Agricultural Economics, Agribusiness &Agricultural Education

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ANALYSIS OF AGRONOMIC, PRODUCTION COST AND COOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT ON EARNINGS OF SMALLHOLDER COFFEE FARMERS IN RUNYENJES SUB-COUNTY, EMBU COUNTY, KENYA
(Chuka University, 2020-12) Ndirangu, Samuel Gitonga
Coffee is an important crop globally but many farmers get relatively low earnings from this enterprise. This has contributed to many farmers opting out of coffee production for other enterprises which has further weakened the coffee industry. This study was aimed at assessing the factors that affected the earnings of smallholder coffee farmers in Runyenjes Sub-county, Embu County, Kenya and was carried out between February and September, 2020. Data on agronomic practices, production cost and management of coffee cooperative societies was collected using questionnaires from a sample of 384 smallholder farmers and 30 cooperative management officials from the 10 coffee cooperative societies. Data collected on cooperative management and production cost was analyzed using ordinal logistic regression model. Chi-square statistics were used for hypothesis testing for data on agronomic practices in Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. The results revealed that agronomic practices affected the earnings of smallholder coffee farmers. Fertilizer application, spraying and manure application, weeding and pruning had a strong effect on earnings with Cramer’s V coefficients of 0.67, 0.61 and 0.31, respectively. Pruning and weeding had a small effect on earnings with Cramer’s V coefficients of 0.06 and 0.07, respectively. Resource management and strategic planning were significant positive predictors (p=0.001 and p=0.001, respectively). Transport cost and cost of improved cultivars were also significant positive predictors of earnings (p=0.003 and p=0.002, respectively). The study concluded that agronomic practices, production cost and cooperative management affected smallholder farmers’ coffee earnings. The study recommended that cooperative societies should develop a follow-up procedure on the farm level to ensure adherence to the husbandry practices and that the government should formulate policies that enable smallholder farmers to access farm inputs at subsidized prices for increased earnings and reliance on coffee production. The study also recommended that cooperatives should help put up factory managed nurseries that will establish high quality cultivars for farmers at lower costs.
ANALYSIS OF MARKETING CHANNELS, INPUTS AND FARMER CHARACTERISTICS ON TECHNICAL EFFICIENCY OF ORANGE FLESHED SWEET POTATO PRODUCTION IN MIGORI COUNTY, KENYA
(Chuka University, 2023-10) JABUYA LAWRENCE OTIENO
Sweet potato (Ipomea batatas L.), particularly the orange fleshed, has gained prominence due to its ability to adapt to wide production ecologies and yield response to minimal inputs. Orange fleshed sweet potatoes (OFSPs) can produce up to 50 tonnes per hectare, improving household income and nutrition in Kenya. However, production in Kenya remains low, with smallholder OFSP farmers producing an average yield of 14 tonnes per hectare. The influence of inputs, farmer characteristics and marketing channel factors on OFSP production by smallholder farmers in Western Kenya has not been fully studied. This research was carried out to assess the technical efficiency of orange fleshed sweet potato smallholder farmers through analysis of inputs, farmer characteristics and marketing channels in Suna East and Kuria West Sub-Counties of Migori County. A descriptive study design was adopted and a cluster random sampling technique was used to select 225 respondents from approximately 6500 OFSP farmers. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect primary data on input factors, smallholder farmers’ credit access and marketing channel variables. The key informants of the study were OFSP farmers with the assistance of the County government officials from Migori County. The data was entered into SPSS 28 software and analyzed using Stata 15 software. The Multivariate probit model was used to analyze the factors affecting the choices of smallholder OFSP farmers' marketing channels. The results showed that the distance to markets, grading, farmer age, education levels, storage capacity, market assurance, extension visits, group membership and cost of packaging materials influence the smallholder farmers' marketing channel choice decision. The stochastic frontier model was used to analyze the effect of inputs, farmer characteristics, and marketing channels on technical efficiency. The land set aside for OFSP production, planting vines, fertilizer, manure and family labour were the major inputs in the efficiency of OFSP production, according to the model parameters computed using the maximum likelihood method. The technical efficiency of OFSP production among smallholder farmers varied, with the least efficient producing at 36.98 % and the most efficient producing at 99.93 %. Smallholder farmers estimated mean technical efficiency was 78.07%, indicating a need to improve OFSP production by 21.93%. The technical efficiency of smallholder OFSP production was highly influenced by the inefficiency variables like years of farming experience, gender, extension visits, market distance, size of the household, and access to training. Smallholder OFSP farmers produced 8.453 tonnes per hectare with available farm inputs. Farmers can significantly increase the existing level of OFSP technical efficiency of production in the region by concentrating on better use land, use of clean planting materials and hiring labour. Smallholder farmers should be advised to seek services from extension agents and attend training frequently to reduce production inefficiencies. In addition, interventions are required to strengthen the marketing and production capacities of smallholder OFSP farmers.
ANALYSIS OF PRODUCTION, SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND INSTITUTIONAL FACTORS AFFECTING TECHNICAL EFFICIENCY IN COWPEA PRODUCTION, CHUKA SUB-COUNTY, THARAKA NITHI COUNTY, KENYA.
(Chuka University, 2022-09) GLORY, NTINYARI
Cowpea production is a significant enterprise for smallholder farmers in Chuka Sub-County because of its cheap supply of nutritious food and it’s also a source of revenue for the farmers. Despite its importance, cowpea production levels are a fraction of the potential due to low technical efficiency in enhancing soil fertility, agronomic practices, pest control, farm input utilization among others. This affects the revenue levels and food security of the smallholder farmers. This research aimed to analyze the production, socio-economic and institutional factors that affect smallholder farmers’ technical efficiency on cowpea production in Chuka Sub-County, Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya. Cross-sectional data on cowpea production was obtained utilizing the multistage sampling procedure from a sample of 389 households in Mugwe, Magumoni and Karingani Wards. The target population was 12905 households. A structured questionnaire was administered to collect data and information on the production, socio-economic and institutional factors affecting smallholder farmers’ technical efficiency. Descriptive research design was utilized to define the socio-economic and institutional qualities of the smallholder cowpea farmers. The stochastic production frontier model that is the Cobb Douglas production function, one step approach was used to ascertain the level of technical efficiency of the farmers, and the production, socio-economic and institutional factors influencing technical efficiency. The respondents’ approximated average technical efficiency was 34%, which suggests that there is a chance of improving cowpea production by 66% through competent utilization of the existing production factors. The model parameters for the production factors approximated using the maximum likelihood method showed that labour, topdressing fertilizer, manure, pesticides and land size were significant production factors in cowpea production at a 5% level of significance. Further age, education, farming experience, extension contact and access to digital financial services significantly affected cowpea production technical efficiency. If the parameter coefficient has a negative sign, it implies that as the independent variable increases, technical efficiency levels increase since the level of technical inefficiency decreases. A positive sign for the parameter coefficient indicates that when the independent variable increases, technical efficiency will decrease because technical inefficiency will increase. The negative coefficients on the farming experience, education, and extension contact variables showed that an increase in any of the variables while maintaining the other variables constant might lead to a substantial improvement in the level of technical efficiency. The positive coefficients on age and access to digital financial services showed that an increment in those variables while maintaining the other variables constant, might result in a substantial decrease in the level of technical efficiency. Thus, cowpea farmers were not producing at their maximum capacity with the existing production factors. This study urges cowpea farmers to boost the use of labour, topdressing fertilizer, manure, pesticides and land size to improve production. For the purpose of improving cowpea production, farmers are encouraged to attend more trainings on cowpea production to add on to their knowldge and to contact extension officers to the highest frequency possible. The study’s findings are beneficial to the cowpea farmers, agricultural institutions and the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperative. The cowpea farmers get to know the factors they can alter and improve their level of technical efficiency while the agricultural institutions and the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperative can add to their information on the level of technical efficiency of cowpea farmers in Chuka Sub-County, Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya.
ANALYSIS OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND INSTITUTIONAL FACTORS INFLUENCING AGROFORESTRY ADOPTION AND MAIZE YIELD IN KERICHO COUNTY, KENYA
(Chuka University, 2023-10) KIPNGENO DOMINIC
Maize is Kenya’s staple food crop. The Kenyan government has developed ambitious agricultural policies and programs to increase its performance and productivity to improve its rural citizens' livelihoods. Agroforestry is among the practices recognized as a technique of contributing to food security and economic development. However, its adoption rate remains low despite its capacity to improve crop yield, mitigate soil erosion, and reduce fuel wood and fodder scarcity. This study aimed to analyse the socio-economic and institutional factors influencing the adoption of agroforestry technologies for improved maize production in selected Sub-Counties in Kericho County, Kenya. The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional survey design. The target population was smallholder maize farmers who have and those who have not adopted agroforestry farming systems. A sample of 350 smallholder farmers was used in the study. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select the respondents. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-economic factors such as farm size, age, household size and education. Data collected on institutional factors included access to credit, extension services, farmer's group membership and availability of research institutions. Data collected was coded and analysed using STATA version 17. A binary logistic regression model was used to determine socio-economic factors influencing the adoption of agroforestry farming systems. A propensity score matching regression model was used to analyse the effect of agroforestry adoption on maize production. The findings showed that among the socio-economic factors, gender (p = 0.000), land ownership (p = 0.012), and income (p = 0.036) positively and significantly influenced the adoption of agroforestry. However, age, household size, land size and education did not significantly influence (p > 0.05) the adoption of agroforestry. Institutional factors such as extension services (p = 0.000), group membership (p = 0.001), credit (p = 0.000), and the availability of research institutions (p = 0.033) were found to influence adoption of agroforestry significantly. The propensity score matching was used to determine agroforestry adoption's effect on maize yield among selected farmers from the overall group. The nearest neighbor matching algorithm results showed that agroforestry adoption negatively affected maize grain yield by -1241.2 kg per ha. It is possible that the adopters did not follow the recommended spacing for the planted agroforestry trees. As a result, the canopies may have cast too much shade on maize crops, preventing them from receiving the necessary amount of sunlight. Despite agroforestry reducing maize grains production, the study findings indicated that farmers increased their overall income through the sale of tree products such as timber fruits, thus accounting for the positive and significance of agroforestry. The findings of this research mean that efforts to increase agroforestry adoption should not only concentrate on improving farm productivity but also on other benefits that can be derived from agroforestry. The study also encourages empowering farmers through credit access, quality extension services, and the formation of farmer groups to create awareness on how best farmers can utilize agroforestry to increase overall household income and farm productivity. Although the current findings indicate that agroforestry did not increase maize production, farmers can still gain from the farming system through the sale of tree products, among other benefits that complement household income.
ANALYSIS OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND INSTITUTIONAL FACTORS INFLUENCING SMALLHOLDER FARMER ADOPTION OF SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION PRACTICES ON MAIZE PRODUCTION, THARAKA NITHI COUNTY, KENYA
(Chuka University, 2023-10) GITONGA HELLENAH MWENDWA
Maize is among the most significant crops in Kenya for food security. Soil and water conservation practices adopted in maize production offer a potential solution to combat climate change by enhancing soil productivity and decreasing soil and water erosion thereby enhancing crop productivity and smallholder farmer’s farm income. Despite various interventions to practice improved soil and water conservation technologies (SWCs) in maize production, adoption of these technologies is low resulting to poor output due to various factors. Therefore, this study aimed at analyzing the socio-economic and institutional factors influencing the adoption of SWCs and subsequent effect on maize yield in Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya. A cross-sectional survey research design was used where multi-stage sampling method was applied. Three hundred and eighteen (318) households in Maara and Chuka Sub-Counties were interviewed from a population target of 5250 using a structured questionnaire to obtain data on socio-economic and institutional factors influencing the uptake of SWCs. Descriptive statistics were completed using SPSS version 28 while econometric analysis by Stata version 17. The Propensity Score Matching model (PSM) was employed on the effects of adoption of SWCs on maize yield while Multivariate Probit (MVP) model was employed on both socio-economic and institutional factors affecting the use of SWCs. The MVP model had positive coefficients which indicated that increase in either one of socio-economic and institutional factors increased the adoption of certain SWCs, farm size had a P-value at 1% on intercropping and irrigation, household size P-value at 5%, land topography a P-value at 5% on intercropping, grass strips and stone bunds, extension and training a P-value at 1% on intercropping and grass strips and membership P-value at 1% on intercropping and irrigation. The negative coefficients showed that increase in the factors decreased the adoption of certain SWCs, gender had a P-value at 5% on intercropping and P-value at 10% on mulching, education at 1% on minimum tillage and 5% on stone bunds, perception on soil erosion had a P-value at 1% on intercropping and irrigation and topography of the land had a P-value at 5% on crop rotation. The PSM model applied the logit regression model where positive estimates on socio-economic and institutional factors showed an increase in either of the factors had an increase in adoption of SWCs indicating 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 negative coefficients indicated that an increase in either of the factors decreased the adoption of SWCs where land size had a P-value at 5% on grass strips, household size had a P-value at 10% on terraces, age had a P-value at 10% on crop rotation and irrigation, access to extension services had a P-value at 1% on grass strips and group membership had a P-value at 1% on terraces. The PSM used three matching algorithms (Nearest neighbor, radius and stratification) to match the adopters and non-adopters that determined the Average Treatment Effects (ATT). Intercropping and irrigation were positively significant at 5% and 1%, respectively. The positive 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. Stone bunds and minimum tillage were negative and significant at 1%. The negative ATT was significant and showed that there was average decrease in maize production from stone bunds and minimum tillage as SWCs at a range of about 50 kgs to 287 kgs and 248 kgs to 690 kgs per hectare, respectively. The adoption level of SWCs was average given that there was low frequency of implementation by the smallholder maize farmers. Therefore, the study recommends that small-scale maize producers should practice more of intercropping and irrigation as SWCs for increased productivity and increased food security. There is also the need for government and stakeholders’ interventions which will enable small-scale maize farmers to increase on adoption of SWCs that results to improvement in crop output and income.
ANALYSIS OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS, AGRONOMIC PRACTICES AND COOPERATIVE DIVERSITY ON COFFEE YIELD GAP AMONG SMALLHOLDER FARMERS IN NYERI CENTRAL SUB-COUNTY, KENYA
(Chuka University, 2023-10) NDUNG’U FLORENCE WAIRIMU
Coffee significantly aids in the reduction of poverty in households, increases the gross domestic product (GDP) of Kenya and generates tax revenue. However, the coffee yields have been declining over the last two decades which is revealed by the reduction in acreage by 30% from 170,000 ha in the 1980s to 108,199 ha in 2021. This has resulted to decrease in production by 70% making it hard for smallholder coffee farmers to benefit from the sector. The ultimate result is a large yield gap between farmers’ actual yields and the potential productivity of the coffee varieties from the KALROCoffee Research Institute, Ruiru. This study aimed at identifying factors (socioeconomic characteristics, agronomic practices and cooperative diversity) influencing coffee yield gap among smallholder coffee farmers in Nyeri Central sub-county, Nyeri County. A cross-sectional research design was used and through the systematic random sampling technique, a sample of 175 smallholder coffee farmers was drawn from the target population of approximately7000 coffee farmers. A semi-structured questionnaire was used for the study with its validity determined by the academic supervisors and the experts in the coffee sector. The reliability of the research instrument was also determined using the split half method. Primary data on coffee farmers’ socio-economic characteristics, agronomic practices and cooperative diversity were collected. The data on socio-economic characteristics, agronomic practices and cooperative diversity were analyzed as descriptive statistics using SPSS version 29 and their effect on coffee yield gap was determined using the fractional logit regression model in STATA version 17. The findings noted that the average farmers’ yields per hectare for Ruiru 11, Batian and SL 28 was 8,593.920 kg/ha, 3,545.277 kg/ha and 1,722.423 kg/ha, respectively. The yield gap estimated was 66,406.080 kgs, 53,454.722 kgs and 38,177.577 kgs for Ruiru 11, Batian and SL 28, respectively. Further, the yield gap index per farmer ranged between 84.99% to 96.90% and the yield gap index per variety was 88.54% for Ruiru 11, 93.78% for Batian and 95.68% SL 28. The model parameters indicated that gender of the household head, schooling years, household size, labour, weed management, disease management, extension, training as well as production and market information were negative but significant independent variables at p<0.05. The insect-pest management was found to have a positive and significant effect on coffee yield gap at p<0.05. The independent variables omitted in the model analysis were found to be insignificant and hence did not affect the outcome in this study. Moreover, negative coefficients indicated that an increase in each of the explanatory variables resulted in a decrease in the coffee yield gap, holding other factors constant. The marginal effect showed the number of units that the independent variable contributed to either increase or decrease the coffee yield gap. The study concluded that the smallholder coffee farmers’ age was 60 years which contributed to increased yield gap while households led by male individuals resulted to minimized yield gaps. Also, the smallholder coffee farmers were producing below their potential as depicted by the large yield gap estimate. Hence, this study suggests that farmers should fully implement the recommended agronomic practices fully and adopt the improved varieties especially Ruiru 11. Also, the Government and other stakeholders should support the extension services so as to increase coffee yields which would result in reduced coffee yield gap.
ANALYSIS OF TRANSACTION COST AND TRANSACTOR CHARACTERISTIC EFFECT ON MARKET OUTLET CHOICE AND GROSS MARGINS AMONG IRISH POTATO FARMERS IN KINANGOP SUB-COUNTY, KENYA
(Chuka University, 2023-10) KAMAU PATRICK MWANIKI
Irish potato ranks second after maize as an important food crop in Kenya. It has the potential to enhance food security and alleviate poverty among smallholder farmers. Irish potato market outlet choice is among the key decisions in every household since it determines the profits attained by the households. About, 90% of smallholder Irish potato farmers in Kinangop sub-county sell their produce to brokers at the farm gate which result in low (12%) gross margins. On the other hand, brokers sell the produce purchased from farmers to various market outlets earning up to 26-50% profit. Farmer’s profits are reduced by high transaction costs and transactor characteristics. This study therefore aimed at analyzing the transaction cost and transactor’s characteristic effect on market outlet choice and gross margins among smallholder Irish potato farmers in Kinangop sub-county, Nyandarua County. The study employed descriptive research design to collect cross-sectional data from a population of 14,000 smallholder Irish potato farmers. A sample of 241 smallholder Irish potato farmers were selected using a cluster sampling technique. Data on the transactor’s characteristics, transaction cost factors, market outlets, and gross margins was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. A multivariate probit model determined the transaction cost and transactor’s characteristics effect on market outlet choice. Gross margin analysis and quantile regression models were employed to analyze the effects of transaction costs on gross margin. The results showed that majority (92.95%) of Irish potato farmers sold their produce to brokers, 4.56% sold to local market, 2.01 to urban and 1.66% to contracts. Study showed that Irish potato farmers incur an average of Ksh. 8265.14 per acre as transaction cost and information search (50%) contributed to the highest cost. From the multivariate probit results, Age, land size, market distance and phone access were significant (p<0.05) and positive on sale of potatoes through brokers. However, information access was significant (p<0.05) and negative on sale of Irish potato to brokers. Information access (p<0.05) was significant and positive on sale of potato in the local markets. However, land size, market distance, gender and extension service access were significant (p<0.05) and negative on sale of potatoes in the local market. The sale of potatoes in the urban market was significant (p<0.05) and positive for age, information and phone access. Contract markets were significant (P<0.05) and positive for land size, credit access and main occupation but significant (P<0.05) and negative for age, information and phone access. Indirect and direct input transportation cost, indirect market information cost direct market bargaining costs were significant (p<0.05) and negative on the likelihood of selecting brokers. Indirect market transport costs significantly (p<0.05) and positively influenced the likelihood of selling through the brokers. The likelihood of choosing the local market was significant (p<0.05) and positively influenced by direct input transport and direct market bargaining costs. At the first regression (25%) and median (50%) quantile; indirect input transportation, indirect market bargaining, indirect contract marketing, direct contract search, direct market bargaining and direct contract marketing costs positively and significantly (P<0.05) influenced gross margins. At 75% quantile indirect input transport, indirect market bargaining, direct market bargaining and indirect market information search costs significantly (p<0.05) and positively influenced farmers’ gross margins. Therefore, smallholder farmer’s characteristics and transaction costs can determine smallholder farmer’s market outlet decisions and profits. Therefore, the study recommends smallholder Irish potato farmers should be provided with adequate information and be encouraged to form active collective action groups to help in sharing information and collective marketing of Irish potato to minimize the transaction costs and maximize profits.
COMPLIANCE TO SCHEDULED CLINICAL VISITS AMONG ADULT PATIENTS WITH TYPE 1 AND TYPE II DIABETES MELLITUS AT THE MERU TEACHING AND REFFERAL HOSPITAL MERU COUNTY, KENYA
(Chuka University, 2022-09) Aburi, Faith
Diabetes mellitus is a global health problem that affects individuals of all age groups. The disease is associated with complications that cause morbidity, mortality and huge economic burdens on the health care system. The burden of DM continues to rise in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) with the current statistics showing a prevalence of 7.1% while in Kenya there is an estimated prevalence of 3.3 %.( Lancet, 2016). Cure is not expected with follow up although symptoms can be alleviated by achieving glycemic controls when patient is compliant. The main problem in the management of diabetes mellitus has been the non-compliance of patients to the management plan. This problem has also been identified at the Meru Teaching and Referral Hospital with 229 patients having missed appointment in the last 3 years. The objective of this study was to assess compliance to scheduled clinical visits among patient with diabetes for management at Meru Teaching and Referral Hospital. Mixed method approach was adopted for the study. The sample size comprised of 74 diabetes mellitus patients who were selected by systematic random sampling and 9 health workers purposively selected working in the diabetic clinic. Structured questionnaire were used to collect data from the patients while interview guided focus group discussion were used to collect qualitative data from the health workers. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS version 25 at 95% confidence interval and a significance level p=>0.05. Frequencies, percentages, means and SD were used for descriptive statistics while Chi squares was used for inferential analysis. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically. From the study the level of compliance is at 71.6% with 53 participants who had never missed a scheduled clinical appointment for diabetic follow-up, while 28.4% (n=21) had missed at least one visit. Majority (66.2%) did not have any general knowledge of diabetes and 60.8% knew of diabetes mellitus complications. Majority of the respondents (59.5%) were females most of whom (28.4%) were aged between 40-50 years. Majority (66.2%) were married and 37.8% of them had secondary level of education. Male gender was 1.31 times more likely to comply with scheduled visits. Participants aged between 18-28 years had better compliance with scheduled visits compared those aged above 40 years while participants who were single had better compliance compared to their counterparts who were either married or divorced. Most respondents (33.8%) travelled for 6-10 Kilometers to the health facility, and 40.5% reported that the hospital location was somewhat convenient. The relationship with staff was rated good at 47% and 41.9% reported that the services were fairly affordable. Majority (52.7%) were generally satisfied with the services offered at the hospital. Strategies to enhance compliance fell under four thematic areas, i.e. human resource, service affordability, turn-around time and improvement of service quality. The study concluded that there was poor knowledge of diabetes and on the risks of missing scheduled clinic appointments, the overall compliance with scheduled visits was low and the main factor influencing compliance with scheduled visits was availability of financial assistance while seeking treatment. The study recommends the hospital management to ensure that human resource is optimized by adding more health workers especially, cashiers at pay points, nurses and doctors, members of staff to empathize with the patients and report on duty in good time and further research is needed with patients, especially those who have missed appointments, to get their lived experiences with diabetes mellitus
Culture as a Predictor of Effective Adoption of Climate-Smart Agriculture in Mbeere North, Kenya
(Advancements in Agricultural Development, 2022-01-17) R. Gikunda1 , D. Lawver2 , J. Magogo
The research advances the existing extension education knowledge by illustrating the relationship between culture and adoption of Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA). Using a sample of 127, the study adopted a descriptive correlational design to gather data that addressed the hypotheses. The sample was selected randomly through systematic sampling procedures covering all parts of the sub-county. A semi-structured questionnaire was utilized to gather data. Independent samples t-test and multiple regression analysis were applied in data analysis. The results indicated that farmers who received climate-smart information compared to farmers not receiving the information demonstrated significantly higher CSA practices adoption levels. A combination of cultural elements significantly predicted the adoption of climate-smart practices. The moderate effective adoption rates witnessed may have been contributed by limited access to extension services and cultural barriers. Among the cultural elements inability of extension agents to communicate in the local language was found to be the main inhibitor to effective dissemination and subsequent adoption. Hence, extension agents conversant with local language should be recruited to break the communication barrier to improve the diffusion of CSA practices. The county extension agents should be encouraged to use a mix of mass media extension education methods so as to expand the coverage.
DETERMINATION OF FACTORS AFFECTING EFFICACY OF PUBLIC EXTENSION SERVICE DISSEMINATION TO DAIRY CATTLE FARMERS IN THARAKA-NITHI COUNTY, KENYA
(Chuka University, 2022-09) KINYUA, FRIDAH
DRAMA-BASED INSTRUCTIONAL APPROACH AND KISWAHILI LANGUAGE TEACHING AND LEARNING AMONG PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN CHEPTAIS SUB-COUNTY, BUNGOMA COUNTY, KENYA
(Chuka University, 2022-09) Kenyatta, Robinson
Effective teaching and learning process is reliant on suitable approaches used during instructional process of a given subject area. Teachers’ effectiveness in content delivery has a definite influence on student concept learning and retention. Language learning is a critical facet that determines the communication aspect between the instructor and the learner. Teaching and learning approaches used in language learning should thus be chosen appropriately to realize educational goals in every curriculum. Learners’ academic achievement in Kiswahili language among KCSE students in Cheptais Sub County schools has been recording below average performance for more than five consecutive years as compared to other subjects. Poor performance has been related partly to inappropriate pedagogies used in Kiswahili language learning. Drama in Kiswahili language classroom offers lenses for learners to use their imagination, encourages adaptability, fluency and communicative competence. This study was designed to establish the use of drama-based instructional approach in teaching and learning of Kiswahili language among public secondary schools in Cheptais sub county, Kenya. The research design used in this study is descriptive survey involving Kiswahili language teachers and their students. Purposive sampling was used to select public secondary schools with form three class while stratified sampling was used to select strata schools; boys, girls and mixed categories. Simple random sampling was then used to select form three Kiswahili students and Kiswahili teachers as participants in the study. 342 form three students and 72 teachers were selected and responded to the questionnaire which was a sample from 24 secondary schools with 2346 students. Data was collected by use of questionnaires for students and teachers. The reliability of instruments was evaluated using Cronbach alpha whereby the value of 0.89 was attained and research items adopted for further analysis. Collected data was analyzed using SPSS version 25.0 in terms of descriptive statistics such as percentages and mean and inferential statistics such as chi-square to test the hypothesis at ∝=0.05 level of significance. Frequency distribution tables was used to present the data. The findings of this study showed that drama-based instructional approach is used and that it is mainly used in teaching grammar and literature and that its use significantly influences the teaching and learning of Kiswahili language. The study also established that a number of factors exist that seems to impede use of drama-based instructional approach in teaching and learning of Kiswahili language such as minimal time allocated to Kiswahili language lessons, lack of resources to instruct Kiswahili drama technique and its comprehensiveness in preparing learners to take part in drama-set activities. It is therefore recommended that Kiswahili teachers should enhance the use of learner centered approaches such as drama-based approaches in teaching and learning to foster learner conceptualization and to improve performance in the subject. Specific focus be given to other areas of the subject including comprehension and composition which though are challenging to learners have not been given adequate focus by teachers in use of the drama-based instructional approach and that teachers be facilitated to enable them overcome the challenges they face in teaching and learning while using drama based instructional approach.
Effect of Applying Organic Amendments and Chick pea Integration on Soil Chemical Properties in Different Cropping Systems In Central Kenya
(Canadian Center of Science and Education, 2018-11-15) Ndukhu,O.H,Wahome,G.R.,Jensen,H.H
A study was carried out to determine the effect of applying farm yard manure (FYM) and Minjingu rock phosphate (MRP) on soil available nitrogen, phosphorus and organic carbon. The study involved field experiments under varying precipitation pattern, soil fertility levels and cropping systems over four growth seasons.Theexperimentaldesignwasarandomized completeblock(RCBD)withfourreplicationsinasplitplot arrangement where the main plots were the three cropping systems; monocropping, intercropping and crop rotation and the split plots were FYM and MRPand sampling done at crop physiological maturity. Soil pH, N, P K and C increased in the different treatments in the following order control < MRP< FYM in the three cropping systemsacrossthefourgrowingseasonsatbothsites.In maizeunderrotationwithchickpeacontrolhad;0.281% N,2.82%Cand10.68ppmP.FYM;0.554%N,4.41%Cand18.24ppmP.MRP;0.45%N,3.6%Cand41.08 ppm P.Maizechickpeaintercropcontrol;0.389%N,3.192%Cand13.4ppmP.FYM;0.531%N,4.98%Cand 41.02 ppm P. MRP; 0.49% N, 4.08% C and 50.9 ppm P. Soil under maize monocrop exhibited; control; 0.2% N, 2.59%Cand11.26ppmP.FYM;0.416%N,3.83%Cand18.01ppmP.MRP;0.28%N,3.13%Cand26.1ppmP. Almost a similar trend was observed in maize and tomato plots at both sites in all the growing seasons. Thus it can be deduced that, FYM and MRP application and legume integration in cropping systems improves soil fertility.
EFFECT OF DEMAND AND HEDONIC BASED PRICING STRATEGIES ON GUESTS PURCHASE DECISIONS IN STAR RATED HOTELS IN NAKURU COUNTY
(Chuka University, 2022-09) Magothe, John
Demand and hedonic based pricing strategies provide hotel practitioners opportunities for adjusting prices depending on, guest preferences, and seasonal changes thus enhancing competitive advantage. Customers are able to compare the offers made by specific service providers in order to make significant purchase choice. However, these strategies are underutilized by hoteliers in Nakuru County due to their overreliance on cost based pricing strategies resulting to negative guest perception about the prices. Consequently, cost based pricing has resulted to reduced guest loyalty and declined purchase since some guests prefer variable prices to fixed prices. The purpose of this study was to establish the effect of demand based and hedonic pricing strategies on hotel guest purchase decisions in Nakuru County. The specific objectives were, to determine the effect of demand based pricing strategy on hotel guest purchase decision in Nakuru County and to assess the effect of hedonic pricing strategy on hotel guest purchase price in Nakuru County. The study employed descriptive cross sectional research design anchored on hedonic pricing theory and buying process five stage model. The target population was 1,792 guests from which a sample size of 276 guests was derived using Krejcie and Morgan (1970) sample size determination technique. Purposive and proportionate sampling techniques were used to select hotels and guests respectively. Primary data was collected using a structured questionnaire designed using Likert type of scale. A reliability coefficient of (α = 0.895) was achieved for the research instruments. Data collected was analyzed with the aid of SPSS (version 21) and STATA (Version 15) software. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the social-demographic attributes of the guests. Effect of demand based pricing strategy was modelled under Structural Equation Model. The estimated model parameters using maximum likelihood revealed that value added pricing strategy (p=0.001) and concession pricing strategy (p=0.004) influenced guest purchase decision significantly at 5% significance level. However, discounted pricing strategy (p=0.112) did not influence purchase decision significantly. Effect of hedonic pricing was estimated under multiple regression equation. The regression coefficients revealed that hotel location (p=0.006), presence of bath and shower in bathroom (p=0.012), service of breakfast (p=0.016), presence of LED television in the room (p=0.004), availability or swimming pool (p=0.015) and a fitness center (p=0.043) influenced purchase price significantly. The presence of conference facilities (p=0.676), internet availability (p=0.117), accessibility of hotel through road network (p=0.376), star rating (p=0.523) and association with a chain (p=0.081) did not have a significant effect on guest purchase price. The study recommends that for hotels’ to increase guest purchases, they should utilize value added and concession pricing strategies. Hotels should communicate the benefits obtained from consumption of a service, involve guests when setting prices as well as affiliate themselves to a chain or have a chain outlet within their facilities for increased guest purchases.
EFFECT OF DIGITAL CONTENT ON STUDENTS’ ACHIEVEMENT AND ATTITUDE IN MATHEMATICS IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN EMBU WEST SUB-COUNTY, KENYA
(Chuka University, 2022-09) Njue, Muriithi
Poor performance in mathematics in Kenya has been of concern to stakeholders in the field of education. The low performance has been attributed to many factors such as learner’s negative attitude towards the subject and use of inappropriate teaching strategies and resources. Educators and government are searching for teaching strategies that will improve learners’ achievement in mathematics. The purpose of this study therefore was to determine the effect of digital content on students’ achievement and attitude in mathematics in secondary schools. This study was carried out in schools in Embu West sub-county, Kenya. The study used a Quasi experimental research design. The Solomon’s Four Non-Equivalent Control Group Design was used to determine the effect of digital content on students’ achievement and attitude in mathematics. The target population was 1500 form two students. Purposive sampling technique was used to select a sample of Co-educational schools in a list of secondary schools in Embu West Sub County,Kenya. From the selected schools, simple random sampling was used to select four schools. The sample size was 154 students. The four schools were then randomly assigned to either experimental or control groups. Instruments that were used to collect data were Mathematics Achievement Tests (MAT) and Mathematics Attitude Questionnaires (MAQ). Reliability of the research instruments was tested using the Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. Reliability coefficient for the instruments was 0.760 and 0.812 for MAT and MAQ respectively. A minimum reliability coefficient of 0.7 was acceptable. Both instruments were pilot tested in a school in Embu North Sub County. The validity of the research instruments was determined by incorporating the expert judgment from the Mathematics teachers and supervisors. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. Descriptive statistics involved the use of means and standard deviations while inferential statistics used were the H-test and an analysis of variance (ANOVA), independent t test and Man Whitney U- test. The study findings showed that during pretest, Mathematics achievement mean score for Experimental Group 1 was higher than that of Control Group 1 but this difference was not statistically significant. However, after the treatment, the differences in achievement between control and experimental groups was found to be statistically significant which implied that use of Digital Learning Materials (DLM) in instruction had a positive impact on students’ achievement in mathematics compared to conventional teaching materials (CTM). Mathematics attitude mean ranks for experimental groups were higher than those of control groups during pretest and post-test. However, this difference was not statistically significant which implied that use of digital content in teaching mathematics had no effect on students’ attitude in mathematics. During pretest and post-test, males’ achievement in mathematics was lower compared to females but the difference was not statistically significant. The implication was that use of digital content in teaching mathematics had no effect on achievement in mathematics based on gender. Mathematics attitude mean rank for Males was higher compared to that of females but the difference was not statistically significant. This implied that use of digital content in mathematics had no effect on students’ attitude towards mathematics based on gender. From these findings, the study recommended that: Mathematics teachers should be encouraged to incorporate digital content in teaching mathematics in order to enhance teaching and improve academic achievement in mathematics. Secondly, the study recommended that teacher training institutions should incorporate digital learning in their teacher education programs to enhance the capacity of teachers to use the digital content in schools.
Effect of Farm Inputs and Smallholder Farmer Characteristics on Irish Potato (Solanum Tuberosum L.) Production Technical Efficiency in Molo Sub County, Nakuru County, Kenya
(Chuka University, 2019-09) Kamau, Pauline Nyokabi
In Kenya, irish potato is the second most consumed food crop after maize. The sub-sector contributes significantly to the country’s food security and generates income and employment to many smallholder farmers. Irish potato farming is an important enterprise for smallholder farmers in Molo Sub County. Despite its significance, smallholder irish potato farmers’ production is constrained by low farm inputs technical efficiency. The national actual production of irish potato is far much below the potential production level. For maximum and sustainable irish potato production to be attained efficient use of the available farm inputs in necessary. Therefore, this study focused on assessing the effect of farm inputs and smallholder farmer’s characteristics on irish potato production technical efficiency in Molo Sub County, Nakuru County, Kenya. Cross-sectional data on the 2018/2019 production season was collected using multistage sampling technique from a sample of 360 irish potato farmers. Respondents in the study area were sampled using purposive and random sampling methods. The study employed a questionnaire to collect the relevant data. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the socio-demographic and institutional attributes of the smallholder irish potato farmers. Effect of farm inputs was modelled under the Cobb-Douglas function form under stochastic frontier analysis approach. The model parameters estimated using the maximum likelihood method indicated that land allocated to irish potato production (0.262), seeds (0.629), fertilizer (-0.299) and fungicide (0.131) were significant inputs in irish potato production at 5% level of significance. The level of irish potato production technical efficiency amongst the smallholder farmers was varied. The relative deviation of irish potato production from the maximum possible production level due to technical inefficiency was determined by the discrepancy ratio which was estimated to be 94%. The respondents’ estimated mean technical efficiency was 71%, which implies there is an opportunity of increasing irish potato production by 29% through efficient use of the available farm inputs. Education, gender, access to extension services and farmer group significantly affected the smallholder irish potato production technical efficiency. The negative coefficients on the education, gender, access to extension and farmer group variables indicated that an increase in any one of them while holding the other factors constant would result in a significant increase in the level of technical efficiency. Therefore, smallholder irish potato farmers were producing below their optimum production level with the available farm inputs. This study encourages smallholder irish potato farmers to increase use of the land, seed and fungicide to boost production. Soil testing is also encouraged to ensure that the fertiliser used replenishes the soil nutrients for irish potato production. In order to boost irish potato production, farmers are motivated to increase their literacy levels, form or join existing groups. Access to extension services can also be urged to improve irish potato production levels.
EFFECT OF GREEN SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT PRACTICES ON PERFORMANCE OF TEA PROCESSING FIRMS IN EAST OF RIFT REGION, KENYA
(Chuka University, 2022-09) Ngotho, Jane
The business world today is moving towards the “Green Concept” and most firms aim at cost reduction and waste reduction in their procedures while reducing the consequence on the environment. Tea production in the East of Rift region dropped from 20.99 million Kgs in 2020 to 17.39 million Kgs in 2021. The output also in the East of Rift region declined by 10.06%. The decline in output has been attributed to climate change which raises global warming cases. There has been rising cost of production which include energy, water, and pollution costs. The general objective of the study was to establish the effect of Green Supply Chain Management practices on the performance of tea processing firms in the East of Rift region. The study was guided by the following specific objectives; to assess the effect of ecological design on the performance of tea processing firms in the East of Rift region, to assess the effect of green information systems on the performance of tea processing firms in the East of Rift region, to determine the effect of green innovation on the performance of tea processing firms in East of Rift region, to assess the moderating effect of managerial support on tea processing firms in East of Rift region and to assess the joint effect of green supply chain management practices and performance of tea processing firms in East of Rift Region. The study appropriated the following theories to elucidate its data; Natural Resource-Based Theory, Ecological Modernization Theory, and Institutional Theory. The study adopted a descriptive research design; a census survey technique was adopted on the target population of 39 tea factories in the East of Rift region. Structured questionnaires were used to collect primary data. The factory production manager was the respondent in this study. Data was analyzed using inferential statistics of pooled data with the help of SPSS version 28. Multiple regression analysis was used to analyze the relationship between the independent variable and dependent variable, a t-test was used to test the significance of hypotheses at a 5% level of significance, F test was used to test the overall significance. R square showed the variation of the dependent variable explained by the independent variables jointly. The results of the pilot study were above 0.7 which is the acceptable range for reliability. The study established a negative significant effect of ecological design on performance with regression coefficient 0.015 and a p-value 0.017 Further it was found that green information system had a positive regression coefficient of 0.094 and a p-value of 0.031. Green innovation had a regression coefficient of 0.251 and a p-value of 0.010 indicating it is significant. The interaction between managerial support and green supply chain management practices had a regression coefficient of 0.456 and a p-value of 0.030 and adjusted R2 of 0.301. The study concluded that ecological design, green information system and green innovation had a significant effect on performance of tea processing firms in East of Rift and recommends that companies should encourage the practice of ecological design since it minimizes on cost and enhances performance of a firm. Managerial support alters the relationship between green supply management practices and performance implying that ecological design, green information system and green innovation is enhanced by management support hence affecting performance. Consequently, this research calls for a more proactive effort from the supply chain managers and other procurement staff on the need to introduce a typical framework for the mandatory involvement all stakeholders in green information system so as to minimize on waste of resources in the organization. On the other hand, managerial support was found to be significant. The findings of the study will form a basis for future researchers in this field of procurement and supply chain in Kenya.
EFFECT OF PERCEPTION, SOCIO-ECONOMIC, AND INSTITUTIONAL FACTORS ON ADOPTION OF CLIMATE-SMART AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES IN IRISH POTATO FARMING IN AINABKOI, UASIN GISHU COUNTY, KENYA
(Chuka University, 2023-10) KIPTOO AMOS
Globally, approximately 62% of farmers have embraced climate-smart agricultural practices (CSAPs). Adopting these practices presents the farmer a chance to adapt and mitigate the effects of climate change. However, in Kenya, adoption rate is less than 30%. In various parts of Kenya, Irish potato farmers are hindered by their perceptions, socio-economic, and institutional factors from adopting CSAPs. This study aimed to determine the effects of perception, socio-economic, and institutional factors on Irish potato farmers' adoption of CSAPs in Ainabkoi, Uasin Gishu County. The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional survey design. The target population was 1500 Irish potato farmers, and a sample of 196 farmers was selected using cluster sampling procedure. Data on the farmers' perceptions, socio-economic, and institutional factors were collected using both closed and open-ended questionnaires. Socio-economic and institutional data, along with CSAPs were analyzed using SPSS version 28 and econometric analysis through Stata version 17. Descriptive statistics were used to identify CSAPs used by Irish potato farmers, while categorical principal component analysis was used to estimate perception aspects on benefits, impact, risks, costs, and profitability of CSAPs, and multivariate probit model was used to analyze the socio-economic and institutional factors. The findings showed that 77.55% of the farmers had not used improved seeds varieties, while 22.44% had used them. Most farmers, 72.44% had not used soil management practices such as minimum tillage and improved fallowing, while 27.45% reported using them. Agroforestry practice was found to be adopted by 46.94%, while 53.06% indicated that they had adopted. Crop rotation was adopted by 56.12%, while 43.88% indicated that they had not used the practice. The crop mostly rotated with Irish potato was beans 36.22%, maize 10.20%, vegetables 8.16%, and oats 1.53%. Additionally, 43.88% stated that they do not rotate Irish potatoes with any specific crop. The study findings on perception showed that four of the perception aspects had more than one eigen values and were retained. The impact on farm variable had the highest eigen value of 4.458, coping climate change 2.180, knowledge level 1.216, and resilience had 1.182. The multivariate analysis showed that various socio-economic and institutional factors had positive relationships and were significant at different p-values to various practices. Land size dedicated to Irish potato cultivation showed a significant (p < 0.05), and negative association with the adoption of improved potato seed varieties, while having significant (p < 0.01) and positive relationship with intercropping, access to income had (p < 0.01), and a positive relationship with intercropping and conservation tillage practices. Extension services had (p < 0.01) and a positive relationship with soil management practices, schooling years had (p < 0.05) positive relationship with conservation tillage, credit access had significant (p < 0.01) positive relationship with minimum tillage, group membership had (p < 0.05), and positive relationship with improved Irish potato seeds, while the number of years in Irish potato farming had (p < 0.01) positive association with adopting organic amendments. Based on the findings the Irish potato farmers had embraced various climate-smart agricultural practices, driven by perceptions, socio-economic factors, and institutional support. The study recommends addressing farmers’ perception aspects while addressing their socio-economic and institutional factors to Irish potato farmers to increase farmers' knowledge and awareness of CSAPs. Additionally, governments and policy makers should formulate and implement supportive policies and incentives for CSAP. The farmers, policy makers, and government agencies, stand to benefit from increased adoption of CSAPs.
Effect of Price Changes on Green Gram Yield in Tharaka South Sub-County, Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya
(science publishing group, 2023-06-20) Mathenge Beatrice Mugure1, *, Dennis K. Muriithi2 , Gathungu Geofrey Kingori
Abstract: Kenyans in Arid and Semiarid Lands (ASALs), rely heavily on green gram as a source of nutrition, earnings, and soil improvement, but yield has not kept up with growth in demand. Due to this, the Kenyan government's declared goal of improving food access, diversity, and nutritional status has been hampered in these areas. In comparison to the worldwide and national averages of 0.73 mt/ha and 0.67 mt/ha, respectively, the yield in Tharaka South Sub-County is still too low at 0.56 mt/ha, considerably below the crop's estimated 1.5 mt/ha national potential. Green gram yield is mainly constrained by fluctuating producer prices and rational producers may only improve yields in response to a price increase. This study aimed at analysing the green gram yield responsiveness to the commodity’s price changes in Tharaka South Sub-County, Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya for the period 2002-2021. The study employed descriptive research design and used secondary data. The data on seasonal green gram price and yield was collected from Tharaka Nithi County Department of Agriculture and analysed using linear regression model and qualitative methods. It was observed that the trends of green gram yield and price have been fluctuating over the study period. The green gram yield obtained during the October November December (OND) season was higher than the yield obtained during the March April May season (MAM). As portrayed by the economic law of demand and supply, green gram price during OND season was lower than the price offered during MAM season. Further the findings of the model showed that price changes explained 25.3% of the variables affecting green gram yield. Additionally, the findings of the regression analysis revealed that yield has been increasing at a decreasing rate as price increases by 1%. A 1% increase in price was associated with 0.47% decrease in yield probably due to reuse of seed. The study concluded that increasing green gram yield requires a supportive price, but this is not a sufficient condition but other support to reduce production risks should be provided. Further, access to certified seed should be enhanced to reduce chances of seed recycling or reuse. The study recommends the setting up of a functional agricultural commodity market for structured marketing of green gram as well as supporting production for sustainable yield.
EFFECT OF PROCUREMENT CONTRACT MANAGEMENT ON OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY OF COMMERCIAL STATE CORPORATIONS IN KENYA
(Chuka University, 2022-09) Njue, Faith
Commercial state corporations offer essential goods and services to the general public thereby handling a huge variety of contracts which necessitate contract management so as to ensure effective resource utilization thus enhancing operational efficiency. However, the state corporations lose billions of taxpayer’s money partly due to inadequate contract management practices characterized by contract cancellations, substandard service and product delivery, unfinished projects and extended contract periods each year. This study therefore sought to determine the extent to which procurement contract management affects operational efficiency of commercial state corporations in Kenya. The Specific objectives of this study were to determine the effect of contract time management, contract cost control and contract quality management on operational efficiency and the moderating effect of ICT (Information Communication Technology) on the relationship between procurement contract management and operational efficiency. Commercial state corporations were chosen because they handle high value procurement contracts which should be delivered at specified quality and cost within a given time deadline. This research was premised on the Resource Based View Theory and Transaction Cost Theory. Descriptive Cross sectional research design was used. The target population of this research comprised thirty-three commercial state corporations in Kenya. A census was undertaken to attain data. The study utilized primary data collected using a questionnaire. A total of 33 heads of procurement units formed the sample size. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to examine the linkage between variables and t-statistic at a significance level of 5% was employed in testing hypothesis. The overall significance was tested using F test. The results of the investigation were presented in form of tables and equations. The study established positive significant effect of contract time management (regression coefficient 0.225, P-value 0.000<0.05) and contract cost control (regression coefficient 0.232, p-value 0.009<0,05) on operational efficiency. Further contract quality management had a positive and significant effect on operational efficiency (regression coefficient 0.032, p-value 0.004< 0.05). The interaction between ICT integration and PCM (Procurement Contract Management) indicated a (T- statistic of 1.334, Adjusted R2 of 0.086 and a p-value 0.014< 0.05). This implied that the effect of procurement contract management on operational efficiency depended on ICT integration. The study concluded that contract time management, contract cost control and contract quality management affected operational efficiency of commercial state corporations in Kenya. The study recommended that the corporations should assess and modify their contract execution procedure to take into account various dynamics and outside interferences that may be anticipated during contract implementation to avoid delays. This study will be useful for policy formulation on contract time management, contract cost control and contract quality management which can be used to efficiently regulate commercial state corporations.
EFFECT OF PROCUREMENT MANAGEMENT PRACTICES ON SERVICE DELIVERY AMONG PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES IN KENYA
(Chuka University, 2022-09) Kinyua, Jennifer
Procurement in public universities in Kenya has been recognized as essential in-service delivery since it affects how goods are procured and ensures tenders are awarded at the right time. However, this has not been the case because even though most of the public procurement reforms have been achieved and procurement policies and institutions are in place, the level of quality service delivery by the universities is still low which is seen to being contributed by poor procurement management practices. These poor procurement management practices in the universities has affected the way they assess their needs, carry out the tendering process and evaluate their suppliers. This study therefore sought to determine the effect of procurement planning, tendering process, supplier evaluation, procurement contract management and implementation of Public Procurement Disposal Act on service delivery among public universities in Kenya. This study was anchored by agency theory, resource-based theory and knowledge-based theory. Descriptive research design was used. Primary data was collected using questionnaire. The target population of the study was 31 public universities in Kenya. The study adopted census technique. A total of 31 Head of procurement department were the respondents. A multiple regression model was employed to bring out the effect of each independent variable on the dependent variable with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25.0. The hypotheses of the study were tested using t-test while the overall significance of the model was tested using F-test at 5% level of significance. The study established a negative significant effect of procurement planning when the procurement management practices are combined with (regression coefficient of -0.267,p value of 0.026<0.05).Further it was found that supplier evaluation and tendering process had a positive effect on service delivery with a (regression coefficient of 1.048 and 0.206,P-value was 0.000 and 0.038<0.05).Procurement contract management had (regression coefficient of 0.030,P value of 0.743>0.05). The study concluded that procurement planning, supplier evaluation and tendering process had a significant effect service delivery of public universities in Kenya and recommends that firms should do timely procurements, do a thorough market survey on suppliers and request for proposal and quotation. On the other hand, procurement contract management was found to be insignificant therefore it does not affect service delivery. The findings of the study will contribute to theory of procurement and policy making on procurement management practices. This study contributes to procurement discipline by providing a model that captures procurement management practices aspects and measuring their effect on service delivery. The study contributes to the body of existing knowledge by providing an attempt to procurement management practices and measuring their effect on service delivery of public universities. Following the information collected using questionnaires and analyzed, this study will form a data mine for future researchers in this field of procurement in Kenya. Based on the study findings it is recommended that; Companies should encourage implementation of procurement planning for the business needs at an early stage in order to prevent delay. for a more proactive effort from the procurement staff and other management staff on the need for supplier evaluation to minimize incomplete projects and measures should be put in place to ensure that firms adopt better ways of tendering and fair evaluation of bidders to enhance continuity of projects.