Homegrown School Feeding Programme (HGSFP) and Agricultural Production by Small-Scale Farmers in Mwala Sub-County, Machakos County, Kenya

Gladys Bonareri Okumu & Wilkins Ndege Muhingi
The Catholic University of Eastern Africa
Corresponding Author Email: bonareriokumu@gmail.com

Abstract: The study examined the effect of Homegrown School Feeding Programme on agricultural production among smallscale farmers in Mwala sub-county of Machakos county, Kenya. A descriptive cross sectional design was adopted for the study targeting a population of small-scale farmers in farmers’ organisations where 310 respondents were sampled. Stratified, simple random and purposive sampling techniques were employed to select the sample. Structured questionnaires, structured interview guides and focused group discussion guides were employed in data collection. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Means, percentages and standard deviation were calculated summarised in tables and presented in graphs. Multiple linear regression analysis was worked to determine relationship among the variables and extent of the relationship that existed. Qualitative data was categorised and analysed thematically. The findings revealed that homegrown school feeding had a positive effect on agricultural production. The mediating effect of World Food Programme had a small but positive effect on how homegrown school feeding influences agricultural production. Moderating effect of environmental forces had a reducing effect. The study concluded that the structured demand created in primary schools by homegrown school feeding has not stimulated agricultural production by small-scale farmers in Mwala sub-county to a large extent. The study recommends that the government of Kenya, through ministry of Education revises procurement procedures guiding food supply to schools to make them small holder friendly. Further, a segment of the food markets in schools should be reserved for the SSFs in farmers’ organisations to help stimulate farmers to increase food production.