Knowledge for Development

The role of varietal attributes on adoption of improved seed varieties: the case of sorghum in Kenya

Author:

Date: 28/07/2014

Introduction:

Anne Gesare Timu, of ILRI and colleagues from the University of Nairobi and the Tegemeo Institute of Agricultural Policy and Development, Kenya examined the effect of variety attributes on adoption of improved sorghum varieties in Kenya. Using data from a random sample of 140 farmers, a multivariate probit was used to identify variety-specific drivers of adoption. Farmers perceived that improved varieties had desirable production and marketing attributes while the local varieties had the best consumption attributes. The major attributes driving rapid adoption of sorghum varieties were taste, drought tolerance, yield, ease of cooking, and the ability to fetch a price premium. Early maturity, a major focus of research was found to have no effect on the adoption decision. The findings of the study implies that breeders should focus more on non-yield attributes like taste and ease of cooking to increase adoption and satisfy the multiple needs of the farmers. 

(Agriculture & Food Security, 09/05/2014) 

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