In the arid landscapes of Makueni County, Kenya, smallholder farmers are facing an uphill battle against climate change, with prolonged droughts threatening their livelihoods and food security. However, a glimmer of hope emerges from a recent study published in ‘Advances in Agriculture’ (which translates to ‘Progress in Agriculture’), led by Timothy Meti from the Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension. The research shines a light on the determinants of adopting climate-smart agricultural (CSA) practices, offering a roadmap for enhancing resilience and productivity in the face of adversity.
The study, which surveyed 384 farming households, revealed that 44% of smallholder farmers in Makueni County have adopted CSA practices such as soil conservation, crop diversification, agroforestry, conservation tillage, irrigation, and terracing. These practices are not just about mitigating climate change; they are about seizing new opportunities for growth and sustainability in the agricultural sector.
“Land ownership, access to affordable credit, farm assets and machinery, group membership, household income, and farming experience significantly influence the adoption of CSA practices,” Meti explained. The research underscores the importance of policy interventions that promote the availability and affordability of production assets, access to markets, affordable credit, and increased extension contacts. These factors not only enhance the adoption of CSA practices but also bolster community resilience to climate change.
The findings also highlight that land ownership, extension contacts, education, and group membership significantly influence the intensity of adoption of CSA practices. This suggests that empowering farmers with knowledge, resources, and community support can lead to more profound and impactful changes in agricultural practices.
The implications of this research extend beyond the borders of Makueni County. As climate change continues to pose challenges to global food security, the insights from this study can inform policy formulation and practice dissemination in other regions facing similar challenges. By understanding the determinants of CSA adoption, stakeholders can tailor interventions to enhance the resilience of smallholder farmers and improve their livelihoods.
Moreover, the study’s focus on the intensity of adoption offers a nuanced understanding of how deeply these practices can be integrated into farming systems. This is crucial for developing strategies that not only encourage initial adoption but also ensure sustained and effective implementation.
As the world grapples with the impacts of climate change, the agricultural sector stands at the forefront of the battle for food security. The research led by Timothy Meti provides a compelling case for investing in climate-smart agricultural practices and supporting the farmers who are on the front lines of this challenge. By doing so, we can pave the way for a more resilient and sustainable future for agriculture and the communities that depend on it.