THE ROLE OF AGRICULTURAL INPUTS IN STRENGTHENING HOUSEHOLD FOOD SECURITY: A CASE OF MURANG’A COUNTY, KENYA

Objectives: This study examines the role of agricultural inputs in strengthening household food security in Murang’a County, Kenya. It evaluates the accessibility, affordability, and utilization of improved seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and mechanization, and their impact on food production, accessibility, and stability. Theoretical Framework: Grounded in the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework (SLF) and the Theory of Agricultural Innovation Diffusion, this study explores how livelihood assets and technology adoption influence food security. SLF posits that households achieve food security by leveraging financial, human, and physical capital, while the Innovation Diffusion Theory explains the adoption of agricultural technologies based on perceived benefits and access to information. Method: A mixed-methods approach was employed, collecting quantitative data from 383 respondents through structured questionnaires and qualitative insights via key informant interviews. Descriptive statistics, regression, and correlation analyses were used to assess relationships between agricultural input access and food security. Results and Discussion: Findings indicate a significant positive correlation (r = 0.201, p < 0.05) between access to quality agricultural inputs and household food security. Households utilizing improved inputs reported higher yields, better dietary diversity, and reduced vulnerability to food shortages. However, challenges such as high input costs, inadequate credit access, and limited extension services hinder effective utilization, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. Research Implications: Policymakers should integrate community-inclusive, results-based monitoring and evaluation systems into agricultural projects. Recommendations include capacity building, technological adoption for real-time data, and fostering stakeholder collaboration to ensure long-term sustainability. Originality/Value: This research provides localized insights into the link between agricultural inputs and food security. It presents a replicable model for enhancing food security in similar rural contexts through strategic agricultural input management and systematic evaluation frameworks.