AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION SERVICES FOR DAIRY FARMERS IN WARENG DISTRICT, KENYA.

Agricultural extension information aims at empowering dairy farmers with adequate information for effective and sustainable livestock farming. It is concerned with delivery of messages transmitted through several channels by extension workers. Farmers are expected to use new technologies and develop modern livestock farming practices. The aim of this study was to investigate the extent to which information services offered by the livestock extension workers meet the needs of smallholder dairy farmers in Wareng District. The study was informed by Roger’s Theory of Diffusion of Innovations. A survey research method was applied where qualitative research design was used. The research instruments comprised of interview schedules and documentary reviews. A sample of 105 smallholder dairy farmers from Wareng District and eight key informants from the Ministry of Livestock Development were interviewed. The findings of the study indicate that smallholder dairy farmers in Wareng District have varied information needs. The study established that provision of extension information services is not satisfactory as most of the farmers’ information needs are not met. The study also reveals that a majority of dairy farmers in Wareng District lack adequate information. The study proposes a framework for the delivery of livestock information that provides for information that is not only current but timely and real-time.