Sugarcane farming practices and household income levels nexus: A case of Ndhiwa Sub-County, Homa Bay County, Kenya

Abstract

Sugarcane farming is the main economic activity in Ndhiwa sub County. While the activity remains an important source of rural livelihoods, there is limited research with regards to the contribution of sugarcane farming to household income. While its contribution to rural incomes is significant, limited empirical evidence exists on how different dimensions of sugarcane production including land allocation, farming practices, labor structures, payment systems, and value chain participation affect household income. Most of the studies have laid emphasis on the levels of sugarcane production and the relationship between sugarcane millers and farmers. This leaves a knowledge gap with regards to livelihood dynamics and sugarcane farming income dynamics. Thus, this study sought to determine the nexus between sugarcane farming practices and household income levels in Ndhiwa sub-County.   The study was guided by the Agricultural Location Theory by Von Thünen (1826) and the Sustainable Livelihoods Approach (SLA) by DFID (1999). It was based on Cross-sectional descriptive survey design with mixed method approach. The sample size of the study was 418 respondents. Stratified random sampling was used with the seven wards in the sub-County serving as strata. Questionnaires, interview schedule and focus group discussions were the main data collection tools. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics and Chi square tests. The findings indicated that 55.5% of the respondents were cultivating between 1 and 3 acres of sugarcane. Additionally, most of the farmers relied on sugarcane as their main source of livelihood. However, 57% of the respondents cited delays in payment as a major challenge that affects their income levels. This research concluded that most of the farmers in Ndiwa sub County highly depend on sugarcane farming for their livelihood but delayed payments affect their income. The study recommends increased access to agricultural extension services and education to farmers. In addition, the sugar millers should ensure there is a payment structure to improve payment duration to between 30 and 45 days after delivering cane to the millers.