AGRO-ECOLOGICAL PRACTICES AND PRODUCTIVITY OF SMALL-SCALE CROP FARMING IN TAITA TAVETA COUNTY, KENYA
Abstract
Statement of the Problem: Agro-ecological practices offer a sustainable approach to
improving productivity and environmental resilience in small-scale crop farming systems,
especially in resource-constrained regions. However, with increasing challenges such as soil
degradation, unpredictable rainfall patterns, and declining yields, there is a growing need to
evaluate alternative farming systems that align with ecological principles and farmer
livelihoods.
Purpose of the Study: The study aimed to investigate the influence of agro-ecological
practices on the productivity of small-scale crop farmers in Taita Taveta County, Kenya.
Research Methodology: The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional design using
stratified random sampling to select 380 small-scale farmers across the sub-counties of Taveta,
Mwatate, Voi and Taita. Data was collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using
logistic regression to determine the relationship between agro-ecological practices such as
intercropping, crop rotation, use of organic inputs, and soil moisture conservation and farm
productivity indicators like yield per acre, net income, and crop diversification.
Findings: The findings reveal that farmers who consistently apply agro-ecological techniques
experience significantly higher productivity compared to those relying on conventional inputs.
Moreover, farmer characteristics such as training, experience, and access to extension services
enhance the effectiveness of agro-ecological practices.
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- Journal Articles (BE) [383]
