Institute for Development Studies, University of Nairobi

This study aims (a) to investigate policy alternatives for the beef and dairy industries through the construction of a multi-period linear programming model and (b) to evaluate a quantified model of this kind. The paper outlines and discusses the methodology of the study. Nandi District was chosen for its suitability of agricultural mix. The sample design is described and the type of data collected is detailed – this covers dairying, beef and maize principally. Since the data is still being collected no results can be presented yet. The policy implications are indicated briefly.