factors related to the use of artificial insemination by subsistence dairy farmers in Bomet District, Kenya

Abstract

Artificial insemination (AI) could be cost-effective in reducing breeding inefficiency that constrains Kenya's dairy production. This study examined factors related to AI use and sought to determine the relationship between AI use and farmers' personal characteristics, their experiences with AI and AI-service situation. A validated questionnaire with an alpha reliability of 0.80 at α = 0.05 was used on a sample of 210 randomly selected diary farmers in Bomet District. Results show that availability of the service and farmers' formal education, knowledge of AI, experience with AI, income sources, record keeping, and heat detection ability significantly influenced farmers' use of AI. Other factors were bull dominance, extension education coverage, marketing and livestock diseases. Cost of AI and farmers' personal characteristics such as age and gender did not significantly affect their use of AI. To improve dairy production, service providers should make AI more accessible; educate farmers on breeding to enhance their appreciation of AI; encourage record keeping, and help improve milk marketing, disease control, and communication infrastructure.

International Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development Vol. 5 2004: 164-175