Factors influencing Honey Production in Marigat, Baringo County Kenya

Abstract

Beekeeping is the maintenance of honey bee colonies in hives. Beekeeping is a viable business that contributes income significantly to many rural households in Marigat, Baringo County. It provides a means of supplementary business and self employment opportunities. Over the years, demand for honey continued to increase while quantity of honey produced declined. The study analyzed the effects of technological, economic, social and institutional factors that influenced quantity of honey produced. The theory of the firm was the theoretical framework of the study. The study adopted a survey design. The research was conducted in Marigat, Baringo County with various regions being sampled to obtain reliable data. Target population of the study was 1,500 bee farmers in the region and a sample size of 134 bee farmers were selected from three divisions. Data was collected using structured interview schedule, group discussion, key informant discussion and observations, analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression. Multiple regression model was estimated by Ordinary Least Squares technique. Results indicated technological, economic, social and institutional factors significantly determined honey production (p – values ranged between from 0.000 – 0.0203 < 0.05). It was concluded that technological, social, economic and institutional factors affected honey production in Marigat, Baringo County. It is important to encourage beekeepers to diversify income in the farm to include other complimentary activities such as beekeeping and agro-forestry. Farmer to farmer advisory services is strengthened in response for services and collaboration with other partners in promoting beekeeping. Enhance development of the subsector through strong extension, research, conservation and rehabilitation of vegetation with integration of beekeeping. Organize beekeepers for efficient marketing of bee products, establishment of colony multiplication center, distribution and conservation of indigenous honeybee race. Women and youths are encouraged to take up beekeeping enterprise. Develop beekeepers skills and extension agents on bee management. Utilize beeswax through intensive trainings, enhance bee forage production and integrate beekeeping with water harvesting. Modify traditional log hive to include queen excluder - section for improved honey quality.