Experts' Opinion on Aging Kenyan Farm Managers: Impact on the Future of Agriculture
Loading...
Date
2012-09
Authors
Nyairo, N.M.
Bett, E.K.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Tropentag
Abstract
Agriculture is the mainstay of Kenya's economy contributing greatly to GDP and absolutely
to food security. There is growing evidence of youth avoidance of participation in the
agricultural sector evidenced by mass migration to urban areas. This study seeks to investigate
these assertions and to suggest policy actions that may applied to reverse the trend.
An agricultural experts' opinion on the future participation of youth in Kenya's agriculture
are analysed in view of the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) and Kenya's Vision
2030. A cross-cutting agenda in both the MDG and the Kenya's Vision 2030 is ensuring
greater food security, among other development priorities. The results from this qualitative
analysis suggest that potential young farmers' «35) participation in agriculture is mainly
threatened by the growing expectation of better opportunities in urban areas. As a remedy,
the results suggest that relevant and quality agricultural programs, particularly tertiary
agriculture education is likely to positively contribute to influence a change of attitude
towards agriculture. Other factors however are evident from the analysis. First, most farm
household heads are reluctant to hand over the farms to potential heirs. In effect, this
discourages <35 potential farmers from developing interest in farming. Secondly, farming
as an activity has not been well promoted as an enterprising activity attractive to young
potential farmers. Therefore, it is evident that aggressive national programs need to be
launched in order include the youth in agriculture for the year 2050 and beyond if the
future of Kenya's agriculture will have to remain competitive.
Description
Keywords
Aging farm managers, Agriculture, Kenya, Millennium development goals