Determinants of Farmer Participation in Dairy Innovation Platforms: The Case of Selected Milk sheds in Kenya

This study evaluated the determinants of participation in Dairy Innovation Platforms (DIPs) in five key milking producing counties in Kenya. The study used primary data collected from 665 farmers. Two types of farmers were surveyed: participants and non-participants of Dairy Innovation Platform (DIP) activities. The results of the binary probit model showed that household size, perception of human capacity building on improved benefits, land under fodder, social capital had positive significant influence on participation. However, distance to the milk collection centers and number of milking cows had negative significant effect on participation on farmers in the platform activities. We conclude that perception is a key driver to participation. The study recommends increased awareness on the benefits of innovation platforms; would make more households participate in DIPs. Also, policy makers should target households with substantial land for fodder as well as those already in groups to enhance participation in DIPs.