Adoption of Climate Change Friendly New Rice For Africa (NERICA) Varieties among Farmers in Mwea West Sub-County, Kenya
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Date
2022
Authors
Mburu, Benson Kamau
Ngucia, Christine Wanjiku
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
AJEST
Abstract
Climate change and inefficient water utilization have led to marked fluctuations of the mean rice crop
production in sub-Sahara Africa. In order to improve food security and households’ income, adaptation
strategies to climate change such as the adoption of new rice varieties are inevitable. This study
examined the farmers’ perception and adoption of climate change friendly New Rice for Africa in Mwea
West Sub-county. The study applied the descriptive survey design with questionnaires being
administered to a sample of 376 farmers. Key informants included four officers from Mwea Irrigation
Agricultural Development and the Ministry of Agriculture. Quantitative data were analysed using
Statistical Package for Social Sciences whereas qualitative data were analysed through establishing the
categories and themes, relationships/patterns, and conclusions drawn in line with the study objectives.
Results indicated a highly significant difference in adoption between farmers affiliated to Mwea
Irrigation Scheme and the out-growers (X2
= 18.5, df =2, p= 1.67×10-6
). The study concluded that the
adoption of New Rice for Africa varieties in the Mwea West Sub-county is low and slow. This is mainly
caused by inadequate information among the farmers as well as low market demand for the rice
varieties. There is a need to enhance these rice varieties by intensifying efforts to sensitize farmers.
Description
Article
Keywords
Climate change, new rice for Africa, adaptation strategies
Citation
Mburu, B. K., & Ngucia, C. W. (2022). Adoption of climate change friendly New Rice for Africa (NERICA) varieties among farmers in Mwea West Sub-county, Kenya. African Journal of Environmental Science and Technology, 16(2), 71-78.