Adoption of dairy goats

ABSTRACTDairy goats have played a vital role in contributing to the development of rural economy. Improved dairy goats have higher milk productivity, and other benefits that will aid in enhancing food security. Some farmers adopted crossbred dairy goats at the initial introduction stages in the groups. However, the rate of adoption among the smallholder farmers has not been fully indicated. The study aimed at analyzing the smallholder farmer’s adoption of crossbred dairy goats in Nyandarua County, Kenya. Clear knowledge of the adoption rate among the smallholder farmers will guide agricultural policies towards increased adoption of crossbred dairy goats in the local communities. In addition, the policy makers will be able to take relevant actions that will lead to improvement of dairy goats’ production which will lead to food security in the region.

Data was generated using 70 randomly selected respondents from the study area. The data was analyzed using SPSS. Regression analysis was applied to come with factors that influenced the adoption of crossbred dairy goats by farmers. The results indicated that farmers who belonged to social groups had a high chance of accessing extension services and thus training on dairy goats. The age and the type of households had an influence on the crossbred goats. The study suggests that capacity building trough groups is important among smallholder farmers. The policies towards agriculture should be guided towards increased production of dairy goats that has a high potential increase food security and lead to better management of land resource.