Research Article
Irish Potato Production and Consumption Amid Climate Change and Variability Among Small Scale Farmers in Narok South Sub- County-Kenya
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 3, September 2025
Pages:
155-169
Received:
3 July 2025
Accepted:
14 July 2025
Published:
30 July 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijnrem.20251003.11
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Abstract: This study explored on Irish potato production and consumption among small scale farmers amid climate change and variability in Narok south sub- county-Kenya. The study employed focus group discussions and cross sectional descriptive survey research methods for data collection. A total of 393 small scale farmers were randomly sampled through multistage sampling procedure for descriptive survey and controlled focus groups discussion. Data from the cross section survey was screened and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 22.0 program to give frequencies and percentages. Chi-square was calculated and inference made at confidence level of α=0.05. focus groups discussion was analysed qualitatively. The results indicated that, majority (71.5%) of the respondents got their Irish potato seeds for planting from previous harvest. Handsomely 64.1% of the respondents responded by indicating that they planted other crops when they lacked Irish potato seeds. The study further indicated that, significant 92.9% of farmers were not taking on any an initiative on value addition method which could enhance their money in their pockets. Majority (76.9%) didn’t know how to make French fries in their homes nor sell it to their neighbours. The study moreover, indicated that a sizeable (35.3%) of the respondents consume Irish potato as an accompaniment to other foods. Further, about 33.2% of the respondents indicated that, they consume Irish potato as main dish. The study also highlighted that 82.3% of the respondents highly observed pest and disease as Irish potato production challenges amid climate change and variability. The study concluded that climate change and variability has influence on Irish potato production and consumption and therefore affecting food security and availability in Narok County. This study therefore recommends that; the agricultural extension agents should endeavour to train farmers on positive potato seed selection or similarly direct farmers where they can get certified quality Irish potato seeds.
Abstract: This study explored on Irish potato production and consumption among small scale farmers amid climate change and variability in Narok south sub- county-Kenya. The study employed focus group discussions and cross sectional descriptive survey research methods for data collection. A total of 393 small scale farmers were randomly sampled through multis...
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Felix Lamech Mogambi Mingate
