MMA Theses and Dissertations

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The Influence of agricultural innovative strategies on banana productivity among smallholder farmers in Kirinyaga County, Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2020) Kairu, Esther Kanyi
Increasing agricultural productivity is now a popular subject across nations as a result of increasing population and an increase in demand for food. Consequently, there is an urgency to adopt modern agricultural technologies which will affect the growth of agricultural output, especially among smallholder farmers. The adoption of innovative strategies to help boost banana production is still low and they are not readily visible in most smallholder farms. The study looked at key innovation strategies that influence banana productivity. Key focus being, water management strategies, soil management strategies, and banana plant management strategies and how they affect banana productivity. The study was underpinned by the theory of Diffusion of Innovation. A descriptive research design was applied in the study. Respondents were smallholder banana farmers drawn from three constituencies in Kirinyaga County namely, Kirinyaga Central, Ndia, and Gichugu. The study found that the level of innovative strategies in water management, plant management, and soil testing practices was low. On soil management strategies the study found out that soil testing practices are poor and hardly practiced by the farmers. Other soil management practices such as Mulching and, Intercropping had a significant influence to productivity while fertilizer did not significantly influence productivity. In the case of plant management, a very small percentage of farmers source their seeds from authorized dealers, they mainly recycle the tubers from their farms and neighbors. The study also found out that water management practices such as furrow technique and pumping had significant influence on productivity. Social economic factors such as being trained on banana farming and years of study had significant influence on productivity. Hence, a conclusion was made that farmers who adopt innovative strategies were likely to influence the overall productivity in their farms more so if the strategies are all adopted at once.
The Effect of farmer characteristics on entrepreneurial behavior of beekeepers in Kibwezi West Sub County, Makueni County
(Strathmore University, 2020) Strong, Margaret Mbesa
Agriculture plays a major role in the Kenyan economy through its significant contribution to the GDP, a foreign currency earner, supplier of raw materials to the processing and manufacturing sector as well as contributing to the food security in the country. In addition, the sector supports rural livelihoods through farm entrepreneurship and farm-generated employment thereby alleviating poverty levels in the rural population. Beekeeping is an important form of farming especially in the ASAL regions of the country where there are frequent occurrences of crop failure. The beekeeping subsector in Kenya is unable to satisfy the growing demand of honey in local, regional and global markets, producing 25 per cent of the national potential. The study sought to focus on beekeeping farmers and investigated their entrepreneurial behaviour, in that despite the huge market opportunity to commercialize their farm enterprises, the farmers operate at a subsistence level. The study aimed at establishing the effect of farmer characteristics on entrepreneurial behavior among bee farmers in Kibwezi West sub-county, Kenya. The study’s specific objective was to evaluate the effect of socio economics, psychological factors, group participation, and beekeeping management practices, on entrepreneurial behaviour of beekeeping farmers in Kibwezi West Sub County, Makueni County. The study was guided by the human capital entrepreneurship theory and the McClelland’s human motivation theory. The study applied descriptive research design. The study utilized purposive sampling technique to select 272 beekeepers from a target population of 816 beekeepers in Kibwezi West subcounty. Data was collected using a pretested questionnaire. The study realized a response rate of 83 per cent. The primary data collected was analyzed by applying descriptive and inferential statistical analysis utilizing SPSS statistical software. Data was presented using tables. Regression results indicated that age, education, number of beehives, psychological factors, and extension participation, had a positive and significant effect on entrepreneurial behaviour. Psychological factors and extension participation had high significant influence on entrepreneurial behaviour whereas age, education and number of beehives had a marginal effect. The beekeeping farmers were found to have moderate entrepreneurial behaviour. The study therefore recommends that entrepreneurship development programs targeting beekeepers should prioritize the enhancement of psychological motivation levels of beekeepers namely economic motivation and market orientation, through training and market linkages. In addition, more opportunities for extension participation should be provided, specifically through peer learning via farm visits and practical demonstration of beekeeping management practices – these factors were associated with higher farmer extension participation.
Influence of strategy implementation on the performance of agribusiness firms in Nyanza region, Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2020) Echessa, Priscah Werimo
Agricultural value chain development programs must result in lasting change in order to be deemed effective. The programs initiated either by public or private organizations may meet their objectives while in operation by improving agricultural development in terms of increased crop or animal productivity, improved competitiveness, performance of agri-food chains and poverty reduction. However, sustainability of these development initiatives for impact over time has been a challenge especially by agribusiness firms mandated to continue the sustainability strategies once the previous external resources are withdrawn. Strategy implementation is a critical element of strategic management in an organization. It is the transformation of plans into actions that translate into achievement of an organization’s goals. Despite this critical role, implementation of strategy is a major challenge in many management teams, which has led to high rates of failure in attainment of strategic plans. It is not clear whether the firm elements that affect implementation of strategy and performance rank differently in the agricultural sector. The study aimed at establishing the influence of strategy implementation on the performance of agribusiness firms in Nyanza region, Kenya. Specifically, the study objectives intended to establish whether strategic consensus, firm structure and firm resource allocation influenced the agribusiness firm performance in Kenya. The study was anchored on the Higgins 8-S framework, which states that for successful strategy implementation, key internal firm elements must be aligned so as to accomplish the desired strategic outcomes. The study relied on descriptive research design. The unit of analysis was 100 business managers and business unit managers of agribusiness firms drawn from donor funded agribusiness firms. The study employed purposive sampling in the selection of the business managers and the business unit managers as the people responsible for strategy implementation in order to provide relevant data. The study obtained a response rate of 65%. The study relied on primary data which was collected by use of questionnaires. Data analysis of the collected data was performed with descriptive and inferential statistics and the results presented in tables. Based on the study variables, the results indicated that resource allocation presented a positive significant effect on firm performance than strategic consensus and firm structure which both had a negative effect on firm performance. The study suggested that agribusiness firms require to foster strategic consensus throughout the firm by engagement of personnel in the strategic formulation and have proactive leadership for control and coordination of tasks to support implementation of strategy. Furthermore, firms need to adequately allocate financial resources to tasks directed towards strategy implementation for enhanced firm performance.
Assessing the relationship between resource access and youth involvement in agricultural value chains in Kakamega County, Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2020) Rogito, Jeremiah Magoma
According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics 2020 economic survey, 75 % of the total population in Kenya is youthful 36% of this are between 15-34 years and 38.1% of them are unemployed. Agribusiness has a huge potential in offering employment to the youth considering its wider labor absorptive capacity. Despite this, youth involvement in agribusiness is low due to existing inequalities in the value chain. In Kakamega County, there is a large percentage of unemployed young people, leading to migration from rural to urban centres by the youth. This study sought to identify the relationship between access to resources and youth involvement in agribusiness value chains. The study objectives included; identifying youth’s access to land use, information services and financial services in the value chain in Kakamega County. The study was guided by the Weberian theory of social stratification which implies that to impart meaningful change in society one requires access to wealth, prestige and power. The research adopted a quantitative research design. For this study, the target population was 2453 members of registered youth farmer groups in Kakamega County. The sample size was 240 respondents. Stratified and simple random sampling was adopted to select the respondents from each of the 12 sub-counties in the County. Data collection involved using a questionnaire. Data was analyzed quantitatively using Eviews7 computer software to generate frequencies, means, percentages and correlation which has been presented, discussed, and interpreted in line with the study objectives. It was established that there is a strong correlation between access to resources in this case land, finance, and information and youth involvement in agricultural value chains. Lack of or inadequate access to these resources is a key constrain to agricultural productivity in Kakamega County. Access to the various resources affect the various segments of the agricultural value chain uniquely. Lack of access to land affects production mainly. Lack of or limited access to finance greatly affects the value chain including consumption. Limited access to information services affects all aspects of the value chain. However, it was found out that in Kakamega County, limited access to these resources does not affect the consumption of agricultural products as this is the last part of the agricultural value chain. Hence, youth are predominantly consumers of products that they did not actively get involved in producing, processing packaging and marketing. Policymakers will make use of findings in the study to formulate policies that will enhance youth equity and consequently youth involvement in the Value Chain. Scholars will find this study useful to broaden their knowledge base. Donors will find the study use as it will direct their minds to what segments of the value chain to focus on youth intervention strategies. The study is significant because agriculture is the backbone of Kenyan economy, and a source of livelihood to residents of Kakamega County.
Assessing psycho-social, socioeconomic and institutional characteristics that influence adoption of climate smart agriculture in Taita Taveta County, Kenya.
(Strathmore University, 2021) Godino, Mwasaru Mwaghania
Adoption of Climate Smart Agriculture practices remains key policy agenda in Kenya especially in the wake of climate change and increased food insecurity. This research adopted an integrative approach in examining how psycho-social, socioeconomic and institutional characteristics influence adoption of Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) in Taita Taveta County, Kenya. The study applied the Theory of Planned Behaviour theoretical framework with Multivariate Probit Modelling and Structural Equation Modeling in assessing small holder farmer’s adoption decisions making process to CSA. The study showed there is no significant difference between, socioeconomic, institutional characteristics and adoption of Climate Smart Agriculture practices. Socioeconomic characteristics such as farm income; farmer group membership were found to increase the probability of adoption of CSA. While Institutional characteristics such as extension service, input subsidies and national government support also increase the likelihood of adoption rate among small holder farmers. The result further showed that farmer’s perceived behavioral control and personal attitudes significantly influence, the farmer intention to adopt a number of CSA practices within the household. These results mean that efforts to promotes adoption of Climate Smart Agriculture practices should concentrate on empowering farmers through support and resources mobilization to increase farm income, access to quality extension service, institutional support and general improvement of farmer’s awareness and knowledge to change their perception and attitude towards adoption of climate smart agriculture.
Value of application of insights from Big Data Analytics on transformation of agriculture: case of farmers subscribed to Mkulima Techie Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2021) Okumu, Millicent
The application of big data analytics in agriculture is a revolution that has the potential to transform agriculture from being process driven to being data driven. Transformation of agriculture is defined as a process that involves gradual shifts in the production, from a traditional concept to a modern one resulting in change from a subsistence oriented monoculture system to a diversified and market oriented production system. The objectives of the study were to demonstrate the application of Big Data Analytics, determine the effect of usage of insights from Big Data Analytics and to determine the barriers in application of Big Data Analytics within a smallholder farmer setting. The study applied a mixed methods approach to investigate the value big data analytics has on transformation of agriculture. Data was collected using structured questionnaires from 282 respondents and key informant interviews. The inferential analysis tools applied included correlation analysis and logistic regression analysis. From this study, the findings reveal that there was a significant association between insights from big data analytics and value derived which facilitated transformation of agriculture in terms of income and yield for farmers. For the practitioners, researchers and policy makers in the agricultural industry this study provide guidelines to mitigate challenges in implementation and contributing to the broader discussion on the opportunities provided by a data driven agricultural industry. The limitations also help uncover future research courses in order to achieve better knowledge.
Factors affecting the development of dairy cooperatives in Kenya: a case study of Kiambu County
(Strathmore University, 2021) Mugwe, Peter Githinji
Cooperatives societies are part and parcel of an increasing number of people in formal and informal employment the world over. The study sought to establish factors affecting the development of Dairy Cooperatives in Kiambu County, Kenya. The objectives of the study were to: find out the effect of adoption of technology on the development of Dairy Cooperatives; evaluate the effect of financial access on the development of cooperatives; find out how managerial skills affects the development of Dairy Cooperatives in Kiambu County and; determine how the participation of members affect the development of Dairy Cooperatives in Kiambu County. Grounded on the Social Capital and Resource-Based Theory, this study adopted the descriptive research design. In this study, the target population was 59,635 registered Dairy Cooperative members while the sample size was 398 respondents who were picked via stratified random sampling. Data collection involved questionnaires that contained 5-point scale Likert-type statements. Descriptive and inferential statistics were carried out. In this case, tests such as central tendency (mean), frequencies, percentages, standard deviation in addition to Pearson and regression analysis were utilized. The findings show that the factors under investigation have significant influences on development of dairy cooperatives. This is evidenced by positive and statistically significant relationship between technology adoption, managerial skills & leadership; access to finance; member's participation to the development of dairy cooperatives. These findings show that technology adoption showed the strongest relationship with development of dairy cooperatives. This was followed by member’s participation, access to finance, and managerial skills and leadership in that order. These findings are corroborated by results from multivariate regression analysis that shows that all the IVs statistically significantly predict the DV. These findings lead to the conclusions that the kind of managerial skills and leadership in dairy cooperatives affected their development. Access to finance also affected the level to which cooperatives funded their development activities. Affordable financing and increased member subscriptions affected the success of Cooperatives projects. Increasing members’ participation would also increase their buy in of the development projects of the dairy cooperatives; augmenting their sustainability. This would go on to enhance their development. The study recommends the need for Dairy Cooperatives to have robust management teams staffed with highly competent and experienced managers. The integrity of the firms should be established and regularly assessed to avoid corruption and mismanagement of the finances. Training was also necessary so as to enhance the capacity of managers and employees. This could be done in-house or sponsored in institutions of learning. There was also need to carry out thorough research before starting development projects so as to understand their riskiness and establish the requisite strategies to ensure their success. Partnerships with SMEs was also recommended since it could avail low-cost credit. Member participation should also be strengthened and embedded in all management processes of the Dairy Cooperatives so as to enhance their support of projects. Regular monitoring and evaluation was recommended so as to come up with strategies for correcting deviations from predetermined development objectives.
The Effect of adoption of agricultural sustainable intensification practices on the Mwea rice farmers’ yields and income in Mwea Irrigation Scheme
(Strathmore University, 2021) Ndung’u, Joseph Maina
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of adopting agricultural sustainable intensification practices with relation to rice farmers’ yields and income with the aim of increasing rice yields and profitability and ultimately reducing rice imports in Kenya. The study was quantitative and analysed using descriptive statistical methods, the data collected was mainly quantitative since it was mostly numerical and discrete. The study was a cross-sectional one and survey research strategy was used. The study used stratified sampling method (i.e. adopters’ vs non-adopters) and examined a sample of 400 small scale rice farmers out of the 3,200 active farmers derived from the irrigation scheme. The study used both primary and secondary data and the primary data was collected using questionnaires to guide the interviews on the respondents. Simultaneously the secondary data was mainly from journals, periodicals, textbooks and reports by relevant institutions. The data was analysed statistically by use of OLS model with the STATA software and results were presented descriptively as mean, mode, median, percentages and frequencies presented in graphs, tables, charts, percentages and cross tabs.
The Effect of operational efficiency on self sufficiency of dairy cooperatives: a case study of Lelan Dairy in West Pokot County, Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2021) Maket, Hillary Kipkorir
Dairy cooperatives continue to face challenges on sustaining self- sufficiency despite their fundamental role in improving small holder farmer’s livelihoods around the world. Self-sufficiency is an important aspect of an organization as it determines its extent of independence in sustaining operations without external support while retaining competitive advantage in a dynamic business environment. One of the determinants of self-sufficiency in an organization is operational efficiency which depends on investment and expenditure management and staff productivity. This study sought to determine the effect of operational efficiency on self-sufficiency of dairy cooperatives in Kenya. The specific study objectives were: To determine the effect of investment management on self-sufficiency; To investigate the effect of expenditure management on self-sufficiency; To examine the influence of staff productivity on self-sufficiency using Lelan Dairy Cooperative in West Pokot County, Kenya. The study adopted descriptive research design using a case study. The target population was 5,313 registered and members of the cooperative. The study sample size was 372 respondents. Questionnaires and interview guides were used for primary data collection while secondary data was collected through review of audited financial reports. Analysis was done using descriptive statistics, thematic and content analysis, and Spearman’s coefficient of correlation. The results showed existence of a strong positive relationship between investment management and staff productivity and self-sufficiency. Spearman’s test revealed a correlation coefficient value of 0.600 and 0.700, respectively. Besides, there was a moderately positive effect between expenditure management and self-sufficiency with coefficient value of 0.510. The study limitation was that research data depended on the honesty and accuracy of respondents, but with assurance of anonymity and proper use of findings, researcher is optimistic they gave accurate data. It is recommended that policy makers, leadership and managers should develop and implement policies that promote investment management, expenditure management and staff productivity best practices both at the organizational and country level.
The Effect of farmer chacteristics on entrepreneurial behavior of beekeepers in Kibwezi West Sub County, Makueni County
(Strathmore University, 2021) Strong, Margaret Mbesa
Agriculture plays a major role in the Kenyan economy through its significant contribution to the GDP, a foreign currency earner, supplier of raw materials to the processing and manufacturing sector as well as contributing to the food security in the country. In addition, the sector supports rural livelihoods through farm entrepreneurship and farm-generated employment thereby alleviating poverty levels in the rural population. Beekeeping is an important form of farming especially in the ASAL regions of the country where there are frequent occurrences of crop failure. The beekeeping subsector in Kenya is unable to satisfy the growing demand of honey in local, regional and global markets, producing 25 per cent of the national potential. The study sought to focus on beekeeping farmers and investigated their entrepreneurial behaviour, in that despite the huge market opportunity to commercialize their farm enterprises, the farmers operate at a subsistence level. The study aimed at establishing the effect of farmer characteristics on entrepreneurial behavior among bee farmers in Kibwezi West sub-county, Kenya. The study’s specific objective was to evaluate the effect of socio economics, psychological factors, group participation, and beekeeping management practices, on entrepreneurial behaviour of beekeeping farmers in Kibwezi West Sub County, Makueni County. The study was guided by the human capital entrepreneurship theory and the McClelland’s human motivation theory. The study applied descriptive research design. The study utilized purposive sampling technique to select 272 beekeepers from a target population of 816 beekeepers in Kibwezi West subcounty. Data was collected using a pretested questionnaire. The study realized a response rate of 83 per cent. The primary data collected was analyzed by applying descriptive and inferential statistical analysis utilizing SPSS statistical software. Data was presented using tables. Regression results indicated that age, education, number of beehives, psychological factors, and extension participation, had a positive and significant effect on entrepreneurial behaviour. Psychological factors and extension participation had high significant influence on entrepreneurial behaviour whereas age, education and number of beehives had a marginal effect. The beekeeping farmers were found to have moderate entrepreneurial behaviour. The study therefore recommends that entrepreneurship development programs targeting beekeepers should prioritize the enhancement of psychological motivation levels of beekeepers namely economic motivation and market orientation, through training and market linkages. In addition, more opportunities for extension participation should be provided, specifically through peer learning via farm visits and practical demonstration of beekeeping management practices – these factors were associated with higher farmer extension participation.
Economic sustainability in the floriculture value chain in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2022) Njogu, George M.
This study analyzed the value addition process in floricultural value chain among small scale, medium and large scale producers in Central Kenya. The analysis took an evaluative process and assessed the conversion of inputs to outputs by employing resources that add value during the production process. Value chain in agribusiness is a continuum which starts from the point of production where inputs are sourced and used by actors to facilitate basic agricultural production, activities and successive input from other stakeholders such that in each process step, value is added until the product reaches the end consumer. The objective of this study was to conduct an in-depth analysis of floriculture value chains and their economic sustainability in Kenya. The research used a mixed method approach using quantitative and qualitative data. A sample of 103 small scale, medium scale and large-scale firms was drawn from a population of 179 Kenya Flower Council members. A questionnaire was used to collect general firm data, production data, supply chain strategies and challenges along the floriculture value chains. Data was tabulated, classified, cleaned then analyzed using tables, charts, graphs and other statistical tools. The results showed that supply chain strategies had variable effects on economic performance. The study established that firms that used direct/mass market made higher returns than those that used auctioneers and therefore better positioned towards achieving economic sustainability. There was a strong correlation between marginal cost and economic performance. Despite the significant correlation between the two variables, marginal cost alone was not a good predictor of performance and economic sustainability of floriculture firms in Kenya. However, the utilization of economies of scale in horizontal integration yielded lower marginal costs. In particular, the utilization of performance management as a tool was statistically significant in enhancing marginal cost effect for improved economic performance of floriculture industry in Kenya. The study identified freight cost of floricultural products as the major value chain constrain that had significant effect on performance of floriculture industry economic sustainability. The researcher suggested a need for firms to utilize the opportunity in mass/direct markets, mainstream performance management tool, jointly lobby and seek alternatives to airfreight in order to cement a trajectory for economically sustainable floriculture value chains.
Entrepreneurial orientation and performance of smallholder avocado women farmers in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2022) Korir, Clare
It is commonly recognized that entrepreneurial activity contributes to the development of economies both locally and worldwide. Farmers with small plots of land in developing nations, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, are active participants in agricultural markets such as export and domestic chains. The general objective of the study was to determine the effects of Entrepreneurial Orientation on performance of avocado smallholder women farmers in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya. The specific objectives were to identify effects of innovativeness, risk-taking propensity, proactiveness, and training on performance of avocado smallholder women farmers in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya. The study was guided by the Kirzner Theory and The Social Cultural Theory of Entrepreneurship. This study adopted mixed method approach. This captured both qualitative and quantitative data. The target population for this study was small scale avocado farmers from Turbo, Soy, Ainabkoi, Moiben, Kessess and Kapseret sub counties of Uasin Gishu County. Cluster sampling procedure was applied to select the subjects of study based on geographical location. Convenience sampling procedure was then used to pick the sample based on availability and willingness to provide information for the study. Data was collected through a questionnaire structured to meet the objectives of the study. Descriptive analysis was used to make sense of the data. The data were coded, and then analyzed using SPSS version 21, and the findings obtained presented in the form of tables, charts, and figures. The data collected in each Entrepreneurial Orientation were analyzed in a table to get the mean and standard deviation, respectively. The findings indicated that innovativeness, risk-taking propensity, proactiveness, and training significantly influence performance of farmers in Uasin Gishu County. The study recommended that more research should be done in the area of innovativeness to determine other methods that can help farmers define creative ideas to deal with challenges. The study also recommends that the County Government of Uasin Gishu should have trainings and workshops in place to encourage interactions and sharing of ideas by farmers. In addition, they should share new information, trends and ideas with farmers, so they grow as global exporters of avocados.
Effects of the Central Bank of Kenya’s discount rate on aggregate agricultural lending by financial institutions in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2022) Kinuthia, Simon
Agriculture contributes substantially to the economy of Sub-Saharan African nations. In Kenya, it contributes up to 26% of the annual Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and is a significant employer. Previous research indicates that the sector receives minimal funding from banks, which subsequently limits production. Banks' portfolio lending to agriculture is estimated to be between 3% and 5% of their total lending business with farming considered a high-risk business. Through the monetary policy tools, which include interest on reserve, reserve requirements, discount rate, and open market operations, the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) plays a very crucial role in regulating the flow of money within the banking system. The CBK can thus increase or limit banks' lending to borrowers. However, there is a lack of knowledge on the extent to which the monetary policy in Kenya influences lending to the agriculture sector. Notably, this study aimed at assessing the effect of the discount rate on aggregate agricultural lending by financial institutions regulated by the CBK. Specifically, the study objectives intended to establish how the discount rate’s expansionary, contractionary, and incentives/ innovations measures affect aggregate lending to agriculture by CBK-regulated financial institutions. The study was anchored on the both the Klein-Monti loan-pricing model and the quantity theory of money as these models exposit the factors that lenders consider while advancing credit to borrowers. The study adopted a correlational research design and relied on a time-series approach involving data drawn from the years 2011 to 2021. The unit of analysis was the CBK with data aggregated from 38 Commercial Banks and 14 Microfinance Banks. The study employed purposive sampling to focus on the CBK-regulated financial institutions. The research involved the collection of quantitative aggregated agricultural lending and discount rate time-series data from published CBK reports and other reliable research sources. Data analysis on the relationships between the independent and dependent variables involved both descriptive and inferential statistics. From the study variables, the correlational analysis results indicated an inverse relationship between the discount rate and aggregate lending to agriculture by the CBK-regulated financial institutions (R= - 0.32). As such, a decrease in the discount rate (expansionary measure) would lead to an increase in aggregate lending to agriculture. The reverse is also true. In addition, from the regression analysis, the study also established that changes in the discount rate had a statistically significant inverse effect on the banks’ monthly aggregate lending to agriculture (β = - 1.68) with a unit change in the discount rate resulting into a 168% inverse change in the monthly aggregate lending to agriculture. In other words, by decreasing the discount rate, the CBK can promote lending to the agriculture sector. Lastly, the CBK can adopt the seasonal discount window credit to allow smaller community banks with agricultural lending products to access the discount window funds thus facilitating increased lending to the agricultural sector.
Factors influencing the productivity of hay in Lanet Division, Nakuru West Sub - County
(Strathmore University, 2022) Kinge, Kevin
Kenya suffers large deficits of feed for its dairy sector and there are projections that demand will continue to surpass production due to the fast-growing population leading to an increase in demand for milk and milk products hence more livestock to feed. This has created a huge market for fodder and in Kenya, the most common is Boma Rhodes grass. There is a large potential opportunity for many small-scale fodder farmers if they manage to increase production, reduce their cost, improve quality and connect better to market or consumer. (de Zeeuw & Dubbeling, 2022). Dairy farmers are increasingly becoming more reliant on the fodder hence the need to grow more fodder, specifically Boma Rhodes grass. So, the grass is doing well in Lanet. This research sought to find the determinants of hay productivity in Lanet, Nakuru County. The study hypothesized that socioeconomic factors, farm management and farm characteristic as factors that influence the productivity of hay. The study adopted a descriptive design approach and data was collected through the use of structured questionnaire. Several findings were established, with regards to farm characteristics, farm ownership was found to have a positive effect on productivity. Similarly, loam soil was established to contribute to more productivity of Boma Rhodes grass compared to black cotton soil. When it comes to farm management practices that was measured using record keeping, post-harvest management and storage, use of technology and value addition, the findings of the study reveal that they have a positive effect on productivity. Finally, on socio-economic factors, the study found out that income per acre in the immediate previous season positively affects productivity. The study also found that farmers with a higher value of farm assets are in a better position to grow with specialized tools and make more profits compared to farmers with very few. Finally, farm equipment cost results to increase in productivity.
Corporate governance effects on financial performance of top 100 Small and Medium Enterprises in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2022) Simiyu, Tonny
The main objective of this research was to establish the effects of corporate governance on the financial performance of top 100 SMEs in Kenya. Specific objectives included analyzing background information on top 100 SMEs’ corporate governance in Kenya, establishing the relationship between board attributes and the financial performance of the top 100 SMEs in Kenya, and establishing management view on the relationship among the top 100 SMEs in Kenya. The dependent variable (financial performance) was measured by return on asset ratio (ROA). Independent variables included board size measured by the number of directors, board gender diversity measured by the number of female directors in the board, and directors’ age measured by the biological age of the directors. This research was grounded on agency theory and resource dependence theory, adopted positivism research philosophy and applied correlational research design. Primary data was collected by way of structured questionnaires. The likert scale was used in the questionnaires. Stata software version 13 was used to analyze panel data with the application of the Hausman test that determined the adoption of Fixed Effects Model after returning 3.79% p-value. Data was collected for a period of five years (2015-2019). The population was 260 with a sample size of 158 top 100 SMEs. The study adopted purposive sampling technique. The diagnostic tests carried out include normality, multi-collinearity, autocorrelation, stationarity, heteroscedasticity, misspecification and reliability tests. A total of twenty-two companies responded from a total of one hundred questionnaires that were submitted reflecting 22% response rate. The independent variables influenced the dependent variable by 19.02%. Director’s age and board size influenced ROA negatively while female directorship influenced ROA positively. On management view, 59% of the respondents believed functional boards improved their financial performance, 45% believed that large boards improved their financial performance and 51% believed that female directors did not improve their financial performance. Recommendations were for SMEs to establish a policy on gender composition as well as the limit on directors age, a similar study could be done but with a higher sample size as well as with more board attributes as variables for a longer period of time probably more than five years. The researcher also recommends for the organizers of top 100 SME challenge (Nation Media Group and KPMG) to encourage these top 100 SMEs to support students and other research organizations on research matters.
Factors influencing the adoption of emerging technologies by Micro Small and Medium agribusiness organizations in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2023) Okumu, B. A.
In developing countries such as Kenya, the slow adoption of emerging technologies by micro small and medium agribusiness organizations has been a subject of concern. No wonder, the Kenyan Government is putting emphasis on this sector. The available literature reveal that most micro small and medium agribusiness organizations are lagging behind the larger agribusiness firms in adoption of emerging technologies. This study sought to examine the factors that influence the adoption of Emerging Technologies by micro small and medium agribusiness organizations in Kenya with a focus on agribusiness organizations under two agribusiness value chain projects in Kenya. These projects are, Towards Sustainable Clusters in Agribusiness through Learning in Entrepreneurship and the Kenya Crop and Dairy Marketing System. The factors analyzed included, ICT Infrastructure, Cost of Technology, Top management Support and Government policies/regulations. The study employed a descriptive research design. The target population and sample were two senior managers from the thirty-seven micro small and medium agribusiness organizations targeted by the two projectsto make up seventy-four respondents who were surveyed and included in the study. Structured questionnaires were administered to the seventy-four managers to obtain data and data obtained and recorded in the google forms. Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) and python were used for data management, data entry, cleaning and analysis. These software’s, were used to conduct descriptive and inferential statistics including logistic regression. Tables, Graphs, Bar-Charts were used to present the study results. The findings reveal the level of ICT Infrastructure was found to have a significant positive influence (p=0.006) on adopting emerging technology, indicating that organizations or individuals with better ICT Infrastructure are more likely to adopt such technologies. However, the cost of emerging technology (p=0.065) and management support (p=0.479) was not found to have a statistically significant impact on adoption. Government policy and regulation were marginally significant at p=0.05, suggesting a moderate effect on technology adoption. Key words: Information Communication and Technology, Micro Small and Medium Sized Enterprises, Agribusiness Organizations, Emerging Technologies, Adoption.
The Influence of entrepreneurial competencies on the growth of agribusiness Small and Medium Enterprises in Kiambu County
(Strathmore University, 2023) Gwada, M. N.
Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) are the foundation of most economies. They provide a source of dynamism, economic growth, and flexibility in developed and developing countries. Despite the rising number of SMEs in these developing nations, gross domestic product (GDP) contribution is below 50%. Moreover, only 70% of SMEs pass the five years milestone. Therefore, this study sought to examine the influence of entrepreneurial competencies on the growth of agribusiness SMEs in Kiambu County, Kenya. The study was guided by the following specific objective: To determine the influence of strategic competencies on the growth of agribusiness SMEs in Kiambu County; To assess the effect of relationship competencies on the growth of agribusiness SMEs in Kiambu County; To determine the influence of leadership competencies on the growth of agribusiness SMEs in the Kiambu County; To determine the influence of innovative competencies on the growth of agribusiness SMEs in the Kiambu County. The study was guided by the entrepreneurial competency theory which emphasizes the necessity for a mix of skills to achieve entrepreneurial objectives. A cross-sectional descriptive survey design was adopted. 290 agribusiness SMEs in Kiambu County made up the target population. The study used a census sampling technique where 290 entrepreneurs of agribusiness SMEs in Kiambu County were sampled. Data was collected from 290 SMEs through structured questionnaires, providing insights into the role of entrepreneurial competencies in the Kenyan agribusiness sector. A limitation faced during data collection was that some of the entrepreneurs were not willing to participate in the study, therefore, the researcher educated them on the study objectives and assured them that confidentiality would be maintained. The research employed a quantitative approach, using simple linear regression analysis to investigate the impact of these competencies on the growth of agribusiness SMEs. The results revealed that strategic, leadership, and innovative competencies had a significant positive impact on the growth of agribusiness SMEs in Kiambu County. However, relationship competencies were not found to have a significant influence on business growth. The findings suggested that fostering strategic, leadership, and innovative competencies among entrepreneurs could contribute to the growth and success of agribusiness SMEs in the region. This study contributed to the understanding of entrepreneurial competencies in the context of agribusiness SMEs and provided valuable insights for policymakers, entrepreneurs, and educators to develop targeted interventions and training programs that enhanced the growth potential of SMEs in the agribusiness sector. Additionally, the research identified potential avenues for future investigation such as examining the impact of entrepreneurial competencies in different industries and the use of robust research designs.
Factors affecting credit access from agricultural finance corporations among smallholder farmers in Lamu County
(Strathmore University, 2023) Ochanda, D.
Smallholder production accounts for over 75% of the total agricultural output and over 70% of marketed agricultural produce in Kenya. The rate of agricultural credit access among smallholder farmers in Lamu County has been very low, which is a matter of great concern. Agricultural credit access among smallholder farmers is important in ensuring increased food production for food security, sustainable development, and poverty eradication. Therefore, the main focus of this study was thus to examine the factors affecting the rate of credit access from Agricultural Finance Corporation among smallholder farmers in Lamu County, Kenya. The specific objectives were to examine the effects of loan attributes on agricultural credit access, to assess the effects of borrower attributes on agricultural credit access, and to establish the effects of farm attributes on agricultural credit access. The study was based on the discouraged borrower theory as the main theory to ascertain the extent of the self-selection mechanism among smallholder farmers in Lamu concerning agricultural credit and its impact on credit access. In addition, the study utilized the rational choice theory of demand for financial services because the ultimate decision to borrow or not is a choice to be decided by the borrower, and the ability to pay theory was also used to link with the borrower attributes variable in the study with respect to the ability of the borrower to pay back credit at a specified future date. A sample of 500 smallholder farmer households was obtained from two sub-counties through a multistage sampling technique. The data was analyzed using factor analysis and regression analysis. The findings revealed that loan attributes and borrower attributes had a marginal positive effect while farm attributes had a marginal negative effect on agricultural credit access. The study recommends that AFC management should conduct intensive market sanitization among smallholder farmers in Lamu County on their loan requirements, lending terms, and conditions. Informed smallholder farmers will make lending decisions as a rational choice guided by understanding the costs and benefits of the borrowing decision. Also, county and national governments should work in synergy to develop mechanisms that will encourage agricultural credit access among smallholder farmers to enable the commercialization of smallholder farming and sustainable agriculture. This includes issuing title deeds to smallholder farmers with no deeds of land ownership, discharging title deeds charged to settlement schemes, developing county-specific and agricultural enterprise-specific government guarantee schemes for smallholder farmers who do not have collateral. Smallholder farmers should make proper arrangements to make loan applications within the season so as to avoid loan rejection
Factors influencing youth participation in agricultural cooperatives in the semi-arid areas of Kenya a case study of Mwingi, Kitui County
(Strathmore University, 2023) Mawia, F. K.
Despite the fact that agriculture has a potential of creating jobs for the youth, few young people position themselves for a future in it. In this regard, this study intended to determine factors that influence participation of the youth in agricultural co-operatives in the semi-arid areas of Kenya. As such, the objectives of this research included identifying socio-demographic, economic and institutional variables that inform the youth’s decision to join or not join cooperatives. This study was based on the collective action theory and the humanistic theories. The scope of the research was in Mwingi, Kitui County and intended to adapt descriptive survey research design. Target population was youth (15-35 years old). The targeted population was 243368 and a sample of 400 youth was selected. Out of these 397 responded. Collected data was from both primary sources using questionnaires as the main tool. Qualitative and quantitative methods were applied in data analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse qualitative data and presented in form of percentages, frequencies standard deviations and weighted means. SPSS was the main software used for analysis. Factors under investigation had considerable influences on youth participation in the cooperatives. This was illustrated by positive and statistically significant relationship between participation of youth in agricultural cooperatives (the dependent variable) and youth’s awareness on the existence of agricultural cooperatives in Kitui County; economic factors influencing youth participation in the cooperatives and institutional factors influencing the involvement of youth in the cooperatives. It can this be deduced that the level to which the youth were aware about cooperatives, perceived that they could obtained economic benefits as well as the institutional attributes of cooperatives affected the membership of the youth to cooperatives. This participation was also segmented differently youth of different socio-demographic characteristics. Enhancing the participation of the youth should thus take cognizance of these factors affecting their participation. In this line, the research recommends that there is for agricultural cooperatives to come up with strong marketing interventions that enhance youth awareness of cooperative societies. This research recommended that frameworks and policies should be put in place to continuously reform cooperatives to enhance their appeal to the youth. Key words: Agricultural cooperatives, youth, youth participation
Factors influencing employee turnover intention in family-owned agribusinesses in Kitui County
(Strathmore University, 2024) Kavindu, A. D.
Employee turnover has for long been a problem and costly affair for many organizations. Numerous studies on the reasons for employee turnover have been carried out with major focus on corporates. Whereas family-owned firms face challenges like limited opportunities for non-family employees, family feuds affecting workplace, and preferential treatment for family members, there is scarce information on turnover intention in family-owned businesses specifically those in the agricultural sector. Agribusinesses are faced with retention problem primarily due to the challenging agricultural environment. The study objectives were to investigate the influence of demographic factors, organizational factors and external factors on employee turnover intention in family-owned agribusinesses. The study anchors on two theories; The Adam’s Equity Theory and Herzberg’s Two Factory Theory. A descriptive research design approach was employed. The study was undertaken in three sub-counties within Kitui County; Mwingi West, Mwingi North and Mwingi Central. Data was collected using questionnaires. The study has a target population of 297 employees engaged by family-owned agribusinesses within the study area. 271 employees representing 91.2% of the population responded. Data was analyzed quantitatively using regression by examining the direction and significance of the coefficients. This focused on the theoretical interpretation of these findings. Multiple regression was applied to find correlations between variables under investigation and discussing how the variables were positively or negatively associated in addition to explaining the implications of these relationships in a theoretical manner. The study had several limitations. To start with, the research was constrained by a relatively small sample size, which limited the generalizability of the findings beyond the specific agribusinesses in Kitui County. In addition, the study relied on self-reported data from employees to assess factors influencing turnover intention. This introduced response bias which affected the accuracy and reliability of the results. The study findings show that of all the demographic characteristics, only marital status, salary in Kenya Shillings and tenure had statistically significant effects on employee turnover intention in family-owned agribusinesses in Kitui County based on Levene statistic and Pearson correlation. Furthermore, analysis of variance shows that organizational factors and external factors could statistically and significantly predict turnover intentions among employees in family-owned agribusinesses in Kitui County. This was reiterated by regression coefficients that marital statuses, organizational factors (Pay/remuneration/other benefits, nature of work/job stress, supervision, work environment and organization commitment) and, external factors (perceived alternative employment opportunities and job-hopping) were statistically significant. This shows that family obligations influenced turnover intentions. Also, the work environment and external allures influenced decisions to quit or remain in employment. The study recommends that it is important to have a favourable work environment to motivate employees to remain in employment in family-owned agribusinesses in Kitui County. Family-owned agribusinesses in Kitui County should put in place policies that guarantee adequate employee remuneration to support both individual and family needs. At the same time, these businesses should proactively compare their compensation and benefits with other industry peers to mitigate talent attrition to competitors. Likewise, they should enforce conducive workplace conditions and offer opportunities for personal development to ensure a favorable work environment. Further, implementing continuous benchmarking and improvement policies will enhance the family-owned agribusinesses' attractiveness to potential employees.

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