Demand for tractor services in Trans-Nzoia district

Abstract

The current study was formulated to investigate into the factors that affect the demand for tractor services among smallholders in Trans-Nzoia district. Questionnaire was used to collect data and about 113 small farm holders were interviewed.

Multiple regression analysis was then used to determine the association between the use of tractors and the various postulated independent variables. The empirical findings of the study indicate that there is a strong correlation between use of tractors and the following: land acreage, the tractor hire charges; though contrary to a priority expectations, empirical evidence of this study show apparently a weak relationship between income variations and the demand for tractor services. The researcher suggests that this might be a reflection of low-income levels of small farm holders. Other variables like age of the farmer; education levels, and their main occupation were statistically insignificant at the 5 per cent level.

The study also revealed several tractor services, which small farm holders utilize. Among these, ploughing activity was the most used tractor service; and 92.5 per cent of the respondents had used tractors for ploughing during the period of data collection. Other tractor services, which were identified, were re-ploughing, harvesting, planting shelling and transport.

Finally, based on the statistical results various policy implications were suggested.