Organic Farming and Sustainability of Agricultural Production in Era of Economic Uncertainty in Anambra State

Okafor Ndu Bibian¹; Izuakor Chiamaka Francisca²; Alaribe Mary Otitochukwu³

^1&2Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria
³Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract:
Organic farming presents a viable approach to addressing the sustainability challenges faced by agriculture in Anambra State, Nigeria. Specifically, the paper sought to explore the extent of organic farming adoption, evaluates its economic viability and environmental benefits, and identifies the challenges to its widespread implementation. The study uses descriptive statistics to answer research questions and test the hypotheses. The paper made use of 140 sample size, respondents composed of 88 executives of Anambra State Farmers Association of Ayamelu LGA and 52 extension agents redeployed to that LGA. The instrument used to gather data was structured questionnaire validated by three experts in the field. Cronbach Alpha reliability method was used to determine the internal consistency or reliability of the instrument. A Cronbach Alpha coefficient of 0.82 was obtained which indicated a well internal consistency of the instrument. A descriptive statistical tool of distribution table, means and standard deviation were used to answer research questions 1-3 and two sample t-test used to test for hypotheses. The study discovered that while organic farming practices are gaining traction, their adoption remains limited due to challenges such as access to organic inputs, inadequate knowledge, and market constraints. Farmers who have adopted organic practices reported improved soil health and environmental benefits, though economic viability varies and often depends on market access and input costs. The research identifies key challenges such as lack of technical support, limited availability of organic inputs, and insufficient market infrastructure. Recommendations includes Governments and NGOs intervention to educate farmers and improve access to organic inputs, establishment of community – based organic input depository for easy market channels for organic products and the use of innovative strategies and technologies to encourage local farmers for maximum implementation of organic farming.    The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how organic farming can be leveraged to achieve sustainable agricultural production in Anambra State, providing insights for policymakers, agricultural extension services, and farmers aiming to promote more sustainable practices.

Conclusion:
Organic farming presents a viable approach to addressing the sustainability challenges faced by agriculture in Anambra State, Nigeria. This study explores the extent of organic farming adoption, evaluates its economic viability and environmental benefits, and identifies the barriers to its widespread implementation.

Using descriptive statistics, the research assesses the current practices among farmers, the impact on soil health and crop yields, and the overall economic and environmental advantages of organic methods, more especially in sustaining agricultural production. The study finds that while organic farming practices are gaining traction, their adoption remains limited due to challenges such as access to organic inputs, inadequate knowledge, and market constraints. Farmers who have adopted organic practices report improved soil health and environmental benefits, though economic viability varies and often depends on market access and input costs. The research identifies key barriers including lack of technical support, limited availability of organic inputs, and insufficient market infrastructure.

The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how organic farming can be leveraged to achieve sustainable agricultural production in Anambra State, providing insights for policymakers, agricultural extension services, and farmers aiming to promote more sustainable practices

Key words: Organic Farming, Sustainability and Agricultural Production

Organic-Farming-and-Sustainability-of-Agricultural-Production-in-Era-of-Economic-Uncertainty-in-Anambra-State