The Spatio-Temporal Distribution of Periodic Banana Markets in Meru County, Kenya
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Date
2018-02
Authors
Mbuthia, Susan W.
Wambugu, Stephen K.
Kayi, Calvine
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
International Journal of Development Research
Abstract
The spatio-temporal distribution of markets can influence the farmer’s choice of a market
channel. Assessing the effects of the spatio-temporal distribution of banana markets on the
farmer’s choice of a marketing channel is important in providing information that may guide rural
planners and developers. This study examined the pattern of distribution of banana markets in
space and time, and its effects on farmers’ choice of market channel in Meru County, Kenya. The
authors obtained data from field observations, measurements and questionnaires administered to
384 banana farmers. We analysed the data through Pearson correlation coefficient, nearest
neighbour statistic and analysis of variance. The results revealed that banana markets are not:
uniformly distributed, Rn = 0.31, p < .0001; synchronised, r = -0.530, p = .076; and distances
between farms and markets significantly varied from location to location, F = 12.007, p < .000.
The paper concludes that the periodic banana markets in Meru County are not spatially organised
to adequately serve farmers with 47.4 % resorting to farm-gate selling. The study recommends
that rural planners and developers reorganise the markets such that as spatial distance increase, the
time distance decreases. This would ensure synchronisation and promote service delivery to
farmers.
Description
A Research Article in the International Journal of Development Research
Keywords
Spatio-temporal, Markets, Distribution, Synchronisation.
Citation
Wambugu, S. K. (2018). The Spatio-Temporal Distribution of Periodic Banana Markets in Meru County, Kenya.