Population pressure as a factor of rural development in Hamisi District Kakamega District

Abstract

Human population in terms of size, composition, distribution, components of growth and other characteristics provide a basic framework for estimating various categories of social, economic and physical planning needs and alternative solutions for the society over time# Consequently population is a significant variable when considering rural development# The study examines the impact of population pressure on rural development in Haroisi Division# The situation is examined from the physical, social and economic stand points# Finally there is an attempt to show how to check population pressure and sustain rural development# The findings show? that population pressure is severely experienced in the division mainly due to high population densities that exceed the available resources and poor income generating activities# To counteract population pressure the following recommendations are made; reduction of family sizes, resettlement of the overspill population, intensification of agricultural production and diversification of economic activities# In addition there is a recommendation that the area should be provided with adequate and efficient infrastructure and social services such as transportation, health, education, water, energy and postal services