CHALLENGES FACING BACKYARD POULTRY FARMING PRODUCTION IN URBAN AREAS IN EMBAKASI EAST CONSTITUENCY-NAIROBI COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to investigate the challenges facing backyard poultry farming production in urban areas of Kenya taking Embakasi East Constituency-Nairobi County as a case in point. Specifically, the study sought to establish how farm inputs influence backyard poultry production, determine the socio-economic factors influence backyard poultry production, determine how technology adaptation influence backyard poultry production and finally explore how availability of Market influence backyard poultry production in Embakasi East Constituency in Nairobi County- Kenya. Data was collected from a sample of 90 back-yard poultry farmers derived from a target population of 300 farmers who were registered with Embakasi East Nairobi County Government. Purposive and cluster sampling techniques was applied in selecting the farmers included in the sample size. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative data through thematic analysis. The questionnaires and interview guide instruments were used to collect data. The quantitative information from the questionnaires was coded, keyed into a computer and the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to analyze data. Qualitative information from interviews was arranged and presented in narrative forms and direct quote. The study was anchored on three theories namely: Ecological Systems Theory that explores how different environmental systems shape human behavior and activities, Sustainable Livelihoods Approach (SLA), which explores how people use assets and capabilities to sustain livelihoods, and Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), which explains that behavior is determined by attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control. The study emphasized the importance of understanding challenges facing backyard poultry farming in urban areas in order to effectively develop interventions and policies that promote and enhance the sustainability of this agricultural practice. The study aim was to contribute to the knowledge base by providing insights into the key challenges facing backyard poultry farming. By conducting this analysis, the researcher intended to identify the challenges and opportunities surrounding this practice in urban areas of Kenya. Key findings reveals that poultry farmers face significant challenges related to access, resources, and knowledge, general trend of limited adoption of modern poultry technologies among respondents. Backyard poultry farmers face significant challenges related to market availability and also key structural weaknesses identified in marketing strategy, market accessibility, and distribution networks. The study recommends addressing these systemic barriers and through coordinated efforts, stakeholders can significantly improve the livelihoods of smallholder poultry farmers and unlock the potential of backyard poultry as a viable and sustainable income-generating activity.