Entrepreneurial orientation and performance of smallholder avocado women farmers in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya
Date
2022
Authors
Korir, Clare
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Publisher
Strathmore University
Abstract
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.
Description
A Research project submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of Master of Management in Agribusiness at Strathmore Business School, Strathmore University