Analysis of Factors Affecting Snow Peas Production in Kipipiri Constituency, Nyandarua County

Abstract

Horticultural sector is an important sector in production of food and generation of income. According to Kenya’s vision 2030, crop cultivation is one of the main pillars of unlocking the potential of Kenya through increased productivity. The importance of snow peas is increasing greatly due to its high demand especially in Europe. In spite of the benefits associated with production of snow peas, farmers in Nyandarua County have been withdrawing their attention and effort in snow peas production and thus unable to maximize production this study was aimed at determining the challenges that these farmers are facing and which could be leading to a low production of snow peas. The study determined the specific constraints hindering production among small scale farmers who are the majority in snow peas production. The study utilized random sampling design to collect data in Kipipiri constituency in the three wards; Wanjohi, Githioro and Geta. A structured questionnaire was used to solicit information on technical knowledge of the farmers, extension services offered to them and the cost of inputs involved in snow peas production including labor. Tabulation of the average mean of the farmer output was done and the result compared. Linear regression analysis was done to determine the extent to which the independent variables affect the dependent variables. The result were then analyzed and compared to come up with conclusive and dependable outcomes in analysis of the problems that smallholder farmer’s encounter in their effort to generate income through snow peas production. The study concluded that there is a significant effect of cost of inputs in snow peas production while extension services and technical knowledge were not largely applied in snow peas production.