Effectiveness of Training Farmers on Sugarcane Gleaning during Loading in Reducing Post-Harvest Loss among Smallholder Farmers in Awendo Sub-County, Kenya

Abstract

Post-harvest sugarcane loss (PHSL) experienced in the sugarcane production process reduces incomes of smallholder farmers worldwide who invest their limited resources. As a result, Sony Sugar Company instituted infield practices in 2011 to reduce PHSL within its cane catchment areas. Training of farmers on sugarcane gleaning forms part of the company’s quasi-public extension (QPE) service to reduce PHSL. However, limited information is available on its effectiveness. In order to fill this gap, this study sought to examine effectiveness of training of farmers on sugarcane gleaning during loading in reducing PHSL among smallholder farmers in Awendo Sub-County. The study was guided by Theory of Change (ToC) using descriptive survey design. A sample of 105 contracted smallholder farmers were obtained from accessible population of 2,403 farmers distributed proportionately across North-East, Central, South and West Sakwa wards. The sample was increased by 40% to 147 taking cognizance that questionnaire was to be used to collect data. Cronbach’s Alpha Coefficients for questionnaires were 0.749 for smallholder farmers’ and 0.711 for other stakeholders. Only 132 smallholder farmers’ questionnaires were valid giving 89.8% response rate. Descriptive statistics and spearman’s correlation were used to analyze data using SPSS version 21. Positive relationships were realized between PHSL and training farmers on sugarcane gleaning (r (130) = .142, p > .05.).  This study recommends that farmers or their agents should enhance their participation on sugarcane gleaning and attend aligned trainings by the company. Sony Sugar Company should enhance training of farmers on sugarcane gleaning during loading. County and National governments should formulate sound policies to safe guard farmers.