Evaluation Of Types And Factors Influencing Adoption Of Rainwater Harvesting Techniques In Yatta District, Kenya

Abstract

The utilization and critical mass adoption of appropriate rainwater harvesting techniques is an important prerequisite for agricultural development, particularly in semi-arid areas. Against this backdrop, a study was undertaken to evaluate the factors influencing adoption of rainwater harvesting techniques among households in Yatta district, Kenya. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 60 households. Logistic regression was used to evaluate different factors influencing adoption of rainwater harvesting techniques. Most of the farmers were aware of a variety of water harvesting techniques, with roof water harvesting (45%) and dams (36.1%) being rated high, and were willing to adopt them within their local context. The regression model showed the education level of household head, experience of water shortage, and awareness of water harvesting techniques and age of farmers as having a significant and positive influence on adoption of water harvesting techniques. For effective implementation and subsequent adoption of rainwater harvesting technologies, farmers would require technical knowhow and skills, capital, raw material and organizational support. In addition, farmers need to be mobilized and trained on the use of rainwater harvesting techniques and sensitized on the potential socioeconomic benefits of adopting them