Gender Disparities in Uptake of Information on Soil Fertility Management in the Central Highlands of Kenya
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Date
2013-03
Authors
Kimaru-Muchai, S. W.
Mucheru-Muna, M.
Mugwe, J. N.
Mairura, F.S.
Mugendi, D.N.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
TJPRC Pvt Ltd
Abstract
Low soil fertility is a fundamental constrain to crop production in the central highlands of Kenya. The aim of the study was to assess gender disparities in sourcing information and preference of extension methods used in dissemination of integrated soil fertility management (ISFM) in the central highlands of Kenya from a comparative perspective. Data were collected from 240 respondents through the use of structured interview schedule and analysed using descriptive statistics, t-tests and bivalent correlation analysis. There were significant relationship ((χ 2 =27.43, df=9 P=0.001) between gender and sources of information on use of animal manure. Demonstration was scored more significantly (P=0.042) by male farmers than female farmers in training on the use of animal manure. There was a significant positive correlation (r=0.218, P<0.01) between number of non-formal trainings attended and reliability of government extension agents on inorganic fertilizers. Resource constrain followed by lack of individual follow up by extension agents were scored as the most critical constraints in dissemination of soil fertility management practices. Extension agents should increase their interaction with both female and male farmers to enhance their participation in extension programmes which is envisaged to improve reliability of extension agents as a source of information on ISFM practices.
Description
Keywords
Dissemination, Comparative, Farmers, Extension agents
Citation
TJPRC Pvt Ltd, Vol. 3, Issue 1, Mar 2013, 197-206