Impact of use of farming technology on livelihood of smallscale dairy farmers in Longisa, Bomet county, Kenya.

Abstract

The study focused on impact of use of dairy farming technology on small-scale dairy farmers’ livelihood in five wards in Longisa sub-County: Kembu, Merigi, Chemaner, Kipreres, and Longisa. An ex post facto research design was used in the study. 128 smallscale dairy farmers, two agricultural officers and ten milk collectors (drivers) were randomly sampled for the study. Data were collected using questionnaires, observations and document analysis. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and t-test procedure. It was found that there is a significant difference between farmers who adopted dairy farming technology and those who did not (t(106) = -15.2240, p = 0.000) indicating that there is improvement in milk production for farmers who utilise the farming technology. In addition, the study established that the small-scale dairy farmers’ level of education plays a major role in adoption of farming technology, use of credit and milk market facilities leading to enhanced income and positive impact on the farmers’ livelihoods. The study findings have implications on Agricultural Education and Extension Officers, rural dairy farmers, Farmers’ Training Centres and teachers of agriculture in schools.