An economic analysis of small scale french bean production in Central Province of Kenya
Abstract
In this study small scale French bean production systems
ln the major growing areas in Kenya are analyzed. The main
purpose being to identify the problems causing low yields and
to suggest possible ways of overcomming them. (
The approaches used for the analysis included
descriptive analysis for describing and comparing the usage
of resources and cultural practices in the areas of study
and regression analysis to estimate the influence of
fertilizers, pesticides, seed and manure on yields. ~
Although the French bean enterprise was ranked first by
most farmers in terms of income generation, the acreage under
this crop was found to be minimal. Irrigation of the crop
was practiced by all, where manual methods of irrigation were
the most commonly used. Fertilizer and pesticide application
were practiced by all farmers interviewed, but deviations
occurred with respect to recommended amounts. Labour use was
quite high, with irrigation taking up 45% whilst harvesting
and grading took 20% to 28.5% of total labour requirement.
Yields in all the areas were found well below yields reported
by researchers and other French bean growing countries.
Regression analysis showed that nitrogen fertilizer,
pesticides, manure and certified seed significantly
influenced French bean yields and amongst these inputs, only
the nitrogen fertilizer was being used below the point of
economic optimum.
The study has shown that there is a potential of
increasing French bean yields obtained by small scale farmers
by using increased amounts of nitrogenous fertilizers, manure
and the use of improved certified seed. Provision of
information on the correct usage of inputs and -market
availability for the French beans is important if constraints
to yield improvement are to be successfully eliminated.
Citation
Wanjiru, M. W(1992). An economic analysis of small scale French bean production in Central Province of KenyaSponsorhip
University of NairobiPublisher
Department of Agricultural Economics, University of Nairobi, Kenya
Description
Msc- Thesis