Adoption of Rock Phosphate-Fortified Compost Manure in Western Kenya

Abstract

ABSTRACT Inadequate soil nutrient replenishment characterises the intensively managed farming systems of western Kenya. This has resulted in widespread negative soil nutrient balances in the region. A study was conducted to determine the impact of farmers' subjective preferences for some of technology-specific attributes inherent in Rock Phosphate (RP)-fortified compost as a technological option in application of RP, and its influence on probability of adoption. On-farm demonstrations using the technology were conducted on 8 farms where 32 farmers were encouraged to participate actively in all the activities. A tobit model (Tobin, 1958) analysis of the data collected revealed impact of technology on overall yield, and convenience associated with the use of the technology to be significant at 0.01 level in influencing adoption behaviour. Labour requirement and impact of the technology on the plants' growth vigour were not significant in explaining adoption decisions. The findings of the study were able to determine some of the technology-specific attributes associated with RP-fortified compost that are significant in explaining adoption behaviour in the region. The findings will prove valuable in guiding the design of extension packages geared towards enhancing improved soil nutrient management practices.