In the arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs) of Kenya, groundnut farmers are facing a pressing challenge: how to adapt to climate change while improving productivity and food security. A recent study published in ‘Discover Agriculture’ (which translates to ‘Kutafuta Kilimo’ in Swahili) sheds light on the determinants of adopting climate-smart agricultural (CSA) technologies and practices, with a particular focus on gender disparities. The research, led by Rahiel Walelgn Awoke from the School of Rural Development and Agricultural Innovation at Haramaya University, offers valuable insights that could shape future developments in the agricultural sector, with potential commercial impacts for the energy sector as well.
The study, conducted across Siaya and Elgeyo Marakwet counties, investigated how gender and other socioeconomic factors influence the adoption of five key CSA technologies and practices: water harvesting, drought-resistant seeds, soil conservation, organic fertilizer application, and intercropping. The research employed a multivariate probit model to analyze data from 196 smallholder farmers, revealing that 13 out of 14 determinants significantly affect the adoption of these technologies and practices.
One of the most striking findings was the distinct gender disparities in labor allocation. “Women predominantly undertake labor-intensive activities such as weed management, harvesting, and postharvest management, while men dominated land preparation and groundnut marketing,” Awoke explained. This division of labor also correlated with the adoption patterns of some CSA technologies and practices, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
Interestingly, the study found no statistically significant difference between male and female-headed farmers in adopting some CSA technologies and practices. This paradox suggests that although the division of labor remains high in agricultural activities, adoption decisions may follow different patterns in Kenya’s ASALs.
The research also revealed that access to extension services, credit, and technology, as well as group membership and farming experience, highly and positively affected the adoption intensity of CSA technologies and practices. These findings underscore the importance of targeted interventions to promote widespread adoption.
So, what does this mean for the future of agriculture and the energy sector? The study’s findings could inform the development of more effective extension services and credit schemes, tailored to the specific needs of smallholder farmers in ASALs. Moreover, the emphasis on gender-disaggregated analysis could pave the way for more inclusive and equitable agricultural policies.
In the energy sector, the adoption of CSA technologies and practices could have significant commercial impacts. For instance, the promotion of water harvesting and drought-resistant seeds could reduce the reliance on energy-intensive irrigation methods, lowering operational costs for farmers and energy providers alike. Furthermore, the adoption of organic fertilizer application and intercropping could enhance soil health and carbon sequestration, contributing to the development of a low-carbon economy.
As Awoke noted, “County agricultural offices need to ensure large-scale adoption of CSA technologies and practices through mobile phone messages, farmer-led demonstrations, field schools, and success stories.” By creating awareness and establishing wider delivery of CSA technologies and practices, stakeholders can drive sustainable agricultural development and contribute to the achievement of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
In conclusion, this research offers valuable insights into the determinants of adopting CSA technologies and practices in Kenya’s ASALs, with a particular focus on gender disparities. The findings could shape future developments in the agricultural sector and have significant commercial impacts for the energy sector. As we strive for a more sustainable and inclusive future, it is crucial to heed the lessons learned from this study and work towards the widespread adoption of CSA technologies and practices.