10th International Research Conference Proceedings Chuka University, 2023

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An investigation into the effectiveness of digital technologies on environmental sustainability in TVET institutions in Kenya
(Chuka University, 2024) Kariuki, W. Pauline
Digital technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), big data analytics, mobile technologies, IoT, and social platforms have generated positive improvements in education, society, and industries. Digital technologies are also increasingly deployed in improving environmental sustainability. Companies are now introducing new products and platforms based on digital technologies used to ameliorate environmental sustainability. Goralski and Tan highlighted AI-based technologies such as Smart Water Management Systems, Plant Village, and Peter Ma’s innovative use of AI for identifying waterborne diseases that have infested waters. Balogun et al. conducted a study on implementing digitalization for improving environmental sustainability. There exists a gap due to the limited policy and regulatory reforms to facilitate the effectiveness of implementing digital technologies for environmental sustainability. Lack of frameworks to promote the usage of digital technologies. This study sought to investigate on the effectiveness of digital technologies on the environmental sustainability in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Institutions in Kenya. A quantitative research design was used in this study. The researcher used the simple random, Purposive, and Convenient technique of Trainers and trainees from TVET Institutions who added up to 100 trainees and 200 trainers as respondents. The relationship between the variables was established through correlation analysis. Regression analysis and ANOVA were used. The respondents were asked to state whether the TVET institutions have policies on the use of digital technologies on environmental sustainability 65% agreed, 25% strongly agreed, 5% strongly disagreed, 4% disagreed and only 1% was neutral. As to whether digital technologies contribute to environmental suitability 20% agreed, 12% strongly while only 68 strongly disagreed. Further, on whether the TVET Institutions have frameworks to promote the usage of digital technologies: 15% agreed, 35% strongly agreed, 44% strongly disagreed and 4% disagreed. Only 2% were neutral. The study recommended that TVET Institutions develop policies on digital technologies, develop frameworks on the usage of digital technologies also promote awareness of the contribution of digital transformation to environmental sustainability. The study concluded that to increase the effectiveness of digital technologies on environmental sustainability TVET institutions should encompass the policy development on the training on the use of digital technologies for environmental sustainability.
Analysis of production, socio-economic and institutional factors affecting technical efficiency of smallholder banana producers in Kirinyaga central sub-county, Kenya.
(Chuka University, 2024) Mativa Jackson Mkenye; Carolyne A. Omukoko; Jafford N. Rithaa; Geofrey K. Gathungu
Banana provides food, nutrition security and income for most households and is fourth most popular food crop in the world after wheat, maize and rice. Despite its significance, full potential of banana production in Kenya remains unexploited by smallholder farmers due to low technical efficiency especially in utilization of farming inputs due to production, socio-economic and institutional issues among others. In Kirinyaga County, the actual banana production is at 4-18 tonnes per acre against the potential of 30-40 tonnes. Despite the limited supply of resources for production, attainment of highest possible levels of technical efficiency is key to achieving sufficiency in banana farming. The study analyzed the effects of production, socio-economic and institutional factors on technical efficiency among smallholder banana producers in Kirinyaga Central Sub-County, Kenya. A cross-sectional research design was used. Questionnaire was administered randomly to 402 respondents selected using multi-stage sampling technique and data analyzed using Stata version 17 and SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics described the production, socio-economic and institutional factors. A stochastic frontier analysis approach was used to model the efficiency levels using Cobb - Douglas functional form estimated using the maximum likelihood technique. The study showed that technical efficiency varied between 0.93% to 95.45% and average technical efficiency of 83.14%. The study found that manure and planting materials had positive effects on technical efficiency whereas land size had negative impact. The findings established that age of decision maker and size of the household had negative effects whereas education, experience, farmer group membership and market access had positive effects on technical efficiency. The study advises persons with high levels of education to get into banana farming because smallholder farmers with greater levels of education demonstrated high levels of production efficiency. Additionally, to improve efficiencies, farmer group development and membership are encouraged and also extension services made more accessible.
Analysis of technical efficiency on orange fleshed sweet potatoes production among the smallholder farmers in migori county kenya
(Chuka University, 2024) Lawrence O. Jabuya; Shelmith W. Munyiri; Martin K. Njogu; Dave M. Ireri
Sweet potatoes (Ipomea batatas L.), particularly the orange fleshed variety, have become increasingly popular due to their ability to thrive in various environmental conditions with minimal inputs. Orange fleshed sweet potatoes (OFSPs) show potential for productivity, yet smallholder farmers in Kenya still struggle to maximize their yields. The factors influencing OFSP production efficiency among these farmers in Western Kenya have not been thoroughly examined. This study evaluated the technical efficiency of OFSP production among smallholder farmers in Migori County. Using a descriptive research design, a sample of 225 OFSP farmers was randomly selected by a cluster sampling technique. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire on inputs and selected socio-economic factors. The data was then entered into SPSS software, and analysis was done using the frontier stochastic model in STATA. Smallholder farmers estimated mean technical efficiency was 77.82%, indicating a need to improve OFSP production by 22.18%. These findings suggest that to reduce inefficiencies among smallholder OFSP farmers, targeted training programs are needed to enhance farmers' agronomic knowledge specific to OFSP production. Further, policy interventions should prioritize the provision of extension services to support and improve the performance of OFSP smallholder farmers.
Climate-Resilient Hay Production in Kajiado County: Leveraging Adaptive Cultivation Practices and Public-Private Partnerships for Drought Risk Reduction
(Chuka University, 2024) Kimaru, Judy; Mutembei Henry
This study investigates the viability of climate-resilient hay production in Kajiado County, leveraging adaptive cultivation practices and public-private partnerships to reduce drought risks. The study's methodology employs a non- experimental research design with a cross-sectional approach, including a literature review and a cost-benefit analysis of 23 hay farms. The literature review emphasizes the crucial role of fodder production in supporting livestock nutrition and ensuring food security in Kenya's rangelands. Challenges faced by pastoralist communities, such as marginalization and conflicts over resources, are discussed, as well as obstacles in the fodder value chain, including high input costs and poor seed quality. Cost-benefit analysis of hay production practices reveals a significant annual hay deficit in Kajiado Central County, prompting the need for enhanced local hay production to meet high demand during severe droughts. Differences in hay production practices between livestock keepers and farmers highlight the importance of tailored interventions and support for both groups. Strategic partnerships and commercial hay production ventures are suggested to address hay demand during critical periods. The study also explores the profitability of hay production practices, showing promising returns on investment for those adopting low-technology and cost-effective approaches. Flexible management strategies are essential for mitigating losses during no-sale years caused by adverse events like abundant rainfall or wildfires. Collaborative approaches, shared machinery facilities, and cooperative arrangements are proposed to optimize machinery usage and reduce financial burdens on individual farmers. Sustainable water management practices are emphasized to reduce irrigation costs and promote environmentally friendly hay production. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the potential of hay production as a valuable drought risk reduction strategy and recommends proper management, strategic decision-making, and collaborative efforts between public and private sectors to enhance the resilience and profitability of hay production in arid regions. By adopting the recommended practices, hay production can contribute to food security, livelihoods, and sustainable agricultural practices in Kajiado County and beyond
Cost of inputs influencing indigenous chicken egg production in Tharaka Sub-County, Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya
(Chuka University, 2024) Chelangat, S. P.; Kinyua, J.; Gichure, M.
Poultry farming contributes to Kenya’s food and economic security. It provides a living for 70% of Kenyans by providing meat, eggs, and income. Indigenous chicken (IC) dominates poultry production in Kenya and is primarily kept in rural areas due to low economic rearing costs. Yet, IC’s egg production is low, laying 45 eggs/hen/year compared to its potential of 165 eggs/hen/year. Low and poor-quality feeds and disease management practices have been associated with low egg production. This study used a cross-sectional survey to establish the impact of the cost of inputs on IC egg production in Tharaka Sub-County, Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya. A structured questionnaire was used to collect primary data from a clustered simple random sample of 246 IC farmers from Gatunga, Mukothima, Nkondi, Chiakariga, and Marimanti wards of Tharaka Sub-County. The data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics using STATA software version 17. Descriptive statistics were means, standard deviations, and proportions. A Stochastic Frontier production model was fitted to predict the influence of the cost of inputs on IC’s clutch sizes. The results showed that higher treatment expenditure (β = 0.0003, t = 29.01, p < .001) and commercial feeds (β = 0.005, t = 46.80, p < 0.01) were associated with higher clutch at a 1% significance level. IC produced an average clutch size of 18.6 with commercial feeds compared to 16.6 with local feeds. Poultry diseases adversely influence chickens’ physiological processes, such as impaired growth and feed utilisation decreasing egg production. Commercial feeds have nutrients such as protein, for egg yolk and albumen formation, calcium, and phosphorus essential for eggshell formation. Contrarily, local feeds may not have the balanced nutrients. Therefore, low cost of commercial feeds and disease treatment decreases the cost of egg production. Thus, IC farmers should use commercial feeds to increase egg production. Besides, the county should support IC farmers to control diseases through financing to improve egg production.
Determinants of market outlet choice among smallholder Irish potato farmers in Kinangop Sub-County, Nyandarua County, Kenya.
(Chuka University, 2024) Kamau, P. M.; Oloo-Abucheli, G. O.; Kiramana, J. K.
The market outlet choice is among the key decisions in every farming household since the outlet chosen determines the profits accrued to the individual household. However, smallholder Irish potato farmers face challenges reaching their preferred outlets in Kenya. The research therefore, examined the determinants of market outlet choice among smallholder Irish potato farmers. A descriptive research design was employed to collect cross-sectional data on the year 2022 crop season from sampled 241 smallholder Irish potato growers. Smallholder Irish potato farmers were identified through cluster sampling and interviewed using a semi-structured pretested questionnaire. A multivariate probit model was used to investigate the determinants of market choices. The study revealed that 92.95% of smallholder Irish potato farmers sold their produce to brokers. The likelihood of smallholder farmers choosing the brokers was significantly influenced by land size, market distance, and phone access. Selecting the local market was significantly influenced by land size, gender, information access, market distance, extension, and phone access. The likelihood of choosing urban markets was significantly influenced by age, information, and phone access. The probability of selecting the contracts was influenced significantly by age, market distance, information, credit and phone access, and primary occupation. Therefore, the study recommends agricultural extension agents disseminate relevant information to smallholder Irish potato farmers to facilitate informed decisions when selling their produce
Determinants of youth participation in agribusiness in nyeri county, Kenya.
(Chuka University, 2024) Maina, Loise C.; Rithaa, J.N.; Chege, S. M.; Gathungu G.K.
Involvement of youth in agribusiness has become a vital strategy for eradicating poverty and creating employment opportunities for Kenyan youth. However, their participation in the sector is still not satisfactory. The study asses sed the factors that influence youth participation in agribusiness in Mathira Constituency, Nyeri County. A sample of 288 youths was obtained through a stratified random sampling technique. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data on factors influencing youth participation in agribusiness. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and a binary logit regression model. The results demonstrated that among the factors, age(p=0.005), gender (p=0.007), access to land (p=0.000), access to markets(p=0.014) access to agribusiness training(p=0.001), access to credit (p=0.021), access of agribusiness information(p=0.002) and had a significant and positive relationship with agribusiness participation. Youths’ engagement in agricultural e-commerce (p=0.011) had a significant and negative relationship with youths’ decision to participate in agribusiness. However, income, education level, household size, group membership, availability of modern farming technologies, access to the internet, and distance to output and input markets did not significantly (p >0.05) influence the participation of the youth in agribusiness. According to the findings, there is a need to avail agribusiness information and training to the youths to increase their chances of uptake of agriculture as a business. The study also encourages empowering youths through credit access, land access and agricultural market access to increase youths’ involvement in commercial agriculture. This will help resolve the challenges of rising unemployment and poverty rates among Kenya's growing youth population and also help achieve food security.
Effectiveness of primary school co-curricular activities in instilling democratic values among pupils in public primary schools in Igembe south sub-county. A critique based on john rawls theory of justice
(Chuka University, 2024) Priscilla Mwonjiru Kailikia; John Mwithalii Kamoyo; Fredrick Ogola
This study focused on the effectiveness of primary school co-curricular activities in instilling democratic values among pupils in public primary schools in Igembe south sub-county. A critique based on John Rawls theory of justice. The study adopted descriptive survey research design. The target population was 6700 comprising of 5950 standard seven pupils and 750 teachers in public primary schools in Igembe South Sub-County. Simple random sampling was used to select 325 pupils while purposive sampling was used to select 45 teachers forming a total sample of 370 respondents. Data was collected using questionnaires. Collected data was cleaned, coded and entered in the computer for analysis using SPSS version 21. The study used Quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data was analyzed using frequencies and percentages. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically. The findings of the study revealed that Primary school co-curriculum activities were found relevant in instilling democratic value of socio-economic equality highlighted in the John Rawls theory of justice. The study further revealed that co-curricular activities promoted democratic value of equal liberty among pupils because they inculcate culture of sharing. Based on this, the study recommended that, head teachers ought to emphasize on the importance of pupils’ participation in co-curriculum activities in the process of curriculum implementation and supervision. This is because the study has exposed that co-curriculum activities are significant in enhancing democratic values.
Effects of government policy on the relationship between project management practices and sustainability of agribusiness projects in Kenya
(Chuka University, 2024) Kabethi, Joseph Miano; Ngugi Lucy; Maingi James.
Government policy as expressed in laws, rules, regulations and guidelines pervades all spheres of human life. The underlying conviction is that government policy promotes the best interest of society and provides an orderly way for attainment of a predetermined end. In Kenya, many agribusiness projects are designed and implemented within the purview of existing government policies to address the challenges affecting the farming enterprise. The effects of government policies on predetermined project objectives in agribusiness projects including sustainability remains largely unknown. The study sought to establish the effects of government policy on the relationship between known project management practices and sustainability of Kenya Agricultural Productivity and Agribusiness Projects (KAPAP) in selected Counties in Kenya. The project management practices which were considered as independent variables were; capacity building practices, stakeholder’s management practices, project design practices and monitoring and evaluation practices. The population comprised of 6401 KAPAP projects implemented between years 2012 to 2015. A sample of 376 was selected through multistage random sampling methods. Data was collected using a semi structured questionnaire. Multiple linear regression models were applied in data analysis. From the findings, it was established that each of the four project management practices statistically significantly had an influence on the sustainability of KAPAP projects. The proportion of joint explanation of dependent variable (PS) by the independent variables (PMPs) improved on inclusion of government policy as a moderating variable. This confirmed that government policy statistically significantly moderated the relationship between the project management practices and project sustainability. From these findings, the project management practices can be used to reliably predict project sustainability and this prediction is enhanced by implementation of government policies. The study recommends for consideration of government policy for attainment of project objectives including sustainability
Impact of adoption of risk management strategies on milk production among smallholder dairy cattle farmers in Meru County, Kenya.
(Chuka University, 2024) Mutuma, G. M.; Kinyua, J. M.; Gichure, M. N.,; Mwangi, D. I.
A majority of smallholder dairy cattle farmers make their income primarily from milk production. The dairy sector contributes 14% of Kenya's agricultural GDP. The SDC farmers face a number of risks throughout the process of milk production. These include environmental, economic, and social factors; that are caused by production, marketing, and finance activity. The ramifications of the risks have not been addressed, and risk mitigation strategies have not been applied correctly. The study was conducted to determine the impact of adoption of risk management strategies in milk production among smallholder dairy cow farmers in Imenti South Sub County, Meru County, Kenya. Propensity score matching regression model was used to investigate the impact of risk management strategies adoption on milk output. The results showed that adoption of vaccination, insurance and milk preservation were statistically significant in improving milk production. However, off-farm investment and diversification were statistically insignificant in improving milk production. This was due to the fact that there would be divided attention and less time allocation on milk production if the farmer adopted off-farm investment. Limited land size factor affected the adopted diversification since the farmer will allocated more land to one enterprise example crop production hence limiting the other which is dairy cattle production. The results will provide baseline data for prospective risk analysis studies on smallholder dairy farming enterprise. Findings of this study will enable the dairy cattle farmers to understand the impact risk has on their production and the benefit of adopting risk management strategies in order to increase productivity.
Impact of adoption of soil and water conservation practices on maize yield in Tharaka Nithi County
(Chuka University, 2024) Gitonga, M. Hellena; Gathungu, K. Geoffrey; Nderitu, W. Peris; Ireri, David
Maize is one of the most significant crops for the Kenyan population. Adoption of soil and water conservation practices on maize offers a solution to curb climate change dangers by enhancing increased crop production and improving soil quality. Maize yield is low compared to its potential which is caused by factors like poor agronomic practices, drought, low soil fertility and low use of soil technology practices. This study therefore aimed at determining how adoption of soil and water conservation practices as technologies affected the maize yield in Tharaka Nithi County. Cross-sectional research design was used where multistage sampling procedure was applied to select 318 smallholder maize farmers. Data analysis was done using Propensity Score Matching (PSM) which applied logit regression model that had block numbers which ensured that the estimated propensity scores for adopters and non-adopters were similar. The PSM used three matching algorithms (Nearest Neighbor, Radius and Stratification) to match the adopters and non-adopters. The logit model estimates on socio-economic and institutional factors showed significance on age at 5% on mulching, household size at 5% on intercropping, land size at 5% on irrigation, extension services at 1% on crop rotation and group membership at 10% on irrigation that influenced adoption of SWCs. The positive coefficients indicated that an increase in either of the factors increased the adoption of SWCs, land size P-value = 0.002<0.01, P-value = 0.053<0.1, P-value = 0.021<0.05 on intercropping, crop rotation and irrigation, respectively and household size P-value = 0.015<0.05, P-value = 0.040<0.05, P-value = 0.081<0.1 on intercropping, irrigation and terraces, respectively. The positive Average Treatment Effects (ATT) indicated an average increase in maize yield from intercropping and irrigation as soil and water conservation practices (SWCs) at a range between 290 kgs to 375 kgs and 270 kgs to 725 kgs per hectare, respectively. Therefore, there is need to practice more intercropping and irrigation for increased productivity and food security
Influence of parental empowerment and engagement on management of primary school curriculum implementation in Embu county, Kenya
(Chuka University, 2024) Luke Murithi Kathenya; Peter Kimanthi; Charles Kiptum; Eric Mwenda
The researcher determined influence of parental empowerment and engagement on management of primary school curriculum implementation in Embu County, Kenya. Parental empowerment and engagement are key concepts that need to be fully utilized; for complete realization of effective competence based curriculum management in Kenyan schools. The concern was that the idea of parental empowerment and engagement are underutilized in competence based curriculum implementation in Kenya. The objective of the study was to determine influence of parental empowerment and engagement on management of primary school curriculum implementation in Embu County, Kenya. The researcher used Krejcie and Morgan sample determination table to determine 364 respondents from 7000target population. The study utilized descriptive design. The study respondents were: teachers, subject panel heads, head teachers and parents’ association representatives. The research tools were questionnaires and interview guides. Inferential statistics was analyzed using Pearson’s chi-square tests. The study established that there was significant influence of parental empowerment and engagement on management of primary school curriculum implementation in Embu County, Kenya. Following study findings, the researcher concluded that parental empowerment and engagement are valuable concepts in management of primary school curriculum implementation in Kenyan schools. Therefore, the researcher recommended that ministry of education should encourage parental empowerment and engagement for efficient curriculum implementation management in primary schools in Kenya.
Influence of Parents’ Drug Abuse on Attending School Meetings in Pre-Primary schools of Embulbul Sub-County
(Chuka University, 2024) Oyieno Ouma Moses
Parental drug abuse is a global concern and a major issue affecting parental involvement in their pre schoolchildren’s learning. It negatively impacts their much needed involvement particularly provision of the needs of children who are at a vulnerable stage in life. The purpose of this study was to determine the implications of parental drug abuse on their involvement in children’s education in Embu lbul Sub county in Kajiado. The study was guided by Epstein’s Model of parents’ involvement. This study adopted a descriptive survey design method. A sample size of 8 (55%) out of14 pre-schools, a similar number of head teachers and 24(50%) pre-school teachers (three from each school) were selected. Questionnaires for teachers and interview schedule for head teachers were used to collect data. The collected quantitative data were edited, coded, entered into a computer and analyzed descriptively using Statistical Package for Social Science. The analyzed data were presented using tables, pie-charts and bar graphs. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviation were used to interpret the data. Qualitative data were organized using relevant themes, presented using direct quotes and discussed as per the research question. The findings in the study established that majority of parents abusing drugs never participated in neither school meetings nor functions. The study concludes that parental drug abuse has a negative impact on parents’ attending school functions. To improve parents’ attendance of school meetings, the study recommended that teachers should provide them with an opportunity to communicate their expectations and concerns.
Influence of selected parental factors on their involvement in their children’s learning literacy skills in lower primary schools in Mathira West, Nyeri County, Kenya
(Chuka University, 2024) Muriuki, N. C.; Ogembo, O. J.; Ituma, G. M
Involvement of parents in their children’s education is of paramount importance for academic and moral development of a child. Parental involvement is however affected by many factors. This study focused on the influence of selected parental factors on their involvement in children’s education specifically learning of literacy skills in lower primary school. Specifically, this study focused on the influence of selected parent’s personal characteristics, the influence of parent’s socio-economic status, the influence of family type and the influence of family size on a parent’s involvement in their children’s learning of literacy skills at lower primary school. The study was conducted in Mathira West-Sub- County, Nyeri County, Kenya. It adopted a descriptive survey research design with a target population of 2882 respondents. Quantitative data was collected using questionnaires from 297 parents with children in lower primary school and 36 lower primary school teachers. A structured interview was also conducted with 12 head teachers. Quantitative data collected was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Qualitative data from interview was analyzed thematically. Descriptive statistics including frequency and percentages as well as mean and standard deviation was used to describe the relationship between the variables while Chi Square was used to test the influence of independent variables on the dependent variable at 95% level of confidence based on the objectives. Results obtained showed that parent’s age, their level of education, family monthly income and family type significantly influences parent’s involvement in their children’s learning of literacy skills. It is therefore recommended that the Ministry of education actualise implementation of parental empowerment and engagement policy to enhance parents’ capacity for involvement in their children’s learning. School Management should organise sensitization seminars to help improve the capacity of parents to be involved in their children’s learning. Class teachers on their part should foster a more positive approach towards parental involvement in their children’s learning to help encourage less involved parents to get more involved.
Influence of students’ council decision-making skills on management of discipline in Secondary Schools in Mbeere South sub-county, Embu County, Kenya
(Chuka University, 2024) John Kariuki Simba; Eric Mwenda Elias; Peter Kimanthi Mbaka
students’ discipline. The study adopted correlational research design. The target population was 848 comprising deputy principals and students council leaders from 53 public secondary schools. Stratified and purposive sampling were used to select a sample of 272 respondents. Data was collected using questionnaires and were piloted in four secondary schools purposively selected in Mbeere North Sub-County. The reliability of questionnaires was determined using Cronbach’s Alpha Coefficient method. The researcher ascertained validity of the questionnaires by presenting them to experts in the Department of Education. Quantitative data gathered was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26. Descriptive data analysis was presented in form of mean, standard deviation, percentage and frequencies. The hypothesis was tested at α = 0.05 level of significance using linear regression model. The study established that students’ council decision-making skills influence management of students’ discipline in public secondary schools. The study recommended allocation of funds to students’ council activities in schools’ annual budget and monitoring of students’ council activities by Ministry of Education (MoE). It is hoped that the findings will be significant to school principals, teachers, students’ council leaders and educational policy makers in coming up with strategies to manage students’ discipline. The findings also provide additional literature on the management of students’ discipline in secondary schools in Kenya.
Likelihood of social statuses to influence access to agricultural information among farmers in Chuka Sub-County, Kenya.
(Chuka University, 2024) Wakoli, A. L.; Mwiti, R. G.; Kiramana, J. K
Access to agricultural information is essential if current global problems related to food insecurity and climate change are to be addressed. Empirical evidence shows that access to agricultural information positively impacts agricultural development by enhancing farmers' adoption of agricultural technologies (Caracciolo & Keizer, 2015). Although research on the accessibility of agriculture information is growing, lack of information exists that show the likelihood of social statuses to influence adequate access to agricultural information among farmers. The study focused on educational level, farm size and farm income as social status variables. These study’s objectives were to assess the levels of farmers’ social statutes and determine the likelihood of social statuses to influence adequate access to agricultural information among farmers in Chuka Sub- County. Descriptive correlational research design was used to collect data from a sample of 377 farmers selected using stratified random sampling from three wards in the sub- county. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data using five-point Likert-type items. Collected data was analyzed quantitatively using the Statistical Package for Social Science. Multiple linear regression was used to analyze relationships between the selected study variables on social status. The study found that 30.2% had a university degree, secondary education (27.1%), college/polytechnic education (26.5%), and primary education (14.6%). The results revealed that the majority of the farmers (37.4%) had farm sizes ranging from 0.0 to 2.9 acres. About 27% owned between 3.0 and 4.9 acres while 23.6% of the farmers owned between 5.0 and 6.9 acres. Very few farmers (12%) owned more than 7 acres. The results showed that majority of the farmers (37.4%) had farm sizes ranging from 0.0 to 2.9 acres. 27% owned between 3.0 and 4.9 acres while 23.6% of the farmers owned between 5.0 and 6.9 acres. 12% of farmers owned more than 7 acres. The results indicated that there was a significant likelihood for farmers in Chuka Sub County to access agricultural information based on their social status.
Mainstreaming Research, Innovation and Technology Transfer and Commercialization for Sustainable Economies (MRIT-TCSE): Complete copy
(Chuka University, 2024-10) 10th International Research Conference Proceedings
Smallholder Farmers' Preference Influence on the Commercialization of Sunflower a Case of Kimilili Sub- County, Bungoma County, Kenya
(Chuka University, 2024) Wafula E.B.; Oloo-Abucheli G. O.; Ngogu M.K
Sunflower commercialization supports smallholder farmers'' livelihoods and economies to thrive globally. It can potentially increase income generation for smallholder farmers and contribute to household daily needs for human consumption and livestock feeding. However, the smallholder farmers'' rate of income generation remains low and are indifferent in allocating their scarce resources among households demanding needs and potential agricultural enterprises. Intensive research on the household commercialization level and smallholder farmers'' preferences was done to promote sunflower production and commercialization. This study focused on determining the influence of smallholder farmers'' preference on sunflower commercialization. The study used a descriptive cross-sectional research design to determine the relationship between variables. A pilot study was conducted in Kabuchai Sub-County, and actual data was collected in Kimilili Sub-County, Bungoma County, Kenya. A multistage sampling technique drew a sample of 288 sunflower farmers from the target population of 16000 smallholder farmers who were randomly interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed using Stata version 17. Descriptive statistics were applied in the representation of sunflower smallholder farmers'' characteristics. The household commercialization index was used to determine the level of commercialization, and a multinomial logit was applied to assess the influence of smallholder farmers'' preference on sunflower commercialization. The study found sunflower smallholder farmers'' rate of commercialization to be 50.81%. Multinomial logit regression findings showed that off-farm income and farmers'' credit access significantly (p<0.05) influenced smallholder farmers'' preference for sunflower commercialization. However, farming experience, household size, and group membership did not significantly influence smallholder farmers'' preference for sunflower commercialization. To increase smallholder farmers'' preference for the commercialization of sunflower, each farmer must take a step in engaging in off-farm income-generating activities, which will help diverse financial resources, meet household needs, and support sunflower commercialization as an agricultural income-generation investment. The study recommends that agricultural commercialization institutions (APRA, COMMASS, KAVES, and RUCOM) support smallholder farmers'' access to credit conveniently as it promotes their preference for commercializing sunflower. Strategies such as a memorandum of understanding between farmers, credit lending institutions, and agricultural organizations can be implemented to ease stringed policies over credit access.

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