EFFECTS OF AGRICULTURAL PRACTISES ON SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN COUNTY PROJECTS IN KENYA: A CASE STUDY OF NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL AND RURAL INCLUSIVE GROWTH PROJECT IN NANDI COUNTY

Abstract

Agriculture was a critical driver of socio-economic development in Kenya, particularly within rural areas such as Nandi County, where the majority of the population depended on farming for their livelihoods. This study examined the effect of agricultural practices—specifically agroforestry, organic farming, hydroponics and aeroponics, and irrigation farming—on socioeconomic development in Nandi County, under the framework of the National Agricultural and Rural Inclusive Growth Project (NARIGP). The study adopted a descriptive research design employing both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, interviews, and observations to ensure triangulation and enhance validity. The target population consisted of 400 individuals—including farmers, agricultural officers, local government officials, and community leaders—from which a sample of 120 respondents was selected through stratified random sampling. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis, with socio-economic development as the dependent variable and the four agricultural practices as independent variables. Instrument reliability was tested using Cronbach’s Alpha, with a threshold of 0.7, and content validity was ensured through expert review. The study achieved a 100% response rate, with all 120 questionnaires successfully completed, reflecting strong engagement from the community. The findings showed that agroforestry was highly valued for improving soil fertility, crop yields, household income, and employment opportunities, with tree planting being the most widely adopted practice. Organic farming was positively perceived for improving produce quality, food security, and household incomes, despite challenges related to input access and labor. Hydroponics and aeroponics were acknowledged for their water-saving benefits and contribution to food security, although awareness and infrastructure gaps limited their adoption. Irrigation farming was widely recognized for enhancing productivity, stabilizing food availability, and improving incomes, though access challenges remained. Overall, agricultural practices significantly improved household income, food security, employment opportunities, and quality of life in Nandi County, though connections to affordable education and health services required further strengthening. The study recommended that county authorities and stakeholders intensify training, infrastructure investment, market linkages, and supportive policies to scale up sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, it encouraged integrating agricultural gains with social services to promote inclusive and equitable socio-economic development. These findings contributed valuable insights for policymakers, development agencies, and future researchers interested in sustainable rural development in Kenya and similar contexts across sub-Saharan Africa.