Status and determinants of Moringa cultivation in selected semi-arid counties of Kenya

This study examined the status and determinants of Moringa cultivation in selected semi-arid Counties of Kenya. The contention of this study is that climate variability and recurrent drought challenge agricultural production in Kenya’s semi-arid areas, increasing interest in resilient and multipurpose crops such as Moringa. The study is based on data from 148 purposively selected Moringa-producing households in Tharaka-Nithi, Makueni, TaitaTaveta and Kilifi. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests and binary logistic regression were applied. Species distribution differed significantly across Counties (χ² = 40.40, p < .001), with M. oleifera predominant in Makueni, Tharaka-Nithi and Kilifi and M. stenopetala dominant in Taita-Taveta. Land size was consistently associated with M. oleifera adoption, while household size was important for both species. Gender and land tenure were also significant for selected species and Counties. Farmer-to-farmer networks were major sources of information and planting materials. The findings support locally differentiated, gender responsive interventions for quality planting materials, agronomic knowledge and commercialization.