| dc.description.abstract | Smallholder farmers in arid and semi-arid parts of Kenya can increase maize yields by growing
improved varieties that are available through formal seed markets. Smallholder farmers’ access
to improved germplasm, however, is limited. The objective of this study was to understand how
the seed maize market channels are structured, the bottlenecks to them operating more
efficiently, effectively and equitably, and to identify the factors that influence the choice of
smallholder farmers in the arid and semi-arid areas of Machakos District.
Data was generated by use of qualitative and quantitative research methods. Qualitative data on
the structure of the seed input market chains in the study area was followed by a household
survey of 150 random sampled households. The sampled households were interviewed using a
structured questionnaire. Logit model was used to analyze quantitatively factors influencing
farmers’ choice of improved maize seeds.
The study findings showed that extension contacts, access to credit, membership to farmer
groups and experience with improved maize varieties positively influence the likelihood of
farmers’ choice of improved maize seeds. Cost of seeds, distance to output markets and to
extension service, unavailability of improved high yielding maize varieties at the farm level, and
transaction costs negatively influenced choice of improved maize seeds. The study reveals a
large unexplored formal maize market.
It is recommended that government implement policies that empower smallholders such
strengthening extension service and encouraging players outside government to provide the
service, make credit more accessible to smallholders and organize farmers into producer groups.
It is further recommended that maize seed dealers make seeds available by penetrating closer to
farmers. | en |
