Participatory Assessment of the Efficacy of Indigenous Chicken Value Chain Practices Among Smallholder Farmers in Kericho County, Kenya

Indigenous chickens play a vital role in rural livelihoods, particularly in developing countries. However, their productivity faces challenges such as poor feeding, housing, healthcare, and inadequate husbandry practices. While research has explored these issues using qualitative and quantitative methods, underlying contextual factors are often overlooked. Guided by the Value chain model and Grounded theory, this study evaluated indigenous chicken value chain (VC) through a contextual lens, emphasizing context-specific knowledge. The objective was to assess the efficacy of the indigenous chicken VC practices in Kericho County, Kenya, through a participatory approach. A community-based participatory action research design was employed, with samples drawn using purposive and multistage sampling techniques. Based on Yamane’s sample size formula, a sample of 398 farmers was drawn from among rural-based indigenous chicken farmers. 15 key stakeholders also participated in the study. Data collection focussed mostly on qualitative approaches, using participatory rural appraisal tools like focus group discussions, observation during transect walks and community workshops. Quantitative data were collected using interview schedules. Data were analyzed using Grounded theory methods and descriptive statistics. The study identified five segments in the VC: breeding for eggs, incubation and hatching, chick brooding and rearing, flock management, and marketing. However, the chain lacked processing segment, with most products reaching consumers through intermediaries. There was weak integration of actors within the VC. In conclusion, producers’ practices contributed to efficacies in the indigenous chicken VC through: genetic diversity preservation, resilience-building, rational decision-making, self-sufficiency, bio-economy, complementary healthcare, and market embedded practices. Challenges included economic constraints, epistemic limitations, weak institutional support, weak infrastructure, and risk aversion. To enhance the productivity of the VC, community financing models, capacity-building, formation and strengthening of producer organizations, cooperative marketing, and partnerships with local government for infrastructure development are recommended.