Influence of Socioeconomic Factors on Utilization of Research Findings among the Fisher Folks in Kisumu Municipality, Kenya

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate influence of socio-economic factors on utilization of research findings in the management of Environment and Fishing Efforts in Kisumu Municipality kenya. The objectives of this study was to determine influence of socioeconomic factors on utilization of research findings and innovation. Cross sectional descriptive survey design was used in this study. Households were the unit of analysis. From a study population of 15,179 households, a minium sample of 384 household heads were used, proportionate sampling and systematic sampling were used to select households according to location of study area. Purposive sampling were also used to get key informants. Primary data was collected through questionnaires, key informant interviews, Focus Group Discussions, field observation, and photography. The quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics to establish relationships. Qualitative data were analyzed by creating patterns and themes. Logistic regression analysis were used to establish influence of socio economic factors on fishing effort to answer the research questions. The regression output shows relationship between fishfolks socioeconomic status and utilization of research findings was positive r = 0.320, R2 =0.102 of the variation and β =0.320, p < 0.05 shows that social economic status significantly influence utilization of research findings. The study concluded that there is a relationship between social economic activities and utilization of research findings. It was recommended that the Kisumu Municipality/County Government should take a deliberate step to reduce poverty levels by creating a conducive alternative investment opportunies to reduce over dependancy on the lake as source of employment.