Factors determining integrated soil fertility management in central Kenya highlands: Participatory Learning and Action (PLAR) model analysis

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a participatory learning and action research (PLAR) model analysis of factors determining integrated soil fertility management among subsistence smallholders in central highlands of Kenya. The data was collected during three days PLAR model guided focus group discussions in Mukanduini village of Central division of Kirinyaga district in Kenya. The objectives of the study were: (i) to guide farmers through participatory identification and ranking of key socio-economic and bio-physical factors that influence integrated soil fertility management (ISFM), and (ii) to guide farmers through participatory identification and ranking of probable solutions to identified problems.

The PLAR model analysis of the study was able to categorize the farmers in the village into three groups on the basis of existing ISFM on their farm holdings, and on wealth status. The key community-level factors constraining ISFM were: rainfall/moisture, low crop yields, poor markets, and low livestock yields. The farm-level factors constraining ISFM were identified to be: lack of proper soil and water conservation methods, lack of adequate soil nutrient amelioration, improper soil residue management, and poor tillage systems. Suggested solutions included increased use of inorganic fertilizers, optimal quantities of organic inputs, proper management and use of crop residues, incorporation of agroforestry species in cropping system, practicing crop rotation, installation of soil and water conservation measures, deep tillage, and planting crops like cassava and sweet potato, which give reasonable crop yields in poor soils.