and consumption is expected to continue rising due to its significance in household diets worldwide. However, successful rice processing requires specific operations. This study assessed the effectiveness of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Rice Processing Technologies Utilization among rice processors in Kogi State, Nigeria. A three-stage sampling technique was employed to select one hundred and eighty (180) rice processors for the study. Data collection utilized a questionnaire complemented with an interview schedule, and the analysis employed descriptive statistics (frequency counts, percentages, and mean). Results revealed that the majority (91.1%) of the respondents were female with a mean age of 47.6 years. Additionally, 86.7% were married, and 56.7% had primary education. It was also found that extension agents (72.2%) were the main sources of information on JICA rice processing technologies in the study area. Furthermore, the study found that all JICA initiatives were effective. However, the false bottom at parboiling for quality paddy rice (X̅ = 3.99) and the Ajifa mill for milling clean rice grains with a good appearance (X̅ = 3.98) were rated as the most effective JICA initiatives by the respondents. Consequently, the study recommends that the government should encourage and organize free adult literacy classes to increase processors' knowledge and orientation toward processing activities.