Analysis of Communication Networks among Farmers Group Markets in Benteng Village West Java Indonesia

Abstract

This study reviews analysis of communication networks among farmers groups by focusing on farmers group markets, which "keystones” for local marketing systems.  Through which farmers can make their products more visible in public places, therefore, we find that farmers markets encourage the production of a greater diversity of agricultural products, which would be needed for a more food system for the local community. This study was conducted on Gapoktan Benteng in Benteng Village, West Java Indonesia. (Gapoktan) means combining of farmers groups is one of the government's programs to resolve the problems of production in farmers' groups. This study aimed to describe the role of communication networks among farmers group markets, and to analyze the relationship of communication networks among farmers. This study was conducted by utilizing qualitative and quantitative methods through semi-structured questionnaire and interviews for all farmers' groups members in Benteng Village (N=107). Furthermore, the data were analyzed through statistical analysis (SPSS), sociometric, and analysis of social networks (UCINET).  At the end of this study, findings revealed that, Gapoktan members have been participating in all agricultural activities organized by Gapoktan, such as rice fields, vegetable farming, and fish farms, in addition, there are some restrictions on the farmers marketing to their products, such as compulsory sale of farmers products to crops collectors. The farmers do not have any communication with Customers, majority of them prefer to sell their products directly by themselves. But in general, farmers have a positive impression of marketing with crops collectors, because it is fast and available in time, and reduce the loss of perishable crops. There was also a consensus among all farmers' groups to improve market access which will stimulate them to increase the production, and thus improve their daily income.  The results also were contradictory to that of some previous studies which emphasized that the distance variable was strong, affecting farmers' decisions to participate in the marketing process. Similarly, transport costs have had a negative impact, but not a barrier to farmers' participation in marketing channels. This is due to the fact that the groups of farmers in the Benteng village have relatively good marketing methods and appropriate public transportation, which makes it easier for farmers to contact the markets in Bogor city, including supermarkets.