Survey of pigeonpea production systems, utilization and marketing in semi-arid lands of Kenya

Abstract

In order to assess the status of pigconpca (Cajanus cajon (L.) Millsp.) production in KenY;1, two surveys were carried out in Mac~lIeni and Mhecre Districts in arcus representative or the main agro-ccological pigcoupca producing zone of the country (lfl--"itititude ASAL). Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) approach was chosen as research method and was completed by household interviews based on :1 semi-structured questionnaire. The main points developed are the presentation of the different farming systems in which pigconpca is considered as an important legume crop, the identification of the factors explaining pigeon pea production variations, the quantification of the use of improved varieties and improved production practices, and the analysis of the major patterns and trends in pigeonpca production, consumption and marketing. Keywords. Pigeonpca, C(!j(1I7I1S cajun, ri1r111ing systcrn, pnrticipnrory rurul nppraisul, Kenya.