Extension Strategies On Utilization And Conservation Of Sugarcane By-products Dairy Feed In Malava Sub-county, Kenya

Abstract

The study assessed extension strategies for improving the utilization and conservation of sugarcane tops (SCTs) in dairy cattle feeding systems in Malava Sub County, Kenya, with emphasis on three administrative wards (West Kabras, Butali-Chegulo and South Kabras) of Malava Sub-County, Kenya. The area has two sugar factories hence sugarcane cash crop cultivation is dominant with bulk SCTs available after harvesting. A cross-sectional and observational studies was used and data collected from a 400 respondents selected through stratified random sampling using questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussion (FGD), key informants and observation checklists. Results indicated farmers in West Kabras preferred, farmer trainers, demonstrations, and dissemination facilitators strategies. Gender–based differences were evident with Men preferring Farmer trainer approach while women leaned towards dissemination facilitators. Demonstrations (75%) were dominantly accepted strategy in Butali-Chegulo, Despite the abundance of SCTs there is inadequate knowledge on improving its low nutritional quality. The study found varying preferences for extension strategies based on gender, age, and education. A strong positive correlation (Spearman's ρ = 0.8) was observed in ranking extension strategies across wards showing consistency in strategy preference pattern. The findings emphasize the importance of aligning extension approaches with demographic characteristics to improve the adoption of sugarcane byproducts in dairy feeding systems.