ANALISIS POTENSI LOKAL DESA WONUA MONAPA DALAM MENDUKUNG USAHATANI PADI SAWAH DI KECAMATAN MOWILA KABUPATEN KONAWE SELATAN

Abstract

The decline in national rice production, despite the considerable agricultural potential of Indonesia, highlights the necessity of optimising local potential through the utilisation of land resources, human resources, government support, and agricultural technology to support the sustainable development of irrigated rice farming. The objective of this study is to analyse the local potential of Wonua Monapa Village in supporting irrigated rice farming in Mowila Subdistrict, South Konawe Regency. The present study employs a quantitative approach. The population for this study consists of all irrigated rice farmers in Wonua Monapa Village, totalling 123 individuals. The sampling method employed was that of simple random sampling. The sample size was determined using the Slovin formula with a margin of error of 10 per cent, resulting in a sample of 55 paddy farmers. The data collection techniques employed in this study encompassed the use of surveys, interviews, and documentation. The variables in this study were local potentials, which included land availability, human resources, and agricultural tools and machinery (alsintan) that support paddy farming. The data were analysed using descriptive analysis. The results of the study indicate that Wonua Monapa Village possesses high local potential to support paddy farming, amounting to 94.5%. The viability of this proposition is bolstered by three factors. Firstly, there is sufficient agricultural land available, which is of a satisfactory quality. Secondly, the human resources available to the farming sector are of a high calibre. Thirdly, agricultural machinery and equipment (alsintan) are utilised in a manner that is commensurate with the demands of farming activities. The human resources dimension is the most salient factor, given that farmers possess experience, skills, and a high level of self-reliance in managing their farming operations. However, the utilisation of land and agricultural machinery remains to be optimised through the following means: firstly, through improved irrigation; secondly, through equitable distribution of agricultural machinery assistance; and thirdly, through the strengthening of farmers' capacity. The development of agriculture based on local potential can serve as a key strategy in enhancing rice paddy productivity, farmers’ welfare, and the sustainability of food security in rural areas.