Optimum farm practices for enhanced rice production in the Tono Irrigation Dam: A discrete choice experiment

Abstract Ghana's ongoing reliance on rice imports persists despite government and non‐governmental organization efforts to boost local production. A recent survey aimed to identify optimal farming practices for rice cultivation in the Upper East Region, focusing on farmers within the Tono Irrigation Scheme. Utilizing a discrete choice experiment with blocked fractional factorial designs, a sample of 300 participants was selected through stratified random sampling, and the study employed a mixed logit model based on random utility theory for data analysis. Findings indicate that successful rice production is significantly influenced by various factors, particularly the selection of high‐yielding seeds, reliable water sources, and effective nutrient management. Additionally, proper land preparation and pest management contribute to healthier crops. Demographic factors such as household size, farmland size, farming experience, marital status, and education level also influence yields. To enhance rice production in the region, the study recommends expanding irrigable land around the Tono dam to address land fragmentation and promoting year‐round rice farming. Furthermore, government support in providing high‐yield seed varieties and subsidies for agricultural inputs is essential for improving overall yields.