AGRO-ECOLOGICAL PRACTICES AND PRODUCTIVITY OF SMALL-SCALE CROP FARMING IN TAITA TAVETA COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

Statement of the Problem: Agro-ecological practices offer a sustainable approach to improving productivity and environmental resilience in small-scale crop farming systems, especially in resource-constrained regions. However, with increasing challenges such as soil degradation, unpredictable rainfall patterns, and declining yields, there is a growing need to evaluate alternative farming systems that align with ecological principles and farmer livelihoods. Purpose of the Study: The study aimed to investigate the influence of agro-ecological practices on the productivity of small-scale crop farmers in Taita Taveta County, Kenya. Research Methodology: The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional design using stratified random sampling to select 380 small-scale farmers across the sub-counties of Taveta, Mwatate, Voi and Taita. Data was collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using logistic regression to determine the relationship between agro-ecological practices such as intercropping, crop rotation, use of organic inputs, and soil moisture conservation and farm productivity indicators like yield per acre, net income, and crop diversification. Findings: The findings reveal that farmers who consistently apply agro-ecological techniques experience significantly higher productivity compared to those relying on conventional inputs. Moreover, farmer characteristics such as training, experience, and access to extension services enhance the effectiveness of agro-ecological practices.