Kenya has one of the most favorable conditions for farming and as such has taken advantage of it.
These farming systems are influenced by factors such as climate, geography, and the socioeconomic conditions of different regions.
Here are some of the major types of farming systems in Kenya:
Subsistence Farming: Subsistence farming is the most common type of farming in Kenya, particularly in rural areas. Farmers grow crops and rear livestock primarily to meet the needs of their families. The focus is on food production for personal consumption rather than for commercial purposes.
Cash Crop Farming: Cash crop farming involves the cultivation of crops primarily for sale in the market rather than for personal consumption. In Kenya, cash crops include tea, coffee, sugarcane, and horticultural crops like flowers and vegetables. These crops are often grown on larger commercial farms.
Livestock Farming: Livestock farming is prevalent throughout Kenya. It includes the rearing of cattle, goats, sheep, poultry, and other animals for meat, milk, eggs, and other by-products. Livestock farming can be both subsistence and commercial, with different regions specializing in specific types of livestock.
Dairy Farming: Kenya has a growing dairy industry, with farmers rearing cattle primarily for milk production. Dairy farming can range from small-scale, household-level production to larger commercial operations. Key dairy products include fresh milk, yogurt, and cheese.
Poultry Farming: Poultry farming is a common agricultural activity, especially among small-scale farmers. Chickens are raised for their meat and eggs, providing a source of income and protein for households. Both broilers (meat chickens) and layers (egg-laying chickens) are raised.
Fish Farming (Aquaculture): Fish farming has gained popularity in Kenya due to the increasing demand for fish. Farmers rear fish species like tilapia and catfish in ponds, tanks, and cages. Fish farming is practiced in various parts of the country, including regions with suitable water bodies.
Mixed Farming: Many Kenyan farmers practice mixed farming, which involves the cultivation of both crops and the rearing of livestock on the same farm. This approach helps diversify income sources and provides a more sustainable farming system.
Horticulture: Horticultural farming involves the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, and flowers for both domestic consumption and export. Kenya is known for its flower export industry, and it also grows various fruits and vegetables for local and international markets.
Agroforestry: Agroforestry is the practice of integrating trees and shrubs with crops and livestock. It helps improve soil fertility, conserve water, and provide additional sources of income through the sale of timber, fruits, and other tree products.
Sericulture: Some regions in Kenya practice sericulture, which involves the rearing of silkworms to produce silk. This is a niche farming system with a focus on silk production.
Farming has been the backbone of Kenya's economy since time immemorial. A large junk of the population solely depends on farming for their basic needs and other needs.
