Institute for Development Studies, University of Nairobi

This paper is a brief review of a study that is being conducted on agricultural research in Kenya from 1963 to 1978. Because data analysis has not be done to date, it focuses on a discussion of the significance of the study, a review of the related literature, the hypotheses that the study will test, the methodology that has been used for data collection and that will be used for data analysis, and a very preliminary presentation of research findings. It is noted that a pattern has been established in the agricultural research system that reflects the colonial history of the country and the resulting mal-distribution in the provision of government services and the socio-economic conditions that prevailed in the post independence period. As well, the significant foreign input into research has had an impact on the shape that research services have taken.