Socio-Economic and Technological Factors Affecting Macadamia Farming Among Small-Scale Farmers in Meru County, Kenya
Abstract
The global market demand for macadamia has surged significantly over the past two decades, driven by its exceptional nutritional value. This surge has led many farmers to diversify into macadamia farming. However, a considerable number of small-scale farmers in Africa are yet to realize optimal returns. This study examined the socio-economic and technological factors affecting macadamia farming among small-scale farmers in Meru County, Kenya. The research utilized a descriptive survey research design, employing the stratified sampling technique to select respondents, with the four wards of Central Imenti sub-county serving as the strata. The sample size of 98 respondents was proportionally distributed across the four wards, and a simple random sampling technique was employed for their selection. The data instruments included observation schedule, interview schedule and questionnaires. The analysis of quantitative data employed descriptive statistics, while thematic analysis was used for qualitative data. Cobb-Douglas production function was used to test the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. The findings indicated that social, economic and technological factors affect macadamia farming. Significant social factors include household size, education level, marital status and gender. Significant economic factors encompass household income, farm size, number of macadamia trees, access to credit, labour and market type. Significant technological factors include cultivation of improved varieties, pesticides usage, application of inorganic and organic fertilizers, irrigation practices and access to agricultural technology extension. The study recommends that macadamia farmers in the study area should form a cooperative society which can assist in offering credit to farmers. Additionally, the study recommends that the county Government of Meru should avail adequate access to certified seedlings. Further, the study recommends that extension officers should work collaboratively with macadamia farmers to boost the adoption of technology, ultimately leading to increased yields
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