Smallholder group dynamics and capacity building: A case study of dairy groups in Kenya

ABSTRACT Smallholder farmer groups increase market access and reduce transaction costs, but many challenges reduce their performance. A study on how group dynamics and capacity building influence group performance was conducted in Meru, Tharaka Nithi and Uasin Gishu Counties in 2013 with six smallholder dairy groups. Specific objectives were to determine how group dynamics influence group performance, build capacity in the groups and evaluate group performance. Focus group discussions were conducted followed by training based on findings from the discussions. Evaluation was done three months after training. Descriptive analysis was used by adopting the Institutional Analysis and Development Framework to evaluate group performance. The groups had differences in resource endowment, membership, and operating environment. After evaluation, Muchege Hortmil, Ciomburu Arithi and Langas Disabled Self-help Groups had the highest scores, whereas Kapkawa Baitany and Thuita Dairy Self-help Groups, and Chepng’oror Cooperative Society had the least. Awareness of the legal and governance systems after training increased labour division and democracy in Muchege Hortmil and Ciomburu Arithi. Strict enforcement of group rules in Muchege Hortmil improved performance, but the groups faced unfair competition from hawkers. Vulnerabilities reduced performance in Chepng’oror and Kapkawa Baitany, whereas the same vulnerabilities motivated Langas Disabled to improve. The high proportion of inactive members in Thuita reduced performance. Group performance is not so necessarily determined by the group's initial conditions, but by their efforts to organise themselves and learn. Rules are significant in determining group’s performance.