Enterprise Budget Analysis of Integrated Rice-Fish Systems in the Inland Valleys of Togo's Plateau Region: Productivity and Profitability

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{ "background": "Integrated rice-fish systems (IRFS) are promoted as a sustainable intensification strategy for inland valley agro-ecosystems in West Africa. However, comprehensive financial analyses comparing their economic performance against conventional monoculture rice systems in the region are limited.", "purpose and objectives": "This study aimed to conduct a comparative enterprise budget analysis to evaluate the productivity and profitability of IRFS versus monoculture rice farming in the inland valleys of Togo's Plateau Region.", "methodology": "Primary data were collected from a sample of IRFS and monoculture rice farmers. Enterprise budgets were constructed to calculate gross margins and net returns. Profitability was compared using a multiple linear regression model: $\\pii = \\beta0 + \\beta1 IRFSi + \\mathbf{Xi'\\beta} + \\epsiloni$, where $\\pii$ is net return, $IRFSi$ is a binary variable for system type, and $\\mathbf{X_i}$ is a vector of controls. Robust standard errors were employed.", "findings": "IRFS generated significantly higher mean net returns per hectare than monoculture rice. The regression analysis indicated that adoption of IRFS increased net returns by an estimated 38% (95% CI: 24% to 52%), after controlling for farm size and input use. This was driven by fish sales complementing rice revenue, despite marginally higher variable costs.", "conclusion": "Integrated rice-fish systems are more financially profitable than sole rice cultivation in the studied inland valleys, offering a viable pathway for enhancing smallholder incomes.", "recommendations": "Extension services and policymakers should prioritise technical and input support for IRFS adoption. Financial mechanisms to offset initial investment costs and training in integrated management practices are essential.", "key words": "agro-aquaculture, enterprise budget, gross margin, sustainable intensification, West Africa, smallholder farmers", "contribution statement": "This study provides the first detailed financial evidence from Togo demonstrating