An analysis of the economic potential and adoption of alley cropping in Siaya district

Abstract

Though alley cropping has been in use for about six years in Siaya District, no economic study to determine its impact on farm families' income in the district has been undertaken hitherto. This study was therefore an attempt to determine the impact by focusing on two divisions: namely Bondo and Yala. These two divisions represent medium and high potential regions of the district. The objectives of the study were to describe the factors that influence adoption of alley cropping and to determine the profitability of alley cropping. Data was generated by administering a questionnaire survey. This primary data was supplemented with secondary data obtained from Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) . Through the use of appropriate statistical techniques and Cost-Benefit analysis (CBA) , it was concluded that alley cropping has the potential of increasing farm families' income in both divisions. The potential has been realized to some extent in both divisions. The study established that labour availability, level of income and farm-size are important factors that influence adoption of alley cropping. VI ACKNOWLEDGEMENT To my supervisor, Prof Ackello-Ogutu who guided and supported me throughout the research work, I am most grateful. Mr. D. Hoekstra and Mr. R. Swinkels of ICRAF must also be thanked for their helpful comments. I am also grateful to Dr. Omwani who helped at the initial stages of my research proposal. My sincere gratitude goes to the University of Nairobi for sponsoring me for the Masters program. I am also grateful to ICRAF for allowing me to make use of their library. My thanks also go to Dr. Nyamai of KEFRI for providing me with secondary data. Finally, much thanks go to Ms R. 0100 and E. Akinyi for their help in typing the thesis. To my parents and other friends who helped in various ways, I am most thankful.