Effects of Rainfall Variability on Maize Production Among the Small-Scale Farmers in Endebess Sub County Between 2008-2018
Abstract
The effects of rainfall variability on maize production among small-scale farmers in Endebess Sub County between 2008-2018 are likely to be multifaceted and can have significant implications for agricultural productivity. Here are some potential effects. Insufficient or irregular rainfall can lead to fluctuations in crop yields. Maize, being a rain-fed crop, is highly dependent on adequate and well-distributed rainfall throughout the growing season. In years of below-average rainfall, there may be reduced soil moisture, affecting germination, plant growth, and ultimately leading to lower maize yields. In periods of low rainfall, water stress and drought conditions may prevail. This can hinder the normal physiological processes of maize plants, affecting photosynthesis, nutrient uptake, and overall crop development. Crop failure may lead to increased vulnerability among small-scale farmers, who often rely on their maize harvest for both sustenance and income. it is therefore imperative to understand effects of rainfall variability on maize production among the small-scale farmers in Endebess Sub County between 2008-2018. The study was based on 330 maize farmers in wards namely; Chepchoina, Matumbei and Endebess. Primary data was obtained from randomly selected farmers through questionnaires, while secondary data on rainfalls and maize production yields was collected from Kitale Meteorological Departments and Endebess Sub-County Ministry of Agriculture offices respectively between 2008-2018. The data collected was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 22 and Precipitations Concentration Index (PCI) values. The finding found that there was a positive relationship between rainfall variability and maize yields. The County government should put measures and policies that are aimed at protecting the forest cover. Forests help reduce the amount of carbon gas in the atmosphere, which is the main cause of climate change that normally led to rainfall variability effects. The related problems of rainfall anomalies are food insecurity, reduction of yield and increase of pest and diseases.
Keywords
Rainfall Variability, Maize Production
Citations
IRE Journals:
Maiyo Jonah Kiprono , Daniel Nyantika , George Tom Ekisa
"Effects of Rainfall Variability on Maize Production Among the Small-Scale Farmers in Endebess Sub County Between 2008-2018" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 7 Issue 8 2024 Page 226-233
IEEE:
Maiyo Jonah Kiprono , Daniel Nyantika , George Tom Ekisa
"Effects of Rainfall Variability on Maize Production Among the Small-Scale Farmers in Endebess Sub County Between 2008-2018" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 7(8)
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