DETERMINANTS OF ADOPTION OF IMPROVED AGRICULTURAL TECHNOLOGIES AMONG FARMERS IN THE COFFEE VALUE CHAIN IN BARINGO COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

Agriculture remains a cornerstone of Kenya’s economy, with coffee farming providing vital income and livelihoods for rural households. Despite sustained interventions, adoption of improved agricultural technologies in Baringo County’s coffee value chain remains low. This study examined the determinants of adoption among coffee farmers, focusing on socio-economic factors, input support, and agronomic support services. Guided by Rogers’ Diffusion of Innovations Theory, the study adopted a survey design targeting 1,582 farmers. A sample of 319 households was drawn using random, purposive, proportionate, and systematic sampling. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using the Double Hurdle Model alongside descriptive and inferential statistics. Results revealed that gender (p = 0.001), education (p < 0.001), farm size (p = 0.007), income (p = 0.010), and access to extension services and training (p < 0.001) significantly influenced adoption. In contrast, age (p = 0.116) and income (p = 0.082) showed positive but non-significant effects at the intensity stage. The findings underscore the pivotal role of education, institutional support, and resource endowment in technology uptake. The study recommends strengthening extension services, expanding training opportunities, and providing targeted support to female and smallholder farmers to bridge gaps in resource access and decision-making. These interventions can enhance adoption, improve coffee productivity, and support sustainable livelihoods in Baringo County.