Food and nutrition insecurity presents a formidable challenge in rural regions of developing nations, aligning with overarching global development objectives. This study investigates the interdependence between technology adoption, market participation and food and nutrition security in Eastern Africa, focusing on cereal farmers using push-pull technology (PPT). The study used data from five countries, and employed a longitudinal survey, while the statistical analysis was done using logit, and multiple regression models. The measures used were Household Dietary Diversity Score (HDDS), Food Consumption Score (FCS), Food Insecurity Coping Strategy Index (FCSI), and Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES). The findings underscore the importance of PPT adoption in market participation decisions. Furthermore, resource endowment like land size, off-farm income, Tropical Livestock Units (TLU) enhanced market participation. Moreover, market participation enhances dietary diversity and food security, aligning with existing literature. Notably, credit and extension constraints may impede market participation, thus jeopardizing food security, whereas group membership emerges as a positive influencer. The study concludes that interventions geared towards enhancing farmers’ capital base are pivotal for realizing food security objectives. Integration of technologies such as PPT, and advocating for collective action not only facilitates market participation but also augments overall food security for sustainable agri-food systems.
Authors: Murage A. W., Ireri D. M, Maina F. W, Waiswa D, Muriithi B. W.
Contact address: alicemurage@gmail.com
Institution: Kenya Agricultural and livestock Research Organization (KALRO), P.O Box, 57811- 00200 Nairobi
Twitter name of the institution: @kalromkulima
Twitter link: https://x.com/kalromkulima
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