Adoption of biogas technology as an alternative energy source in Gakawa Location, Nyeri County, Kenya
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Date
2018-02
Authors
Ikonya, Samuel Ndung’u
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kenyatta University
Abstract
ABSTRACT
This study aimed at evaluating the factors influencing the adoption of biogas as an
alternative energy source in Gakawa location, Nyeri County. The study delved into
the socio cultural factors which influence the adoption potential of biogas
technology; the attitude towards adoption of biogas technology among the small
scale farmers and the role of formal and informal institutions in the use of biogas as
an alternative energy source. Using multi stage sampling a sample of 351 households
was sampled to capture the experiences of biogas adopters and other potential
adopters. Primary data was collected through a questionnaire consisting of both
open ended and close ended questions. Secondary data was accessed from key
informants such as agricultural extension officers, heads of local cooperative dairy
society, and Non-Government Organization coordinators, involved in the energyenvironment
landscape. Data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social
Sciences and results presented in frequency tables. The study reveals that the
household characteristics contributed to the attitude towards adoption. The result
showed that, Biogas Technology adoption was significantly affected by the age,
gender and educational level of the farmer (R2 = 0.045, 0.077 and 0.094
respectively), P < 0.05. The study revealed that 66.7 % of the respondents have poor
understanding of biogas technology. The results indicated the ineffectiveness of
community development officers (46.2 %), and extension officers’ failure to spend
time with the farmers (48.4 %), as the main reasons that hinder adoption. The study
thus revealed great gaps in the extension services envisaged to provide the requisite
information r=.0.228, P=0.0001. The study recommends a participatory approach
with all stakeholders towards improving rural incomes and access to affordable
credit facilities. The study recommends the revitalization of the extension services in
the concerned department and the strengthening of community resource groups that
sensitize the local community to engage in other livelihood strategies that do not
destroy the environment. This is with the aim of making adoption of biogas as an
alternative energy source.
Description
A Masters project submitted in partial fulfillment for the Degree of Master of Environmental Studies and Community Development of Kenyatta University. February 2018