Comparative study on high value traditional crops productivity among common interest group and non-common interest group smallholder farmers in Miwani division, Muhoroni Sub County, Kenya

Abstract

Agriculture is the backbone of Kenyan economy contributing to both Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and export earnings. The Ministry of Agriculture plays a key role in bringing farmers together and educates them on food production practices through various approaches. The Common Interest Groups is one of the extension approaches where farmers with similar interests are brought together for the purpose of imparting technologies. One of the major production areas promoted by extension agents is High Value Traditional Crops (HVTCs). This study was necessary because promotion of the crops are done and for many years picked by farmers who form Common Interest Groups (CIGs) in Miwani division. While other farmers grow HVTCs individually, group formation is common among those farmers with similar interest. CIGformation has been consistentsince the initiation of CIG approachbut the reason for the consistency is not known. This raises question whether there is any difference in productivity of HVTCs among CIG and non CIG members hence the need for this study.The data generated may add to new knowledge and be used by development planners, policies makers to improve on CIG approach. This study was undertaken in Miwani division, Muhoroni Sub-County with purpose of comparing productivity of HVTCs among CIG and non CIG members. Guided by the theory of Symbolic Social Interaction, this study was conducted through cross-sectional survey research design on 120 respondents from 15 high value traditional crops CIGs in Miwani division and 120 non-CIGs in Nyando division selected through proportionate sampling and simple random sampling techniques. Data was collected by use of questionnaires and interview guide and analyzed through descriptive statistics to determine whether there was difference in productivity of HVTCs between CIG and non-CIG members. The study findings indicated difference between HVTCs CIG and non-CIG members characterized by increase in level of technical knowledge, yields, incomes and adoption of high value traditional crops. In conclusion, those in CIGs benefited more than non-CIG members by the virtue of being in CIGs and by them participating in CIG activities. The study recommends that, the approach should be part of the extension system but with some modifications in its implementation.