Language and the Development of Agriculture in Kenya

Abstract

Agriculture is the backbone of Kenya’s economy. Currently, it contributes 25%¹ of Kenya’s GDP (Gross Domestic Product). Given its relevance, deliberate effort needs to be made to ensure that there is proper investment into this sector; and as this happens, attention should also be given to the issue of language. Currently, not much focus is given to language as an important element in the development of agriculture. This is a contradiction because language plays a central role through its communicative function, without which agricultural involvement cannot take place. This paper investigates the role of language in the development of agriculture in Kenya. The study is based on the premise that communication is key in the agricultural sector mainly because the language that is used to communicate and how the communication is done determine its success. This is an applied theoretical study that delves into the interface between linguistics and agriculture, hence, its interdisciplinary approach. The study was carried out in Uasin Gishu and Trans-nzoia counties in Rift Valley province, Kenya; where a total of 93 respondents were involved. Data was collected using questionnaires and analysis done through categorization and description. Findings show that in many instances, there is breakdown of communication that arises from the inability of the professionals to communicate the acquired knowledge in a language that is understood by the lay public. The study recommends an interdisciplinary approach in the training of graduates in the field of agriculture. This will enable them acquire skills that make them optimally prepared to serve as professionals in their area of specialization. If done, it will reduce inaccessibility to relevant information that has adverse consequences to the economic development of the nation.

Keywords: Agriculture, language, communication, development, Kenya