An Evaluation of Access to Information on Passion Fruit Production by Farmers in Keiyo North District, Kenya

Abstract

Passion fruit farming is viewed as a viable enterprise in Kenya as an income generating activity. Its farming is gaining popularity in the country and trends for 2002-2010 show its production increasing yearly in Keiyo North district amid various production challenges. A study was conducted to evaluate the access to information on production of passion fruit by farmers in the district. Data was collected through key informant interviews, focus group discussion and administration of a questionnaire. The data collected was on social and economic characteristics, passion fruit management practices, access to initial/current information and dissemination channels. The major findings of the study were that 62.7% of farmers who were the majority, rely on fellow farmers for initial information on production and on extension agents for subsequent information. Baraza/field days were ranked as the most common method of information dissemination. The group approach was found to be popular with 80% of the farmers. This study concludes that there is need to equip farmers with more information which is well structured to suit the needs of the passion fruit farming community.