IMPACT OF INTERNATIONAL FUND FOR AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT (IFAD)/COMMUNITY BASED AGRICULTURAL AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME (CBARDP) ON POVERTY REDUCTION AMONG RURAL WOMEN IN KEBBI STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examined the impact of IFAD/CBARBDP on poverty reduction among rural women of Kebbi State Nigeria. Multi-stage random sampling technique was used to select a total of 120 beneficiaries. Interview schedule was the main tool used for data collection while descriptive statistics (means, frequency distribution and percentages) and t-test were used to analyse the data. The poverty status of the beneficiaries had improved with the program when compared with their status before the programme because of the positive effect the programme had on the income from other activities and that from livestock production. The mean annual income from other activities of the beneficiaries before participation in the programme was N35, 900.00 which increased to about N75, 600.00 with the programme. Significant difference was noted in income of the beneficiaries from other activities before and with the programme. The mean annual income from livestock before the programme was N26, 196.67and this also increased to N69, 585.83 with the programme. Based on the findings of this study, it could be concluded that intervention of the programme IFAD/CBARDP) in the study area had improved the living standard and reduce poverty of the beneficiaries (rural women) because of the positive effect it had on their income, value of asset and their general well-being or livelihood. Based on the findings of this study, it is therefore recommended that, the amount of loan given to the beneficiaries should be increased. Tailoring and knitting machine should be made available to trainees after training. The beneficiaries should be encouraged by CBARDP staff to form the habit of saving out of their earnings for future use.