UTILIZATION OF WEATHER FORECASTS BY FOOD CROP PRODUCERS IN KANO STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The study examined the utilization of weather forecast information by food crop producers in Kano State, Nigeria, with a focus on Gaya, Kura, and Bagwai Local Government Areas. Specifically, the study described the socio-economic characteristics of farmers, assessed their communication behavior and perceptions toward weather forecast information, identified sources of weather forecasts, determined the extent of utilization, and examined constraints limiting effective use. A multistage sampling technique was employed to select 338 food crop producers, and primary data were collected using a structured interview schedule. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize farmers’ characteristics and patterns of utilization, while linear regression analysis examined the relationship between farmers’ perception of weather forecast information and selected socio-economic variables. Findings revealed that farmers generally perceived weather forecast information as useful for agricultural planning, particularly in decisions related to planting time (34.6%), land preparation (26.8%), and crop selection (8.9%). However, the extent of utilization was moderate, constrained by factors such as limited access to timely forecasts, language barriers (8.7%), inadequate extension support (19.1%), and mistrust due to perceived inaccuracies (19.6%). The study concludes that although weather forecast information has the potential to reduce production risks and enhance food security in Kano State, its effectiveness is limited by communication and institutional challenges. Strengthening extension services, improving the timeliness and localization of forecasts, and simplifying forecast messages in local languages are recommended to enhance utilization among food crop producers.