Extension Education Needs for Improved Adoption of Sustainable Organic Agriculture in Central Kenya

Abstract

The study highlights organic agriculture (OA) information gaps that need to be filled in order to upscale the adoption of OA practices. The survey data were gathered from 329 organic farmers selected through stratified random sampling from Central Kenya. An independent t-test, bivariate Moran’s I, and linear multiple regression were used to examine the differences in information access among organic farmers and relate OA advice to its sustainability. Information gaps exist in aspects of soil, water, weed, pest, and disease management. Certified organic farmers significantly differed from non-certified on access to OA advice, t (139.93) = -3.69, p < .05. Extension advice (Moran’s I = .02, p = .01) and sustainability of OA (Moran’s I = .04, p = .01) were slightly clustered. OA advice dimensions significantly accounted for 6% of the variance on the sustainability of OA, F (3, 319) = 6.14, p < .05, R 2 = .06. Improved access to information relating to field management practices; soil, water, weed, pest, and disease management is crucial for sustainable organic crop production. Social networks should be strengthened to enhance information sharing among extension actors in the organic industry. The study adds to the knowledge of the spatial patterns of OA advice and the significance of extension advice on the sustainability of OA. This study illuminates the current knowledge gaps that exist among organic farmers, thus providing a basis upon which extension advice can be repackaged to meet the needs of the farmers.