Determinants of Distribution and Utilization of Terminalia Brownii (Fresen) in Eastern Kenya
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Date
2021-04-26
Authors
Kamau, Christopher Njuguna
Luvanda, Alert Makee
Uchi, Sylvia Mwalewa
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Academic Journals
Abstract
Terminalia brownii (Fresen) is one of the drought-resistant treespecies that support livelihoods in the
rural households of Eastern Kenya. The tree is preferred for its versatile functions such as; medicinal
use, carvings, energy, construction, and cultural reasons. In this regard, there has been an increased
demand for Fresen products which include; charcoal, poles, posts, bee-hives, nativities among others.
Forestry stakeholders, researchers among other tree promoters have been at the pole position to
support the propagation of this species through various programs. It is therefore vital to comprehend
the determinants of the distribution of the species among farmers in Eastern Kenya. The study
documents various uses of the species in the study area. A semi-structured questionnaire and direct
observations were used to interview a total of 346 farmers selected through a multistage sampling
procedure. Descriptive statistics and a logarithmic logistical econometric model were adopted for data
analysis. Results revealed that most of the farmers preferred the species for; firewood, quality
charcoals, prevention of soil erosions, poles and posts, medicinal use, and carvings. The size of the
farm, income from the sale of livestock, and the land tenure system were the key determinants of the
distribution of the species. Policies should focus more on the issuance of legal documents particularly
title deeds which will motivate farmers to domesticate the species. Further, programs should be
designed to strengthen livestock production and marketing which serves as a diversification strategy
given the erratic nature of rainfall patterns.
Description
A Research Article in the Journal of Dryland Agriculture
Keywords
Domestication, Livelihoods, Socio-economics, Diversification.
Citation
amau, C. N., Luvanda, A. M., & Uchi, S. M. (2021). Determinants of Distribution and Utilization of Terminalia brownii (Fresen) in Eastern Kenya. Journal of Dryland Agriculture, 7(3), 42-51.