Determinant Factor of Rural Women Households’ Participation in Agricultural Extension Service: The Case of Vegetables and Crops Production Under Irrigation Condition in Horo Guduru Wallaga Zone Western, Oromia Regional State.

The main objective of the study was to evaluate the variables affecting rural women's involvement in irrigation-assisted agricultural activities. A sample of 185 women participated in the descriptive statistical analysis, which used a number of important techniques to collect and analyze data. The study highlighted the familial framework in which these women function, with a typical household size of almost 5.5 individuals. The income from cereal production was highly skewed, highlighting the differences in agricultural income among rural women and showing that while some households prosper economically, many others struggle. The results showed that 72% were actively engaged in agricultural activities indicating a notable participation gap. Critical barriers that these women encountered were also found by the investigation, including a lack of government incentives, a shortage of land, and insufficient training and extension services. These limitations were assessed as significant impediments to productive agricultural engagement, indicating that structural problems limit rural women's agricultural potential. A startling 78% of participants had negative opinions about the use of irrigation for crop production, citing potential obstacles as the expense and complexity of irrigation equipment. The associations between different socioeconomic characteristics and women's involvement in irrigation techniques were also investigated using logistic regression analysis. Education and income level had a big impact on engagement. Lower participation was associated with higher income levels, possibly as a result of a change in agricultural focus or resource allocation. The amount of land holdings was found to have a substantial negative impact on participation.