Farmers’ perceptions on adoption of Bambara nut production as a food security crop in Kakamega county, Kenya

Abstract

This study was conducted between April and December 2011 to examine perception of smallholder farmers in four districts of Kakamega County, Kenya in adoption of Bambara nut production as food security crop. The study was conducted to determine relationship between the perception of the farmers and some socio-economic factors. Bambara nut, a crop a species only identified and classified as “underutilized” crop. The crop has several production advantages compared to other legumes. Bambara nut, a crop a species only identified and classified as “underutilized” crop and has several production advantages compared to other legumes. Three hundred and eighty four respondents used for the study were selected by random sampling while focus group discussions and interview schedule were employed to gather additional data through survey and correlational research study designs. Descriptive and inferential statistical tests were used to analyze collected data. The findings showed that farmer perceived adoption of bambara nut production was high, but however, despite its vast potential production at household level was low and hence, its the utilization at household level was quite low too. And that; age, labour availability, credit availability, farmers’ income, membership to social organizations significantly influenced farmer’s perceveived decisions to adoption of bambara growing as a food security crop. However, farmers level of education, land size, marketing and provision of extension service did not significantly influence farmers’ perception in their decision to adoption of bambara nut production as food security crop. Overall, it was found that farmers had positive perception towards adoption of bambara nut production as food security crop. However they had a number of challenges e.g lack of certified seeds for planting, lack of extension service information on the crop and labour shortages particularly duting peak periods. To ensure sustainaible increase in production and utilization, there is need for adelibarate efforts to be stepped up by Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries and other stakeholders to provide agronomic information for fomulating and implimenting research programmes towards commercialisation of this crop. This would lead to increased production and assist to fight against hunger and food insecurity. Key words: Perception , Food Security, Bambara nuts, “underutilized” Adoption