Significance of Farmers’ Social Networks in the Uptake of Nerica Technology in Migori, Kenya

Uptake of agricultural technologies has remained low in Africa. Social networks may improve the uptake of these technologies in the rural areas where majority of the communities rely on farming. The main objective of this study was to explore how social networks contributed to the uptake of NERICA rice technology. The study was conducted in Migori County, Kenya. Using a mixed-methods approach a survey of 263 NERICA rice farmers was carried out, and 8 focus group discussions (FGD) consisting of 10 to12 people were conducted in Uriri and Awendo Sub Counties. Twenty-two (22) key informant interviews were also conducted with relevant stakeholders in the study area. Quantitative data were analyzed using the SPSS computer software and the results were presented in frequencies and percentages. Qualitative data were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings showed that social networks influenced the adoption of NERICA rice technology in the study area