Factors influencing the productivity of hay in Lanet Division, Nakuru West Sub - County

Kinge, Kevin

Factors influencing the productivity of hay in Lanet Division, Nakuru West Sub - County

Date

2022

Authors

Kinge, Kevin

Publisher

Strathmore University

Abstract

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.