Open Access

Dianah Abuyega

• CA has been promoted by various agricultural stakeholders for its ability to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability. However, despite all these efforts, the uptake of CA in Lurambi subcounty, Kenya, remains low among smallholder maize farmers. The main objective of this study was to assess the economic impact of conservation agriculture practices on smallholder maize farmers in Lurambi Subcounty, Kenya. The study worked on three objectives, including determining the extent of CA adoption, factors that influence the adoption and the economic impacts on yields, input demand and income. The research used a mixed method design, which involves both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The data used in this study was collected from a sample size of 49 smallholder farmers by use of questionnaires and interviews. The data was later coded and analysed by used of excel. Descriptive statistics summarized the farm and demographic characteristics while, inferential analysis such as multiple linear regression and t-test was used to determine factors influencing adoption, economic impact of CA on input demand and yields. Finally, the study analysed the impact of CA on income levels through calculation of gross margin hence economic profit was derived. The findings of the study indicate that CA was lowly adopted with adoption rate of 29%. Use of herbicides and residue retention were the most adopted CA practices while cover cropping was the least adopted. Lack of training, access to equipment and initial high costs emerged as key barriers to adoption of CA. The regression analysis revealed that size of land, input/financial subsidies, education and years of farming were key factors influencing the adoption of CA practices. T test results indicated that yields From CA farmers were relatively higher than those of conventional farmers, and labour demand was also high for non-adopters. Gross margin results also revealed that CA farmers have a relatively higher income compared to conventional farming. Therefore, this study's findings suggest that CA is an economically profitable farming method. The full adoption of CA practices and support from stakeholders is key to achieving these benefits. To promote wider uptake of CA, future interventions should focus on targeted training, financial support or subsidies and access to CA equipment.