SOCIO-ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF INDIGENOUS TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE USE IN RICEBEAN PRODUCTION AMONG SMALL HOLDER FARMERS IN NYANZA REGION KENYA

Abstract

The promotion of sustainable, climate-smart agricultural practices and crop diversification is essential for addressing food insecurity in Kenya. Despite government efforts to transform agricultural systems, progress remains uncertain, with challenges needing comprehensive solutions to ensure long-term sustainability. Ricebean, a multipurpose but underutilized legume, holds significant potential for improving crop diversity and resilience; however, its adoption is limited due to lack of knowledge and awareness among farmers and extension officers. Farmers possess indigenous technical knowledge (ITK) about ricebean, but the knowledge is neither well-documented nor integrated with scientific advances, hindering the crop's wider adoption. This study aimed to analyze the ITK used by ricebean farmers in Nyanza Region, identifying knowledge gaps and strategies to increase adoption and support sustainable ricebean production. Specific objectives of the study included: identifying farmers’ ITK on ricebean production, assessing socioeconomic factors that influence ITK adoption, evaluating farmers’ perceptions on integrating ITK in ricebean production, and comparing the prevelance rate of ITK among smallholder farmers in Migori, Siaya, and Kisii counties. Grounded in Social Cognitive Theory, the study used a cross-sectional survey design to collect data from 397 ricebean-farming households through multistage, purposive, propotionate and snowball sampling procedures in the three counties. Data collection methods included semi-structured questionnaires, FGDs guide, interviews, photographs and observations. Analysis was done using SPSS version 20. Results show that most ricebean farmers are women (70.3%) with education level of 57.2% being at primary education and an average age of 44 years. Farming is the main occupation for 88.2% of participants, with more than half earning less than Ksh 35,000 annually. Use of ITK is widespread, particularly in planting timing, land preparation and crop management, with 62% of farmers integrating ITK with scientific practices. Adoption of ITK is influenced by factors such as gender, market access and extension services (p<0.05), with men more likely to adopt ITK practices than women. Although farmers value ITK for its affordability and environmental benefits, they believe that it is not effective as its production is relatively low. County-level variations indicate that Siaya has the highest female farmer participation and lowest income levels, while Kisii leads in ricebean income generation. Similarly, ITK practices in ricebean farming vary significantly across Kisii, Migori, and Siaya counties, shaped by factors such as climate, socio-cultural preferences and resource availability. The study concludes that ricebean farming in Kisii, Migori, and Siaya counties is characterized by small-scale, female-dominated operations with significant reliance on Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITK). However, challenges such as low incomes, limited access to education, markets and extension services hinder productivity. Policymakers should focus on improving access to credit, agricultural support systems and markets, particularly in underserved regions like Migori and Kisii. Strengthening training programs, fostering farming groups, and promoting equitable resource distribution can enhance ITK adoption, boost productivity and improve rural livelihoods.