Level of knowledge on quality standards of high value markets in Kenya among indigenous vegetable women farmers in Kakamega county

Abstract

African indigenous vegetable (AIV) farmers have limited information in the areas for training and readiness to access and produce vegetables to satisfy the growing demands by retailers in Kenya. This study assessed the level of knowledge among women AIV farmers in Kakamega County to satisfy quality standards for high value markets (HVMs). Descriptive survey design, multistage sampling technique and interview schedule were used to collect data from 276 farmers. The study revealed that farmers had low knowledge on quality standards especially the transaction attributes. The public extension was the main source of information. The study recommends among others that the Ministry of Agriculture train farmers on AIV production and marketing and develop trade policy to ensure that retailers purchase vegetables from certified local farmers