Abstract
Cereals and legumes play a major role in the production systems and diets of farmers in the semi-arid eastern region of Kenya. Efficient postharvest management can tremendously contribute to food security in these regions. A study was carried out in three counties in eastern Kenya to assess pre and postharvest management practices among farmers. Data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires designed and administered using Kobo Toolbox via android tablets. Results showed that farmers cultivated three main crops: maize (98%), beans 66%), and pigeon peas (28%). The most saved seed crops were beans (80%) and pigeon peas (50%). Majority of the farmers (80%) experienced pre-drying losses due to insects (48%), rodents (40%) and birds (39%). Farmers stored grain for consumption (80%) and for sale (19%). About 48% of farmers stored the grain for more than 9 months. Challenges during grain storage were insects (57%) and rodents (43%). Primary methods of grain preservation included hermetic methods (61%) followed by insecticides (33%). While progress is being made in addressing storage challenges, there still a need to continue building awareness about improved storage technologies and find solutions for pest infestations in the field and drying after harvest.
Highlights
Cereals and legumes are the most important food staples in Sub-Saharan Africa (Abate et al, 2012; Macauley & Ramadjita, 2015)
Among the respondents: 64% were female, 87% were married, 49% were above 50 years of age, and 57% had more than a high school education
This may be a hindrance to adoption of new technologies which has a negative impact on food security
Summary
Cereals and legumes are the most important food staples in Sub-Saharan Africa (Abate et al, 2012; Macauley & Ramadjita, 2015). They are often grown alone or in intercropping systems (Van Duivenbooden et al, 2000). In Kenya, grain production and national consumption patterns do not tally This is common, especially for maize, as it does not meet national demand (Gitonga et al, 2013). It is important to understand farmers’ pre and postharvest management practices of key important cereal and legume grains in the semi-arid region of Eastern Kenya to improve food security and income of farm households
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