Rice farmers' perceptions of the impacts agricultural credit

Studies conducted in the field of microcredit often highlight its impacts on beneficiaries by comparing them to their non-member peers. Few of them focus on beneficiaries' assessment of the impacts. However, the opinion of those applying for the product is crucial for sound financial management. This research therefore aims to better understand the perceptions of beneficiaries of agricultural microcredit offered by IMCs in the commune of Dassa. A survey of 108 rice farmers was therefore conducted. The data collected were subjected to descriptive statistics and logistic regression. The research results show an overall positive perception (59.26%), stimulated by the start-up of an income-generating activity, the amount received, easy access to healthcare, children's schooling, and improvements in professional and housing situations. However, although many beneficiaries are delighted, the analyses show that 78.70% of producers are dissatisfied, due to the low amount of credit granted, with high interest rates and considerable prior savings requirements.