Constraints to adoption and sustained use of modern apiculture among marginal households in Baringo and Makueni Counties, Kenya

Apiculture is globally embraced and offers considerable income-generating potential. This potential is significant in Kenya, especially in arid and semi-arid regions (ASALs). Despite efforts by government agencies, Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs), and development partners to encourage adoption of modern apiculture techniques, usage remains low. Most farmers continue to use traditional methods, resulting in minimal economic output. Understanding the challenges to adopting modern practices is crucial for promoting effective uptake. The primary objective of this study was to identify the obstacles to the adoption and sustained use of modern apiculture among marginal households in Baringo and Makueni Counties, Kenya. A total of 250 respondents were chosen using a multi-stage sampling method, with 130 from Baringo and 120 from Makueni. Data collection involved semi-structured questionnaires, and descriptive statistics were used for analysis. The findings reveal that farmers face various obstacles, including inadequate equipment and materials (25.6%), insufficient capital (22.4%), drought and famine (14.0%), market inaccessibility (11.6%), lack of knowledge and skills (11.2%), cultural barriers (8.8%), predators (4.8%), destruction of woody vegetation, and insufficient time (1.6%). This study will serve as a basis for formulating policies that promote the adoption of modern apiculture practices among beekeepers in Baringo and Makueni Counties of Kenya.