Abstract:
Abstract
The implementation of World Bank- and IMF-funded
structural adjustment programs of the economy
by Government of Kenya negatively affected smallholder farmers’ production due to cost of agricultural
inputs rising faster than the prices of agricultural produce. Concurrently, effects of the variability of
precipitation patterns intrinsically link in shaping local-level households’ vulnerability.
Drawing from field study data informed by longitudinal methodology of approach on crop variety
selection and crisis-coping experiences, the overriding issue addressed in this paper is how smallholder
farmers in Central Kenya cope and adapt with the changes. The study provides both place-based and
household-based understanding of the livelihood security strategies available to and undertaken by the
farmers.
Annual net income levels of 40 sample households are estimated and
the production aspect of the
household economy classified into five sectors: agricultural, livestock, non-farm, off-farm, and forest
product extraction. An operationalization of the notion of livelihood strategies reveals the strategy in which
households choose and combine options across the
five sectors on the basis of crisis experiences.
Examination of smallholders’ crop variety selection identifies a multiplicity of criteria upon which
decisions are based. These are grouped into five expl
anatory factors: geographic, economic, administrative,
socio-cultural and agronomic.
The paper argues that an effective understanding of smallholders’ coping and adaptive capabilities has
important implications for adaptation policy. It can provide a basis for designing policies aimed at rural
livelihood security improvement and also help to facilitate outside planners who engage in food security
programs which can be built on existing livelihood strategies.
