ORGANIC FARMING AND THEIR EFFECTS ON HOUSEHOLD FOOD SECURITY IN MANDERA EAST SUB COUNTY
Abstract
Purpose of the study: The objective of this study was to determine the effects of organic farming practices on household food security in Mandera East Sub-County, Kenya.
Statement of the problem: Despite Mandera East Sub-County's arid and semi-arid climatic conditions with erratic rainfall and scarce water sources limiting agricultural activity, the specific impact of organic farming practices on household food security in this context remained insufficiently understood.
Methodology: This study adopted a cross-sectional research design. The target population was 14,170 farm families in Mandera East Sub-County, from which a sample of 389 farm families was selected using stratified random sampling across three wards. Data were collected through questionnaires, focusing on quantitative information.Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis.
Findings: The study revealed that maize and sorghum are the primary and secondary crops, cultivated by 61.1% and 38.9% of respondents respectively. However, yields are generally low, with 80.2% of farmers harvesting only 15 to 50 kilograms of maize. A significant 94.6% of farmers reported harvests lasting less than four months, indicating a precarious food security situation. The adoption of organic farming practices, particularly crop rotation and diversification, showed potential in promoting agricultural resilience.
Conclusion: The study concludes that while organic farming practices demonstrate potential for enhancing agricultural resilience, current adoption rates and yield levels are insufficient to ensure food security in Mandera East Sub-County.
Recommendations: The study recommends increased efforts to promote and support the adoption of organic farming practices, with a focus on improving crop yields and extending harvest longevity. Further research should explore barriers to adoption and strategies to enhance the effectiveness of organic farming in arid and semi-arid conditions.
Keywords: Organic Farming Practices, Crop Rotation, Household Food Security, Mandera East Sub-County, Kenya.
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