An economic analysis of small scale french bean production in Central Province of Kenya

Abstract

In this study small scale French bean production systems ln the major growing areas in Kenya are analyzed. The main purpose being to identify the problems causing low yields and to suggest possible ways of overcomming them. ( The approaches used for the analysis included descriptive analysis for describing and comparing the usage of resources and cultural practices in the areas of study and regression analysis to estimate the influence of fertilizers, pesticides, seed and manure on yields. ~ Although the French bean enterprise was ranked first by most farmers in terms of income generation, the acreage under this crop was found to be minimal. Irrigation of the crop was practiced by all, where manual methods of irrigation were the most commonly used. Fertilizer and pesticide application were practiced by all farmers interviewed, but deviations occurred with respect to recommended amounts. Labour use was quite high, with irrigation taking up 45% whilst harvesting and grading took 20% to 28.5% of total labour requirement. Yields in all the areas were found well below yields reported by researchers and other French bean growing countries. Regression analysis showed that nitrogen fertilizer, pesticides, manure and certified seed significantly influenced French bean yields and amongst these inputs, only the nitrogen fertilizer was being used below the point of economic optimum. The study has shown that there is a potential of increasing French bean yields obtained by small scale farmers by using increased amounts of nitrogenous fertilizers, manure and the use of improved certified seed. Provision of information on the correct usage of inputs and -market availability for the French beans is important if constraints to yield improvement are to be successfully eliminated.