THE ROLE OF FARMER GROUPS IN THE ADOPTION OF SUSTAINABLE SUGARCANE FARMING PRACTICES IN KAKAMEGA NORTH SUB-COUNTY
Abstract
This study evaluated the role of farmer groups in the adoption of sustainable sugarcane farming practices among smallholder farmers in Kakamega North Sub-County. The research targeted all seven wards, covering a population of 65,323 sugarcane smallholder farmers, with a sample size of 394. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and interviews with key informants. Findings revealed that 95% of farmers were not members of farmer groups. Significant associations were observed between membership in farmer groups and the adoption of sustainable practices such as weeding (p ≤ 0.001) and soil testing (p ≤ 0.001). These results underscore the importance of farmer groups in facilitating access to knowledge, extension services, and collective action in promoting sustainable sugarcane farming. Strengthening and expanding farmer organizations could therefore play a critical role in scaling up sustainable practices among smallholder farmers in the region.
Key Words: Farmer Groups, Adoption of Sustainable Sugarcane Farming Practices, Kakamega North Sub-County
CITATION: Wanjala, E. N., Ndiema, A. C., & Akundabweni, L. S. (2025). The role of farmer groups in the adoption of sustainable sugarcane farming practices in Kakamega North Sub-County. The Strategic Journal of Business & Change Management, 12 (2), 1458 – 1470. http://dx.doi.org/10.61426/sjbcm.v12i2.3284
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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.61426/sjbcm.v12i2.3284
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