Factors Influencing Production of ILVs by Smallholder Farmers in Kisii County, Kenya

Abstract

Indigenous leafy vegetables (ILVs) are gaining popularity as a staple indigenous diet in Kenya. Most prominent farmers, however, are underestimate these vegetables despite a steadily expanding demand, as seen by a significant supply gap. ILVs costs increase faster than their exotic counterparts as demand outpaces supply, making them unaffordable for the bulk of eager consumers. The study location was Kisii County. The study is critical because it aims to gather, examine, and disseminate vital data required to achieve the Big Four agenda approved by the Kenyan Government for realizing Kenya Vision 2030. The purpose of the study was to investigate factors influencing the production of ILVs by smallholder farmers, in Kisii County, Kenya. The target population was smallholder farmers, traders, and consumers of the ILVs. These smallholder farmers, traders, and consumers of ILVs who live near 11 market centres of Kisii County made up the sampling group. Using Cochran's sample size calculation procedure for an unknown population, 349 responses comprised the study's sample size. Descriptive statistics like frequency and percentage were employed to describe the population's demographic and socioeconomic features. Inferential statistics was performed using the mean and standard deviation to examine the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. Data analysis involved several steps, beginning with data collection and ending with a complete presentation of the study findings. Related information was compiled during the procedure after the analysis of the data. The results indicated that ILVs benefitted smallholder farmers, traders and consumers in terms of finances and nutrition.