AGRONOMY

Introduction to Agriculture in Kenya

Agriculture plays a pivotal role in Kenya's economy, employing over 70% of the rural population and contributing approximately 30% to the country's GDP. This course, Introduction to Agriculture in Kenya, provides an overview of the agricultural practices, policies, and challenges that shape Kenya's agricultural sector. It explores crop and livestock farming, agricultural economics, climate change, sustainable farming practices, and the importance of agriculture in food security and rural development. By understanding the unique agricultural landscape of Kenya, students can appreciate the sector's contributions to the nation’s development and identify areas for innovation and improvement.

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Course Outline

1. Overview of Agriculture in Kenya

Definition and importance of agriculture

Historical development of agriculture in Kenya

The role of agriculture in Kenya’s economy

2. Crop Farming in Kenya

Staple crops: maize, wheat, beans, and others

Horticulture: fruits, vegetables, and flowers

Cash crops: tea, coffee, sugarcane, and others

Challenges and opportunities in crop farming

3. Livestock Farming in Kenya

Types of livestock: cattle, sheep, goats, poultry, etc.

Dairy farming and beef production

Pastoralism and ranching

Livestock health and disease management

4. Agricultural Economics

Agricultural policies and governance

Markets, trade, and the supply chain

Financing agriculture: credit and subsidies

The role of agriculture in poverty reduction

5. Sustainable Agriculture

Climate-smart agricultural practices

Soil and water conservation techniques

Agroforestry and biodiversity preservation

Organic farming and integrated pest management

6. Agricultural Research and Innovation

Role of research institutions in Kenya

Technological innovations in agriculture

Extension services and agricultural education

7. Challenges Facing Agriculture in Kenya

Climate change and its impact on agriculture

Land tenure and land-use issues

Access to markets and infrastructure challenges

Policy, governance, and corruption in the agricultural sector

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Expected Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students should be able to:

1. Understand the importance of agriculture in Kenya and its role in the socio-economic development of the country.

2. Identify key crops and livestock in Kenya, and evaluate the challenges and opportunities in both sectors.

3. Analyze agricultural policies and their impact on the agricultural sector and rural development.

4. Apply knowledge of sustainable agricultural practices to address environmental challenges such as climate change.

5. Evaluate agricultural innovations and their potential to increase productivity and sustainability in Kenya.

6. Assess the challenges facing Kenya's agricultural sector and propose viable solutions for improving food security and rural livelihoods.

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References

Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Irrigation. (2020). Agricultural Sector Transformation and Growth Strategy. Government of Kenya.

Nyoro, J. K., Kirimi, L., & Jayne, T. S. (2004). Competitiveness of Kenyan and Ugandan maize production: Challenges for future growth. Tegemeo Institute of Agricultural Policy and Development. https://www.tegemeo.org

FAO. (2019). Kenya Country Report on Food Security and Agriculture. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.