Influence of Attitudes and Perceptions on Sustainable Farming Practices among the Maasai Community in Kajiado County, Kenya

Abstract

Sustainable farming in pastoral and agro-pastoral systems is shaped not only by ecological and economic factors but also by farmers’ attitudes and perceptions. This study assessed the extent to which attitudes and perceptions influence sustainable farming practices among the Maasai community in Kajiado County, Kenya. A mixed-methods research design was employed, involving a household survey of 320 respondents, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. The results indicate that environmental stewardship attitudes, cultural valuation of land, perceived benefits of sustainable farming, perception of land degradation risk, and trust in indigenous knowledge systems significantly influence sustainable farming practices (R² = 0.54, p < .05). The study concludes that attitudes and perceptions play a substantial role in shaping sustainability-oriented behaviour among the Maasai and recommends that agricultural policies and extension programs integrate socio-cultural and cognitive dimensions alongside technical and economic interventions to enhance the adoption of sustainable farming practices. technical interventions.