Drivers of adoption of Improved Maize varieties in Moist Transitional zone of Eastern Kenya
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Date
2015-03-04
Authors
Bett, E.K.
Mbataru, Patrick
Ouma, James
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Abstract
Despite its role in food security in Kenya, maize deficit has increased in the recent years posing serious food
security threat. This worrying trend necessitates careful review of adoption. The paper quantifies determinants
of adoption and intensity of use of improved maize varieties in moist transitional zone of Eastern Kenya based
on data collected between September and October 2013 from 314 farming households. Double hurdle model
was used to estimate the determinants of adoption and intensity of use of improved maize varieties. Many of
the institutional factors: extension contacts, farmer group membership, distance to input market and extension
office were significant in explaining the probability of adoption. Fertilizer use, livestock and consumer worker
ratio were identified as important farm characteristics in the adoption. Age was the only household
characteristic that was associated with the likelihood of adoption. These factors were not important in the
intensity of adoption. Intensity of adoption was explained by intercropping of maize and legumes, ownership of
mobile phones, household size, remittances, confidence in extension workers and availability of seed of
improved maize varieties. Given that different sets of factors determined the probability and intensity of
adoption, considering the two decision processes for the purpose of identifying appropriate strategies for
increasing productivity is critical. The results suggest strengthening of farmer’s groups, particularly innovation
platforms, and extension services. Since distance to input and output market was factor in adoption, improving
infrastructure would reduce transaction cost and encourage farmers to adopt modern technologies. Policies
aimed at enhancing maize productivity and the adoption of improved maize by improving and maintaining the
household asset base should also be central to food security strategies.
Description
Keywords
Double hurdle, food security, Kenya, maize
Citation
Journal of Economics and Sustainable Development www.iiste.org, Vol.5, No.25, 2014