DOI: 10.36347/sjebm.2016.v03i09.006

Pages: 471-480

Agriculture is the most important sector in the Kenya. Crop farming in Mathira East District is characterized by different forms of diversification. However, there is little knowledge on specific drivers of diversification. The main objective of this study was to determine the drivers of distributive and duration-based diversification. The mean-variance (E-V) approach and random utility theories were used to guide the study. Data was collected from150 smallholder farmers using a structured questionnaire. A Tobit regression model was used to identify the determinants of duration and distribution diversification. This study arrived at the finding that smallholder crop farming in the study area is characterized by distribution and duration-based diversification. Crop production risk, level of education, household average income per month and farm size were found to be important factors that influence farmers’ decision to diversify in crop production with respect to their distribution. On the other hand, the variables relating to production risk, level of education and household average income per month were found to be important factors that influence farmers’ decision to diversify in crop production with respect to the duration of cropping seasons. This study recommends that the government should endeavour to enlighten more farmers about the reality of production risks that may affect their crop production activities. The government should provide a conducive environment for farmers to improve their levels of education and household average income per month since these factors may help to boost diversified agriculture that lead to improved standard of living.