Assessing psycho-social, socioeconomic and institutional characteristics that influence adoption of climate smart agriculture in Taita Taveta County, Kenya.
Date
2021
Authors
Godino, Mwasaru Mwaghania
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Strathmore University
Abstract
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.
Description
A dissertation submitted in partial fulfillment for the award of the degree of Master of Management in Agribusiness, Strathmore University
Keywords
Psycho-Social, Socioeconomic, Climate Smart Agriculture