Analysis of Parboiled Rice Processing in Northern Region of Ghana: Determinants, Constraints and Opportunities

Constraints, Determinants, Northern region, Probit model, Parboil rice This paper aims at understanding the current dynamics that underlie the parboil rice industry in the Northern Region of Ghana and the analysis focuses on the determinants, constraints, and opportunities. Study utilise recent primary data collected (March-April 2019) from 270 rice processors across two districts purposively selected. Quantitative analysis was done using Probit and non-parametric methods to identify determinants and rank constraints associated with local rice parboiling. The findings revealed that rice parboiling is the primary activity of women and Jasmine and AGRA rice is the most commonly varieties processed. Grades and standards for parboiling rice exist but enforcement in the marketplace is weak. Education level, age and experience of processors are the key determinants of rice parboiling in the Northern Region. Inadequate technical know-how, low capacity of processing equipment, lack of grades and standards, general low prices and demand, and lack of finance are the main constraints hindering the proper development of the local rice industry and efficient participation of households in markets. Emerging opportunities in the sector which women and youth could take advantage for better livelihoods includes sale to institutions (schools, prisons, and hospitals), packaging, and the government input subsidy programme.