An Analysis of the Current Production Trends of Farm Enterprises in Trans-Nzoia County, Kenya

Abstract

An economic analysis of small-scale farming enterprises in Kenya was carried out in Trans-Nzoia district. It focused on growing of beans, maize and goat rearing, to a less extent. The study aimed at establishing current production trends of the farming practices. The study adopted a survey research design in which interviews and questionnaires were used to collect data from the Agricultural Officer at the Trans-Nzoia district headquarters, the extension staff and selected farmers. A total of 357 respondents were selected using simple cluster sampling technique. The findings of the study indicated that the current production levels of beans, maize in the district have been declining over the years. Despite continued planting, the people have remained poor. Analysis and comparison of the economic returns per acre revealed that more maize is produced per acre than beans. The study recommends that the government of Kenya and the respective departments should give the necessary attention to agricultural issues by providing support services for small scale farmers. Involving the small scale farmers in self-help rehabilitation measures, greater reliance on mobilization of grass root resources particularly among the poor and women would go a long way to enhance and increase production levels.

Keywords: Current Production Trends, Farm Enterprises, Trans-Nzoia County, Kenya