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Does the farm size influence the commercial production of African indigenous vegetables? a study on smallholder farmers in bobasi sub-county, Kisii County, Kenya
Abstract
The production of African Indigenous Vegetables (AIVs) is of significant importance for smallholder farmers in Bobasi Sub-county, Kisii County, Kenya, contributing to food security, nutrition, and income improvement. However, its predominant focus remains on subsistence farming. This study investigates the influence of farm size on the commercial production of AIVs among smallholder farmers in the region. Employing a descriptive survey research design, the study targeted 6,341 smallholder commercial AIV farmers from two wards in Bobasi Sub-County, with an accessible population of 2,363 commercial AIV farmers. Through proportionate random sampling, 154 commercial AIV farmers were selected from two purposively selected wards. Data collection utilized a semi-structured questionnaire, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. The research instruments were validated by experts from Egerton University and Kisii University, and their reliability was confirmed through a pilot study in Kitutu Chache South Sub-County, Nyakoe Ward, yielding a reliability coefficient of 0.745. Descriptive statistics were employed for data analysis using SPSS version 25. The AIVs under study were Spider plant (Chinsaga), Black nightshade (Rinagu), Cowpeas (Egesare), and Amaranth (Emboga). Moreover, income level influences farm size for AIV production, with 85% agreeing that farm size significantly impacts their decision to engage in commercial AIV production. Based on these findings, the study recommends targeted interventions to support smallholder farmers in optimizing land use for AIV production, including access to appropriate technologies, training in efficient farming practices, and improving market access. These measures aim to enhance productivity and economic outcomes while promoting sustainable agriculture in the region.
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References
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DOI: 10.33687/ijae.012.002.5125
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