Maize farmers perceptions towards organic soil management practices in Bungoma County, Kenya

Abstract

The objective of the study was to evaluate maize farmers’ perceptions towards organic soil management practices in Bungoma County. A simple random sampling technique was used to select a sample of 650 smallholder farmers and primary data was collected using observations and interviews with the help of a semi-structured schedule. In the analysis, a Likert-type five-point continuum scale was used to rank farmers perceptions with one (1) as the most and five (5) as the worst check. The results showed that farmers were invariably concerned about the environment and were interested in protecting agricultural resources both for the present use and for future generations. Application of green manure and cultivation of legume crops were perceived to improve soil fertility and soil structure. Further, agrochemicals were perceived to have a negative effect on both human and animal health and their over-application leads to development of pest resistance to pesticides. The study revealed a relationship between perception towards organic soil management practices and some socio-economic and institutional factors such as age, education, household size, extension, training and farm distance. The study recommends policy interventions in enhancing farmers’ awareness through training and technical advice on organic farming practices through agricultural extension services and developing information networks among farmers.