IMPROVED MIXED-METHOD FARMING AND FOOD SECURITY IN KENYA: A CASE OF KENYA CEREALS ENHANCED PROGRAMME IN MWINGI WEST SUB-COUNTY, KITUI COUNTY

Abstract

ABSTRACT Realization of food security entails numerous strategies farming programmes being one of them among others. If these numerous farming strategies are adopted, they can enhance increased food security across the world and particularly in Mwingi West. The study sought to examine “Improved Mixed-Method Farming and Food Security in Kenya: a Case of Kenya Cereals enhanced Programme in Mwingi West Sub-County, Kitui County”. The objectives of the study were; to assess the situation of food security among residents; to examine on the existing farming methods and how they promote food security; to determine the extent to which improved mixed farming through KCEP has enhanced food security, and to explore how enhanced skills training in mixed farming can promote food security. The study was anchored on the diffusion of innovation theory and the theory of change. Mixed methods research approach focusing on descriptive research design was adopted. The study targeted 79, 255 from which, a sample size of 400 was selected using Yamane formula. Snow-ball sampling technique was used to identify the respondents in the study. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected utilizing questionnaires and interview guides respectively. Quantitative data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 25 and presented in frequency tables and figures while qualitative data was analyzed through thematic content analysis and presented in narrations. The study revealed that food security is not guaranteed in Mwingi West and that the existing methods have been contributing to food security in Mwingi West. KCEP through its farming methods has been instrumental in improving food security in Mwingi West with enhanced skills training contributing greatly to the realization of food security. The study recommended that the County Government of Kitui should strive to implement proposed solutions to the challenges of food security and encourage collaborations with KCEP so that upon her exit, KCEP program can be sustained. There should also be value addition on Farm products to enhance food security. Importantly, farmers should turn to modern farming by adopting new farming skills to increase food security.