Dairy Production Constraints in Kericho and Bomet Counties of Kenya: Evidence from Farmers Fields

Omunyin, M. E., Ruto, J., Yegon, M. K. A., Bii, F

Abstract: A survey was conducted to analyze constraints to dairy production in Kericho and Bomet Counties in Kenya. Primary data was collected, using structured questionnaire and validated interview schedule, from 151 dairy farmers who were selected using purposive and simple random sampling techniques. The study aimed to characterize dairy production and prioritize constraints and opportunities for development. It revealed that the leading production constraint was inadequate livestock feeds (22.5 %) while the least was tick control (1.8 %). The top disease constraint was East Cost Fever (E. C. F. ), rated at 43.1 %. The study further revealed that the main feed resources were the grasses Pennisetum clandestinum (1.850.26) acres, Pennisetum purpureum (0.370.04) acres and Chloris gayana (0.160.03) acres. Alleviation of the identified constraints would improve dairy cattle production in the area.

Keywords: survey, dairy cattle, production constraints, Kericho, Bomet, Kenya