EFFECT OF MALARIA PREVALENCE ON FARM PRODUCTIVITY OF FARMING HOUSEHOLDS IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA

This study evaluated the effect of malaria prevalence on farm
productivity of farming households in Imo State, Nigeria. Multistage random sampling technique was used to select 108 respondents
who sourced malaria treatment from health care service providers
with the aid of a well structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed
using descriptive statistics, malaria prevalence and incidence rate
model, productivity index model, as well as ordinary least square
multiple regression model. Farmers had a mean age of 49 years, 8
persons per household, 8 years educational attainment, and mean
household income of N52,606. The result shows a mean extension
effectiveness of 20.3%. This is low compared to a recommended
effectiveness of over 80% by World Health Organization. The study
shows that Farmers with the highest TFP index between 4.081 to
5.15 have the least average RMP of 15.8%. Linear function was
selected as the lead equation which indicates that; malaria
prevalence rate, education, age, household income, cost of malaria
treatment, distance to health centers and type of health service
providers are significant and contributed to the malaria incidence on
farm productivity of the farmers. The study recommends the use of
mosquito treated bed-nets to be equitably distributed to the
farmers and other malaria prevention measures should be
encouraged through effective health extension services in the study
area.