Factors Influencing The Performance Of Improved Pastures: A Case Of Lake Bogoria Production Landscape, Kenya

Abstract

Globally, the expanse surrounding the saline lake Bogoria within Baringo County is recognized for different species of wildlife, a rich biological diversity and availability of forage for livestock. Unfortunately, the landscape is threatened by degradation emanating from uncontrolled and unscientific utilization of resources ascending from high livestock numbers and limited naturally occurring livestock feeds. There is wide literature on feed species, production sites and production potential (Simbaya, 2002). Inopportunely, data and information on the performance of enhanced feeds and their repercussions on the environment and community are deficient. The current study focused on aspects of improved feeds production within the area. To achieve this, descriptive study methods were employed covering 6,000 individual households. In order to select 500 representative households and 15 key informants, a multi-stage sampling technique was applied accordingly within the month of October 2019. The validity of that data collection instruments was tested by a psychometrician appropriately. To ensure that the data collected was reliable, testing was done at an alpha level of 0.76. The analysis was conducted using SPSS and presented using descriptive statistics in form of tables and figures. Using the percentage scores derived from scores of Likert-like scale, a Pearson’s Product Moment Correlations was carried out between the various variables. From that analysis, lack of awareness (r=0.64; p=0.0002) and attachment to traditions (r=0.54; p=0.0001) affected greatly the inclination away from value-added livestock feeds production. Therefore, there is need for scaling up of the efforts geared towards dissemination of information and breakage of the strong cultural traditions after armament of capitals