ROLE OF WOMEN IN PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE PRACTICES IN AHERO IRRIGATION SCHEME, KISUMU COUNTY KENYA

Beatrice Achieng Odiyo, Dr. Purity Gatobu

Abstract


This study examined the role of women in promoting sustainable agricultural practices within the Ahero Irrigation Scheme in Kisumu County, Kenya. Despite being central to agricultural production, women in Ahero continue to face significant socio-economic and institutional barriers that hinder their full participation in sustainability-oriented farming. The research was guided by two specific objectives: to assess the influence of access to agricultural resources and analyze how group participation shapes the adoption of sustainable practices among women farmers. A descriptive research design was employed, targeting a population of 130 women farmers, from which 113 respondents (86.9%) provided valid responses. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS, incorporating descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis. The reliability and validity of the research instrument were confirmed through Cronbach’s Alpha (all above 0.8) and factor analysis (KMO > 0.7), indicating strong internal consistency and construct validity. Findings revealed that women in Ahero generally have moderate access to land, water, farm inputs, and extension services, but limited access to credit and green finance—critical enablers for sustainable agriculture. Most respondents reported high awareness and application of climate-smart agricultural techniques, though digital access to farming information remained limited. Cultural norms were found to moderately restrict women’s autonomy in land use decisions and group leadership, with male relatives still playing dominant roles in farm-level decisions. Notably, membership in farmer groups emerged as a significant facilitator, enhancing access to training, input support, and collective marketing. Correlation analysis showed strong, statistically significant relationships between the independent variables and the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, with group participation (r = 0.818) and access to resources (r = 0.805) showing the strongest associations. The regression model confirmed that Group participation (β = 0.294) and access to resources (β = 0.291) were the most influential predictors. The study concludes that women are pivotal actors in driving sustainability within irrigation-based systems, but systemic barriers—including inadequate credit and limited institutional support—must be addressed. It recommends strengthening women’s land rights, expanding access to climate-smart training, investing in digital inclusion, and promoting gender-equitable leadership in farmer groups.

Key Words: Sustainability-Oriented Farming, Access to Agricultural Resources, Group Participation, Adoption, Sustainable Practices


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