Determinants of market participation and intensity among smallholder sorghum farmers in Western Kenya: Implications for agricultural commercialisation and food security

Despite Sorghum ( Sorghum bicolor ) potential to enhance food security and livelihoods, the commercialisation of sorghum remains limited, with most production occurring under subsistence farming systems. Our study evaluates determinants of the decision to participate in the sorghum market and the intensity of participation among smallholder farmers in Western Kenya. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 300 farming households. Using the Heckman two-step sample selection model, our study evaluated the propensity to participate in the market and the intensity of participation. Out of the 300 households sampled, 103 (34%) participated in sorghum markets. We found that education (β = 0.63, p = 0.048), hired labour (β = 1.20, p < 0.001), log land size (β = 0.62, p = 0.070), group membership (β = 1.19, p < 0.001), occupation (β = 0.86, p = 0.018), market information (β = 2.06, p < 0.001), radio ownership (β = 0.0.51, p = 0.049), mobile ownership (β = 0.65, p = 0.045), distance to market (β = -0.35, p = 0.037), and geographical location (β = 1.18, p < 0.001) significantly determined market participation level. The intensity of participation was significantly predicted by education (β = 0.135, p < 0.001), log age (β = -0.53, p = 0.043), log family size (β = -0.267, p < 0.001), hired labour (β = 0.111, p = 0.002), radio ownership (β = 0.156, p < 0.001), mobile ownership (β = 0.213, p < 0.001) and distance to market (β = -0.160, p = 0.002). Our findings suggest that enhancing access to market information and promoting group membership can increase sorghum market participation and improve commercialisation. Policies aimed at improving rural infrastructure, strengthening agricultural cooperatives, and expanding educational opportunities for farmers are crucial for enhancing market access and supporting sorghum commercialisation. • The Heckman two-step model used to assess market participation and intensity • Sorghum market participation is driven by education, labor, and land size • Access to market information and group membership enhances market participation • Larger family size negatively impacts the intensity of sorghum market participation