Participatory analysis of the farming system and resources in Wundanyi location, Taita district, Kenya : A livestock perspective

Abstract

This study was carried out using two of the methods of farming systems analysis namely Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) and Static Survey. The objective was to analyze the mixed farming system in this area in view of the changes in demands, constraints and opportunities that have affected the agricultural sector in Kenya since the Structure Adjustment Programs. The results show that indeed the area was negatively affected by the liberalization, land pressure and concomitant economic stresses, but the decline in technology adoption and production is not so drastic as to be declared irreversible. This decline in adoption in low sales of livestock and products and it appears to have been caused mostly by factors external to the farm especially resulting from liberalization and privatization of animal health and production services. It is thus recommended that intensified extension and service provision accompanied by a commercialization approach are urgently required to stop further decline.