Rice Research: Open Access
Open Access

Rice production in Tigray region was introduced in the near past with not more than 15 years. In the area regardless of the rapidly growing demand for rice grain and the potential, rice productivity is lower. Thus, the production is lower to cover the demand. So, this study was proposed to estimate rice productivity and identify the determinant factors in Tselemti district, Tigray region. It was also proposed to identify the major rice value chain actors with their roles, functions, their relationships, and finally to draw the roots in the study area. To handle these objectives this study used both primary and secondary data sources obtained from a total of 113 rice cultivator farmers selected applying multi-stage sampling technique, focus group discussion and key informant interview. Data was collected using the semi-structured questionnaire, check list and referring the published and un-published reports focusing on2017/18 production season. Most of the rice cultivator farmers in Tselemti district used production inputs such as; labor force (about 38man a day from staring to end), improved seed (improved seed whom have obtained from governmental and nongovernmental institutions), apply chemical fertilizer, different chemicals (pesticides and insecticides) and use oxen plough power, and average land size of 0.39 ha.by interacting these inputs, the farmers obtained the rice productivity of 1.9tons/ha that leads to the average production per household of 0.71tons at the average cost of 5674ETB. Of this total production 89.2% used for family consumption while the remaining 9.4% and 1.4% used for selling and for seed respectively. Applying multiple linear regression model, the significant determinant variables of rice productivity in Tselemti district were such as; education level of the household head in level of schooling years, the method rice sowing, experience in rice production in years, frequency of farm visit, total rice sowing area and extension service. As value addition technologies, there were large number of machineries, but out of which only one is in function. As recommendation, to improve the productivity of rice it is important to capacitate the rice producers to strengthen through practical trainings, facilitate experience sharing to get experience from the experienced once and consult the farmers to frequently visit their rice farms. Farmers should also apply row method of rice sowing. It will also better if farmers get extension service on rice cultivation. Based on the results found it is possible to conclude that rice in the area is one of the major crops that was recently introduced which faces lower productivity resulted by different determinant factor. The area that rice could be cultivated is not comfortable for cultivation of other crops (if rice is not shown on that land, it remains out of production). It is also observable that fewer research reports were found regarding rice production in the area indicating that lower emphasis was given to rice production in Tselemti district, Tigray region.