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Technological Determinants of Dairy Cow Milk Production Among Small-Scale Farmers in Marakwet East Sub-County, Elgeyo-Marakwet County, Kenya

Received: 18 December 2025     Accepted: 29 December 2025     Published: 20 January 2026
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Abstract

Small-scale dairy farming plays a critical role in food security, rural livelihoods, and nutritional improvement in many developing economies. Across Sub-Saharan Africa, the dairy sector is predominantly smallholder-based; however, productivity remains persistently low due to limited adoption of modern dairy production technologies and inadequate access to support services. In Marakwet East Sub-County, Elgeyo-Marakwet County, small-scale dairy farmers continue to experience low milk yields per cow and per household, threatening household incomes, food security, and the sustainability of the local dairy value chain. Identifying context-specific technological constraints is therefore essential for designing effective policy and extension interventions. This study examined the technological factors influencing dairy cow milk production among 196 small-scale dairy farmers in Marakwet East Sub-County. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, and primary data were collected using structured questionnaires administered to farm households. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics to assess the level of adoption of dairy production technologies and multiple linear regression to estimate the effects of selected technological variables on milk production. The results revealed generally low adoption of key dairy technologies. Only 42.9% of farmers used artificial insemination, 28% accessed deworming services, 26% accessed vaccination services, 17.3% adopted high-yielding fodder and pasture, and 21.4% kept improved dairy breeds. Average annual milk production per household was 2,925 liters, while average milk production per cow was 975 liters per year, equivalent to 4.5 liters per cow per day, values that are substantially below the national benchmark of approximately 10 liters per cow per day. Multiple linear regression analysis indicated that use of artificial insemination, access to deworming services, adoption of high-yielding fodder and pasture, access to improved feeds such as hay and silage, and adoption of improved dairy breeds had positive and statistically significant effects on milk production. Other technologies, including mechanized milking, milk cooling facilities, and digital platforms, did not show significant effects, largely due to their very low adoption levels among farmers. The findings demonstrate that technological adoption is a critical determinant of milk productivity among small-scale dairy farmers. Addressing existing technological gaps through affordable breeding services, improved animal health management, enhanced feed systems, and strengthened extension support is essential for increasing milk production, improving household incomes, and contributing to Kenya’s broader food security and agricultural transformation goals.

Published in International Journal of Agricultural Economics (Volume 11, Issue 1)
DOI 10.11648/j.ijae.20261101.11
Page(s) 1-15
Creative Commons

This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.

Copyright

Copyright © The Author(s), 2026. Published by Science Publishing Group

Keywords

Technological Factors, Small-Scale Dairy Farmers, Livestock, Cow Milk Production, Marakwet East Sub-County, Kenya

1. Introduction
Dairy production is a fundamental component of modern food systems and makes substantial contributions to human nutrition, rural livelihoods, and economic development, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Globally, milk production exceeded 930 million tonnes in 2021, with a significant share originating from small-scale dairy systems in developing regions . Despite this contribution, marked productivity disparities persist across regions. While dairy systems in high-income countries commonly achieve 20-30 liters of milk per cow per day, production levels in low-income countries often remain below 10 liters per cow per day . These disparities reflect structural and technological gaps rather than biological limitations, and are closely associated with limited uptake of productivity-enhancing dairy technologies.
Low adoption of key innovations such as artificial insemination, improved dairy breeds, feed conservation technologies, mechanized milking, and veterinary health services continues to constrain productivity in small-scale dairy systems . Empirical evidence consistently shows that adoption of improved breeding and feeding technologies leads to significant gains in milk yield, farm income, and overall production efficiency . However, access to these technologies remains uneven, particularly among small-scale farmers facing financial, institutional, and infrastructural constraints.
In Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), the dairy sector is overwhelmingly dominated by small-scale producers and is characterized by persistently low productivity, with average yields ranging between 2 and 8 liters per cow per day . Weak veterinary infrastructure, limited availability of breeding services, and inadequate feed conservation and processing facilities further exacerbate production inefficiencies . Adoption of artificial insemination and improved dairy breeds in many SSA countries rarely exceeds 25%, while uptake of improved feed technologies often remains below 20% . These limitations negatively affect herd health, reduce productive potential, and increase the unit cost of milk production. Studies from Uganda, Tanzania, and Ethiopia consistently identify poor technological access and low adoption rates as primary drivers of underperformance in small-scale dairy systems .
Kenya provides a useful national context for understanding these challenges. The dairy sector contributes over 12% of agricultural gross domestic product and supports millions of rural households, yet average milk yields remain modest at approximately 7-8 liters per cow per day . High costs of services, irregular availability of artificial insemination, limited farmer awareness, and weak extension support continue to suppress adoption of improved technologies . Furthermore, technologies such as feed processing, vaccination services, and mechanized milking equipment are rarely used, even in high-potential dairy regions where their economic returns would be substantial . Recent evidence from Meru County also demonstrates that technology adoption is clustered and strongly influenced by education levels, cooperative membership, and access to infrastructure .
At the local level, Elgeyo-Marakwet County reflects many of these national and regional patterns. Small-scale dairy systems in Marakwet East Sub-County are predominantly characterized by indigenous or low-grade crossbred cattle, minimal feeding regimes, and limited access to veterinary and extension services . Although county-led programs promote artificial insemination and breed improvement, adoption remains inconsistent and uneven . Uptake of feed innovations such as silage making and fodder conservation is similarly low due to capital constraints, limited technical training, and weak cooperative support structures . In addition, the use of modern digital technologies for extension, pregnancy diagnosis, and feed processing is almost non-existent, restricting farmers’ access to timely information and improved management practices . This low-technology production environment limits productivity growth and weakens integration of small-scale dairy farmers into quality-sensitive milk markets.
There is therefore a clear need to deepen understanding of technology adoption patterns and their productivity implications among small-scale dairy farmers in Marakwet East Sub-County. Examining adoption across breeding technologies, animal health services, feeding systems, milking and cooling infrastructure, and digital communication tools provides critical insight into the technological constraints shaping milk production outcomes. This study assesses the effects of these technological factors on dairy cow milk production to inform targeted policy interventions, extension strategies, and investment priorities aimed at enhancing milk productivity, household incomes, and the long-term sustainability of small-scale dairy systems in Marakwet East and comparable rural settings.
2. Methodology
2.1. Study Area
This study was conducted in Marakwet East Sub-County, one of the administrative units of Elgeyo-Marakwet County, formerly part of the Rift Valley Province in Kenya. It is bordered by West Pokot County to the north, Baringo County to the east, Trans-Nzoia County to the west, and Uasin Gishu County and Marakwet West Sub-County to the south. According to the 2019 Kenya Population and Housing Census, the sub-county consists of four wards—Kapyego, Embobut/Embolot, Endo, and Sambirir—with a total area of 784.3 km². Kapyego covers 308.6 km², Embobut/Embolot 151.8 km², Endo 178.6 km², and Sambirir 145.3 km². The total population is approximately 97,041, with the following distribution: Kapyego 21,268, Embobut/Embolot 19,794, Endo 28,905, and Sambirir 27,709 .
Marakwet East Sub-County has three distinct agro-ecological zones: highlands, escarpments, and the valley floor. The highlands cover 49% of the area and include Kapyego, Chesoi, and Embobut/Embolot. These areas experience favorable climatic conditions for dairy cow rearing, sheep production, and the cultivation of maize, peas, and beans . The escarpment accounts for 11% of the area and supports crops such as maize, millet, and sorghum. The valley floor is largely semi-arid, suitable for limited subsistence farming and livestock keeping.
The area is dominated by small-scale farming, with average landholdings of 1-6 acres, while few large-scale farmers possess up to 17.3 acres . The main crops include maize, beans, potatoes, cowpeas, green grams, and finger millet, alongside fruits such as mangoes, avocados, bananas, and pawpaws . Livestock kept includes dairy cows, local cattle, dairy goats, poultry, and sheep, producing milk, meat, eggs, hides, and skins.
This study was conducted in Marakwet East Sub-County, an administrative unit of Elgeyo-Marakwet County, formerly part of the Rift Valley Province in Kenya. The sub-county is bordered by West Pokot County to the north, Baringo County to the east, Trans-Nzoia County to the west, and Uasin Gishu County and Marakwet West Sub-County to the south. According to the 2019 Kenya Population and Housing Census, Marakwet East Sub-County comprises four wards—Kapyego, Embobut/Embolot, Endo, and Sambirir with a total land area of 784.3 km². Kapyego covers 308.6 km², Embobut/Embolot 151.8 km², Endo 178.6 km², and Sambirir 145.3 km². The total population is approximately 97,041, distributed as follows: Kapyego (21,268), Embobut/Embolot (19,794), Endo (28,905), and Sambirir (27,709) .
Marakwet East Sub-County is characterized by three distinct agro-ecological zones, namely the highlands, escarpments, and the valley floor. The highlands account for approximately 49% of the total area and include Kapyego, Chesoi, and Embobut/Embolot. These areas experience relatively favorable climatic conditions for dairy cow rearing, sheep production, and the cultivation of maize, peas, and beans . The escarpment zone covers about 11% of the area and supports crops such as maize, millet, and sorghum. The valley floor is predominantly semi-arid, making it suitable mainly for limited subsistence farming and livestock keeping.
The area is dominated by small-scale farming systems, with average landholdings ranging from 1 to 6 acres, while a few large-scale farmers own up to 17.3 acres . Major crops grown include maize, beans, potatoes, cowpeas, green grams, and finger millet, alongside fruits such as mangoes, avocados, bananas, and pawpaws . Livestock production includes dairy cows, indigenous cattle, dairy goats, poultry, and sheep.
Figure 1. Map of Marakwet East Sub-County.Map of Marakwet East Sub-County.
2.2. Research Design
The study employed a combination of observational and analytical approaches to examine milk production and technology use among small-scale dairy farmers. Specifically, a descriptive design was used to document existing production practices and levels of technology adoption, while a cross-sectional approach enabled data to be collected once from a defined population to reflect prevailing conditions during the study period . This design choice allowed for efficient comparison of households with differing levels of technology use without the need for longitudinal follow-up.
2.3. Target Population
The target population comprised all households engaged in small-scale dairy farming activities within Marakwet East Sub-County. According to the Elgeyo-Marakwet Livestock and Fisheries Annual Report (2022), a total of 8,364 small-scale dairy farmers were officially registered across the four administrative wards, as summarized in Table 1 . These farmers formed the sampling frame from which study respondents were selected.
Table 1. Target Population of Small-scale Dairy Farmers per Ward.Target Population of Small-scale Dairy Farmers per Ward.Target Population of Small-scale Dairy Farmers per Ward.

S. No

Ward

Target Population

1

Kapyego

2,108

2

Sambirir

1,419

3

Endo

2,028

4

Embobut

2,809

Total

8,364

Source: Elgeyo-Marakwet Livestock and Fisheries Annual Report (2022)
2.4. Sample Size Determination
Sample size determination followed a statistical approach designed to balance precision with field feasibility. Nassiuma’s formula was applied because it accounts for both population variability and acceptable sampling error . A coefficient of variation of 30% was selected to reflect heterogeneity among small-scale dairy farmers, while a standard error of 2% was adopted to ensure acceptable precision in parameter estimation.
(1)
Where: n = sample size
N= accessible population
C= Coefficient of Variance
e= standard error (error term)
Substituting the population parameters into the formula yielded the final sample size used in the study:
(2)
2.5. Sampling Procedure
A multi-stage sampling strategy was applied to ensure adequate representation of dairy farmers across the sub-county. First, Marakwet East Sub-County was intentionally selected due to its comparatively low milk productivity levels . The population was then grouped by ward using stratified sampling to account for spatial variation, after which proportionate allocation ensured that each ward contributed respondents relative to its population size (Table 2). Finally, systematic random sampling was used to select households at regular intervals from ward-level farmer lists .
Table 2. Proportionate Size Sample Distribution per Ward.Proportionate Size Sample Distribution per Ward.Proportionate Size Sample Distribution per Ward.

Ward

Target Population

Proportion (Percent)

Sample Size

Kapyego

2,108

25.2%

55

Sambirir

1,419

17.0%

38

Endo

2,028

24.2%

53

Embobut

2,809

33.6%

74

Total

8,364

100%

220

Source: Author’s Computation from Marakwet East Sub-County Livestock and Fisheries Annual Report (2022).
2.6. Data Collection Instrument, Validity and Reliability
Data were collected using a structured questionnaire designed to capture socio-economic characteristics, technology adoption, and milk production outcomes. Content validity was ensured through expert assessment by university supervisors and comparison with instruments used in similar empirical studies . To assess reliability, the questionnaire was pre-tested among 23 dairy farmers outside the study area, and internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach’s Alpha. Reliability coefficients equal to or greater than 0.70 were considered satisfactory for subsequent analysis .
2.7. Data Collection Procedure
Field data collection was undertaken after formal authorization was obtained from relevant regulatory and administrative bodies, including NACOSTI (Ref: NACOSTI/P/24/33043), the County Commissioner, and the Ministry of Education. Face-to-face interviews were conducted at the household level, with household heads serving as primary respondents. In cases where household heads were unavailable, informed adult members actively involved in dairy management were interviewed.
2.8. Data Analysis and Presentation
Data processing involved systematic cleaning, coding, and entry prior to statistical analysis. Analysis was conducted using SPSS version 28.0. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize distributions and patterns of technology adoption, while multiple linear regression analysis quantified the relationship between selected technological variables and milk production outcomes . The analytical procedures followed standard regression guidelines.
(3)
Where:
Yi = milk production (Milk yield).
X1 = Use of Artificial Insemination
X2 = Access to vaccination services
X3 = Access to deworming services
X4 = Access to curative services
X5 = Access to milking machines
X6 = Access to milk cooling machine
X7 = Adoption of high yielding fodder/pasture
X8 = Access to feed milling technology
X9 = Access to improved feeds
X10 = Adoption of improved dairy breeds
X11 = Access to communication services
X12 = Access to digital platform
X13 = Access to pregnancy diagnosis services
β1, β2, β13 are the regression coefficients to be estimated.
The error (ε) term captures unobserved influences on milk yield and is assumed to satisfy the classical regression assumptions .
To verify model robustness, post-estimation diagnostic tests were performed, with particular emphasis on multicollinearity. Variance Inflation Factor (VIF) statistics were used, where values exceeding five indicate problematic correlation among predictors .
3. Results and Discussion
3.1. Respondent Characteristics and Questionnaire Reliability
Out of the 230 small-scale dairy farmer households approached, 196 provided complete and usable questionnaires, yielding a response rate of 85.2%, which is considered methodologically robust for household-based socio-economic surveys . The internal consistency of the questionnaire was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha, which yielded a coefficient of 0.79, indicating high reliability and suitability of the instrument for further statistical analysis .
Descriptive statistics for continuous socio-economic variables are presented in Table 3. The average age of respondents was 47 years, indicating that dairy farming in the study area is largely managed by middle-aged and older household heads. This pattern is consistent with rural demographic trends where younger populations increasingly migrate to urban areas in search of alternative livelihoods . The mean household size was five members, suggesting availability of family labour for dairy-related activities, and is comparable to rural household sizes reported elsewhere in Kenya . Respondents reported an average of 16.8 years of dairy farming experience, reflecting substantial accumulated production knowledge that may influence technology adoption and management decisions .
Table 3. Socio-Economic Characteristics of the Sampled Small-Scale Dairy Farmers for Continuous Variables.Socio-Economic Characteristics of the Sampled Small-Scale Dairy Farmers for Continuous Variables.Socio-Economic Characteristics of the Sampled Small-Scale Dairy Farmers for Continuous Variables.

Variable

Mean

Std. Dev.

Min.

Max.

Age of the household heads (Years)

47

8.1

28

60

Family size (Number)

5.0

2.0

3

10

Farmer experience (Years)

16.8

8.1

3

30

Total farm income (USD)†

900

250

100

2000

Source: Author’s computation from Survey Data (2024)
†Converted from Kshs to USD at the rate of 1 Kshs = 0.0078 USD.
Table 4 summarizes nominal socio-economic characteristics. Male respondents accounted for 65.8%, while females represented 34.2%, confirming that dairy production in Marakwet East remains predominantly male-managed, consistent with livestock ownership patterns in Sub-Saharan Africa . A large majority (90.3%) of respondents were married, indicating relatively stable household structures commonly associated with small-scale agricultural production systems .
Educational attainment was generally low, with 53.1% having primary education, 42.3% secondary education, and only 4.6% tertiary education. This education profile suggests potential constraints in accessing, interpreting, and applying technical information related to improved dairy technologies . In terms of occupation, 63.3% of respondents were full-time farmers, while the remainder engaged in off-farm employment, part-time farming, or trading, highlighting livelihood diversification typical of rural households .
The mean annual household income from all sources was approximately USD 900, placing most households within low-income categories and limiting their capacity to invest in improved breeds, feeds, and mechanized technologies . Overall, the respondent profile reflects a middle-aged, modestly educated, low-income farming population, consistent with small-scale dairy systems in rural Kenya and much of Sub-Saharan Africa.
Table 4. Socio-Economic Variables of Sampled Small-Scale Dairy Farmers for Nominal Variables.Socio-Economic Variables of Sampled Small-Scale Dairy Farmers for Nominal Variables.Socio-Economic Variables of Sampled Small-Scale Dairy Farmers for Nominal Variables.

Variable

Frequency (n=196)

Percent

Gender

Male

129

65.8

Female

67

34.2

Marital status

Single

7

3.6

Married

177

90.3

Widowed shown

12

6.1

Level of education

Primary

104

53.1

Secondary

83

42.3

College

9

4.6

Farmer occupation

Full-time farmer

124

63.3

Part-time farmer

18

9.2

Fully employed

42

21.4

Trader

12

6.1

Source: Author’s computation from Survey Data (2024)
3.2. Summary of Descriptive Statistics Results for Technological Factors Affecting Dairy Cow Milk Production
Table 5 presents the descriptive statistics results for technological factors affecting milk production among small-scale farmers in Marakwet East Sub-County. Overall adoption rates across most technologies were low, indicating limited modernization of dairy production systems in the study area.
Use of artificial insemination (AI) was reported by 42.9% of respondents, while 57.1% relied on natural breeding methods. This level of adoption remains modest and mirrors patterns observed in comparable small-scale systems in Eastern Africa . Access to vaccination services was reported by only 26% of farmers, while 28% accessed deworming services. Low coverage of preventive animal health services exposes herds to disease risks that directly undermine productivity . Curative veterinary services were accessed by 21.9% of respondents, a figure comparable to reports from Uganda and Ethiopia .
Adoption of mechanization was extremely limited. Only 2% of farmers owned milking machines, and 7.1% accessed milk cooling facilities. Such low levels of post-harvest and milking infrastructure constrain milk quality, market access, and value addition opportunities . Feed-related technologies were also weakly adopted. Only 17.3% of farmers used high-yielding fodder or pasture, 5.6% accessed feed milling or chopping technologies, and 31.1% used improved feeds such as hay or silage. Most households continued to rely on natural pastures and crop residues, which are nutritionally inadequate for sustained milk production .
Adoption of improved dairy breeds was reported by 21.4% of respondents, a level comparable to findings from Ethiopia and Uganda . Access to communication services stood at 20.4%, while only 5.6% of farmers reported using digital platforms. Limited penetration of digital tools restricts information flow, extension reach, and timely decision-making . Pregnancy diagnosis technologies were accessed by only 9.7% of farmers, reflecting both high service costs and limited local availability .
Taken together, these results indicate that low adoption across breeding, health, feeding, mechanization, and digital technologies collectively constrains dairy productivity in Marakwet East. Addressing these gaps requires coordinated efforts in extension delivery, affordability of services, and targeted public and private sector support .
Table 5. Descriptive Statistics Results for Technological Factors Affecting Milk Production among Small-Scale Dairy Farmers. Descriptive Statistics Results for Technological Factors Affecting Milk Production among Small-Scale Dairy Farmers. Descriptive Statistics Results for Technological Factors Affecting Milk Production among Small-Scale Dairy Farmers.

Variable

Frequency

Percent

Use of Artificial Insemination

Yes

84

42.9

No

112

57.1

Access to vaccination services

Yes

51

26.0

No

145

74.0

Access to deworming services

Yes

55

28.0

No

141

72.0

Access to curative services

Yes

43

21.9

No

153

78.1

Having milking machines

Yes

4

2.0

No

192

98.0

Access to milk cooling facilities

Yes

14

7.1

No

182

92.9

Adopted high-yielding fodder/pasture

Yes

34

17.3

No

162

82.7

Access to feed chopping/milling technology

Yes

11

5.6

No

185

94.4

Access to improved feeds

Yes

61

31.1

No

135

68.9

Adopted improved dairy breeds

Yes

42

21.4

No

154

78.6

Access to communication services

Yes

40

20.4

No

156

79.6

Access to a digital platform

Yes

11

5.6

No

185

94.4

Access to pregnancy diagnosis technology

Yes

19

9.7

No

177

90.3

Source: Authors computation from Survey Data
3.3. Descriptive Results for Dairy Cow Milk Production
Table 6 presents the key indicators of dairy cow milk production in Marakwet East Sub-County, including average annual milk production per household, average annual milk production per cow, and average daily milk production per cow. The results indicate generally low milk productivity across all measured indicators.
Table 6. Milk Production Statistics in Marakwet East Sub County.Milk Production Statistics in Marakwet East Sub County.Milk Production Statistics in Marakwet East Sub County.

Milk production (litres)

Mean

Std. Dev

Average annual milk production per household

2,925

211

Average annual milk production per cow

975

101

Average daily milk production per cow

4.5

0.4

Source: Author’s computation from Survey Data (2024)
As shown in Table 6, the average annual milk production per household was 2,925 litres, reflecting limited overall output among small-scale dairy producers in the study area. This level of production is considerably lower than the 4,500-7,574 litres per household reported in other Kenyan dairy-producing regions such as Bomet, Nakuru, and Nyeri . The disparity suggests substantial differences in production intensity, technology use, and herd management practices. Household milk output in Marakwet East is also markedly lower than levels reported in developed dairy economies, including the United States and the European Union .
The average annual milk production per cow, as indicated in Table 6, was 975 litres, which is less than half of the Kenyan national average and far below yields reported in leading global dairy producers such as the USA, Israel, and European Union countries . This wide productivity gap reflects underlying constraints related to feed quality, genetic potential of dairy cows, and access to animal health services .
Daily milk production per cow averaged 4.5 litres (Table 6), a level that falls below the 10-12 litres per cow per day achievable under optimal Kenyan small-scale dairy conditions and the 14.3 litres per cow per day reported in Murang’a County . In comparison, daily milk yields reported for small-scale systems in Oromia Region, Ethiopia (6.3-6.7 litres), and in Tororo and Mbarara Districts of Uganda (approximately 6.5 litres), are also higher than those observed in the current study .
Taken together, the indicators presented in Table 6 demonstrate that dairy cow milk production in Marakwet East Sub-County operates well below both national and international benchmarks. These findings underscore the combined effects of limited adoption of improved feeding systems, low uptake of artificial insemination, inadequate veterinary support, and minimal mechanization, all of which constrain productivity in the study area. Addressing these structural and technological limitations is therefore essential for improving milk yields and overall efficiency of small-scale dairy systems .
3.4. Diagnostic Test Results
Multicollinearity diagnostics for the regression model were assessed using tolerance values and Variance Inflation Factors (VIFs) for each explanatory variable. As reported in Table 6, VIF values ranged from 1.070 to 1.967, while tolerance values ranged from 0.508 to 0.935.
None of the reported VIF values exceeded the commonly accepted threshold of 5, and all tolerance values were above 0.25, indicating that problematic linear dependence among predictors was absent. The highest VIF value (1.967) was associated with access to pregnancy diagnosis technology, whereas the lowest (1.070) was recorded for access to deworming services. These statistics indicate minimal correlation among the explanatory variables included in the model.
Overall, the diagnostic results confirm that the regression model satisfies the assumption of low multicollinearity, implying that the estimated coefficients are stable and that standard errors and significance tests are not distorted by intercorrelations among predictors
Table 7. Estimates of Multicollinearity Statistics. Estimates of Multicollinearity Statistics. Estimates of Multicollinearity Statistics.

Variables

Multicollinearity statistics

Tolerance

VIF

Access to Artificial Insemination

0.690

1.450

Access to vaccination services

0.789

1.267

Access to deworming services

0.935

1.070

Access to curative services

0.729

1.372

Access to milking facility

0.755

1.325

Access to milk cooling facilities

0.674

1.483

Adopted high-yielding fodder/pasture

0.705

1.419

Access to feed milling technology

0.766

1.305

Access to improved feeds

0.738

1.356

Adopted improved dairy breeds

0.695

1.438

Access to communication services

0.700

1.428

Access to a digital platform

0.626

1.598

Access to pregnancy diagnosis technology

0.508

1.967

Source: Author’s Computation from Survey Data (2024)
3.5. Econometric Model Analytical Results
The estimated effects of technological factors on dairy cow milk production are presented in Table 7. The model exhibited strong explanatory power, with an R-squared of 0.733 and an adjusted R-squared of 0.715, indicating that 71.5% of the variation in household milk production was explained by the technological variables included in the analysis. The ANOVA results further confirm that the overall model was statistically significant at the 1% level (F = 38.661, p < 0.01), demonstrating that technological factors jointly exert a substantial influence on milk production outcomes .
Five technological variables were statistically significant and positively associated with milk production at the 1% significance level: use of artificial insemination, access to deworming services, adoption of high-yielding fodder and pasture, access to improved feeds such as hay and silage, and adoption of improved dairy breeds. These results indicate that technologies directly linked to genetics, animal health, and feed quality have the strongest effects on productivity. Other variables—including vaccination services, curative services, mechanized milking, milk cooling facilities, feed milling technologies, digital platforms, and pregnancy diagnosis services—did not show statistically significant effects in this model, largely reflecting their low adoption levels within the study population .
Table 8. Estimated Results on Effects of Technological Factors on Dairy Cow Milk Production Production. Estimated Results on Effects of Technological Factors on Dairy Cow Milk Production Production. Estimated Results on Effects of Technological Factors on Dairy Cow Milk Production Production.

Regression Statistics

Model summary

Multiple R

0.857

R Square

0.733

Adjusted R Square

0.715

Observations

196

Standard Error

1.266

ANOVA

SS

df

MS

F

P-value

Regression

805.805

13

61.985

38.661

<0.001

Residual

291.803

182

1.603

Total

1097.608

195

Unstandardized Coefficients

Standardized Coefficients

t Stat

P-value

Beta

Std. Error

Beta

2.222

0.149

14.934

0.000

Use of Artificial Insemination

0.690

0.220

0.144

3.137

0.002**

Access to vaccination services

-0.046

0.232

-0.009

-0.200

0.842

Access to deworming services

0.684

0.208

0.130

3.285

0.001**

Access to curative services

0.459

0.256

0.080

1.793

0.075

Access to milking machines

-0.428

0.736

-0.026

-0.581

0.562

Access to milk cooling machine

0.757

0.428

0.082

1.770

0.078

Adoption of high yielding fodder/pasture

1.834

0.285

0.294

6.448

0.000***

Access to feed milling technology

0.272

0.449

0.026

0.607

0.545

Access to improved feeds

1.780

0.227

0.348

7.827

0.000***

Adoption of improved dairy breeds

1.672

0.264

0.290

6.324

0.000***

Access to communication services

-0.071

0.268

-0.012

-0.263

0.793

Access to digital platform

0.687

0.497

0.067

1.383

0.168

Access to pregnancy diagnosis services

0.502

0.429

0.063

1.170

0.243

Source: Author’s Computation from Survey Data
As shown in Table 7, the coefficient for artificial insemination (β = 0.690) indicates that farmers using AI achieved substantially higher milk production compared to non-users. Artificial insemination enhances genetic improvement by enabling access to superior dairy germplasm, a finding consistent with empirical evidence from multiple regions within and outside Kenya .
Access to deworming services also showed a strong positive association with milk production (β = 0.684). Regular parasite control improves nutrient utilization, animal health, and overall lactation performance, thereby translating into higher milk yields .
Adoption of high-yielding fodder and pasture had the largest positive coefficient (β = 1.834), indicating that feed quantity and quality are central drivers of milk productivity. Adequate and nutrient-dense forage supports sustained lactation and improved animal condition, as documented in several African and international studies .
Use of improved feeds such as hay and silage was similarly associated with higher milk production (β = 1.780). Feed conservation stabilizes nutrient supply across seasons, reduces reliance on low-quality roughage, and enhances milk output and farm profitability .
Adoption of improved dairy breeds was positively associated with milk production (β = 1.672), indicating that genetic upgrading through crossbreeding offers substantial productivity gains under small-scale management conditions. Crossbred cows often balance higher milk yields with resilience to local climatic and disease pressures .
Overall, the econometric results demonstrate that targeted adoption of breeding, feeding, and animal health technologies significantly enhances milk productivity among small-scale dairy farmers. Technologies with the strongest effects are those that directly improve genetic potential and nutritional status, underscoring the importance of prioritizing these interventions.
4. Conclusion and Recommendations
The findings of this study confirm that technological adoption is a critical determinant of dairy cow milk production among small-scale farmers in Marakwet East Sub-County. Regression results demonstrate that technologies related to breeding, animal health, and feeding systems exert the strongest positive influence on milk productivity. Specifically, use of artificial insemination, access to regular deworming services, adoption of high-yielding fodder and pasture, use of improved feeds such as hay and silage, and adoption of improved dairy breeds were all positively associated with increased milk production.
Based on these findings, the study recommends that county-level interventions prioritize expanding access to affordable and reliable artificial insemination services, in collaboration with national agencies and private sector providers. Improved AI coverage will accelerate genetic improvement, enhance disease resistance, and reduce risks associated with uncontrolled natural breeding. There is also a need to strengthen delivery of routine deworming and veterinary services at the farm level, as effective parasite control improves feed efficiency, animal health, and milk yield.
Furthermore, supporting farmers to access improved dairy breeds and well-managed crossbreeds suited to local production conditions is essential for sustainable productivity gains. Genetic improvement efforts should be complemented by training on appropriate feeding and herd management practices to maximize returns from improved breeds.
The study also recommends promoting adoption of improved pasture and fodder varieties with higher biomass yield and nutritional value. Investment in fodder production will enhance feed availability, reduce seasonal fluctuations in milk production, and lower pressure on natural grazing resources. Extension services should emphasize fodder establishment, management, and conservation techniques.
Finally, county governments and development partners should promote feed conservation practices such as hay and silage making to address seasonal feed shortages. Conserved feeds help stabilize milk supply throughout the year, reduce labor demands associated with daily forage collection, improve feed hygiene, and enhance milk quality. Facilitating farmer training and access to feed conservation equipment will further strengthen dairy productivity and household incomes.
Abbreviations

MMT

Million metric tonnes

AI

Artificial Insemination

VIF

Variance Inflation Factor

ANOVA

Analysis of Variance

OLS

Ordinary Least Squares

SSA

Sub-Saharan Africa

ECM

Energy Corrected Milk

Acknowledgments
The authors thank Mr. Joseph Kibor, Barnabass Kimutai, Joesph Kitum and Robert Yego for assistance in field data collection among the small scale dairy farmers of Marakwet East Sub County, Kenya. The authors also thanks the respondents who willingly responded to the questionnaires. This study was granted by University of Eldoret.
Author Contributions
Richard Kaino Chelanga: Conceptualization, Data curation, Formal Analysis, Investigation, Methodology, Resource, Software, Writing - original draft, Writing - review & editing
Elijah Kiplangat Ng’eno: Supervision, Validation, Visualization, Writing - review & editing
Joseph Amesa Omega: Supervision, Validation, Visualization, Writing - review & editing
Data Availability Statement
The data is available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
Conflicts of Interest
The authors declare no conflicts of interest
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    Chelanga, R. K., Ng’eno, E. K., Omega, J. A. (2026). Technological Determinants of Dairy Cow Milk Production Among Small-Scale Farmers in Marakwet East Sub-County, Elgeyo-Marakwet County, Kenya. International Journal of Agricultural Economics, 11(1), 1-15. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijae.20261101.11

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    Chelanga, R. K.; Ng’eno, E. K.; Omega, J. A. Technological Determinants of Dairy Cow Milk Production Among Small-Scale Farmers in Marakwet East Sub-County, Elgeyo-Marakwet County, Kenya. Int. J. Agric. Econ. 2026, 11(1), 1-15. doi: 10.11648/j.ijae.20261101.11

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    Chelanga RK, Ng’eno EK, Omega JA. Technological Determinants of Dairy Cow Milk Production Among Small-Scale Farmers in Marakwet East Sub-County, Elgeyo-Marakwet County, Kenya. Int J Agric Econ. 2026;11(1):1-15. doi: 10.11648/j.ijae.20261101.11

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  • @article{10.11648/j.ijae.20261101.11,
      author = {Richard Kaino Chelanga and Elijah Kiplangat Ng’eno and Joseph Amesa Omega},
      title = {Technological Determinants of Dairy Cow Milk Production Among Small-Scale Farmers in Marakwet East Sub-County, Elgeyo-Marakwet County, Kenya},
      journal = {International Journal of Agricultural Economics},
      volume = {11},
      number = {1},
      pages = {1-15},
      doi = {10.11648/j.ijae.20261101.11},
      url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijae.20261101.11},
      eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.ijae.20261101.11},
      abstract = {Small-scale dairy farming plays a critical role in food security, rural livelihoods, and nutritional improvement in many developing economies. Across Sub-Saharan Africa, the dairy sector is predominantly smallholder-based; however, productivity remains persistently low due to limited adoption of modern dairy production technologies and inadequate access to support services. In Marakwet East Sub-County, Elgeyo-Marakwet County, small-scale dairy farmers continue to experience low milk yields per cow and per household, threatening household incomes, food security, and the sustainability of the local dairy value chain. Identifying context-specific technological constraints is therefore essential for designing effective policy and extension interventions. This study examined the technological factors influencing dairy cow milk production among 196 small-scale dairy farmers in Marakwet East Sub-County. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, and primary data were collected using structured questionnaires administered to farm households. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics to assess the level of adoption of dairy production technologies and multiple linear regression to estimate the effects of selected technological variables on milk production. The results revealed generally low adoption of key dairy technologies. Only 42.9% of farmers used artificial insemination, 28% accessed deworming services, 26% accessed vaccination services, 17.3% adopted high-yielding fodder and pasture, and 21.4% kept improved dairy breeds. Average annual milk production per household was 2,925 liters, while average milk production per cow was 975 liters per year, equivalent to 4.5 liters per cow per day, values that are substantially below the national benchmark of approximately 10 liters per cow per day. Multiple linear regression analysis indicated that use of artificial insemination, access to deworming services, adoption of high-yielding fodder and pasture, access to improved feeds such as hay and silage, and adoption of improved dairy breeds had positive and statistically significant effects on milk production. Other technologies, including mechanized milking, milk cooling facilities, and digital platforms, did not show significant effects, largely due to their very low adoption levels among farmers. The findings demonstrate that technological adoption is a critical determinant of milk productivity among small-scale dairy farmers. Addressing existing technological gaps through affordable breeding services, improved animal health management, enhanced feed systems, and strengthened extension support is essential for increasing milk production, improving household incomes, and contributing to Kenya’s broader food security and agricultural transformation goals.},
     year = {2026}
    }
    

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  • TY  - JOUR
    T1  - Technological Determinants of Dairy Cow Milk Production Among Small-Scale Farmers in Marakwet East Sub-County, Elgeyo-Marakwet County, Kenya
    AU  - Richard Kaino Chelanga
    AU  - Elijah Kiplangat Ng’eno
    AU  - Joseph Amesa Omega
    Y1  - 2026/01/20
    PY  - 2026
    N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijae.20261101.11
    DO  - 10.11648/j.ijae.20261101.11
    T2  - International Journal of Agricultural Economics
    JF  - International Journal of Agricultural Economics
    JO  - International Journal of Agricultural Economics
    SP  - 1
    EP  - 15
    PB  - Science Publishing Group
    SN  - 2575-3843
    UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijae.20261101.11
    AB  - Small-scale dairy farming plays a critical role in food security, rural livelihoods, and nutritional improvement in many developing economies. Across Sub-Saharan Africa, the dairy sector is predominantly smallholder-based; however, productivity remains persistently low due to limited adoption of modern dairy production technologies and inadequate access to support services. In Marakwet East Sub-County, Elgeyo-Marakwet County, small-scale dairy farmers continue to experience low milk yields per cow and per household, threatening household incomes, food security, and the sustainability of the local dairy value chain. Identifying context-specific technological constraints is therefore essential for designing effective policy and extension interventions. This study examined the technological factors influencing dairy cow milk production among 196 small-scale dairy farmers in Marakwet East Sub-County. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, and primary data were collected using structured questionnaires administered to farm households. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics to assess the level of adoption of dairy production technologies and multiple linear regression to estimate the effects of selected technological variables on milk production. The results revealed generally low adoption of key dairy technologies. Only 42.9% of farmers used artificial insemination, 28% accessed deworming services, 26% accessed vaccination services, 17.3% adopted high-yielding fodder and pasture, and 21.4% kept improved dairy breeds. Average annual milk production per household was 2,925 liters, while average milk production per cow was 975 liters per year, equivalent to 4.5 liters per cow per day, values that are substantially below the national benchmark of approximately 10 liters per cow per day. Multiple linear regression analysis indicated that use of artificial insemination, access to deworming services, adoption of high-yielding fodder and pasture, access to improved feeds such as hay and silage, and adoption of improved dairy breeds had positive and statistically significant effects on milk production. Other technologies, including mechanized milking, milk cooling facilities, and digital platforms, did not show significant effects, largely due to their very low adoption levels among farmers. The findings demonstrate that technological adoption is a critical determinant of milk productivity among small-scale dairy farmers. Addressing existing technological gaps through affordable breeding services, improved animal health management, enhanced feed systems, and strengthened extension support is essential for increasing milk production, improving household incomes, and contributing to Kenya’s broader food security and agricultural transformation goals.
    VL  - 11
    IS  - 1
    ER  - 

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Author Information
  • Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, University of Eldoret, Eldoret City, Kenya

    Research Fields: Agricultural Economics, Agribusiness Management, Farm Management, Agricultural Marketing, Agricultural Extension, Agricultural Value Chain Development, Climate Smart Agriculture, Agricultural Project Management.

  • Department of Applied Economics, University of Eldoret, Eldoret City, Kenya

    Biography: Elijah Kiplangat Ng’eno is a Lecturer at the University of Eldoret, Kenya, Department of Applied Economics. He completed his PhD in Agricultural Economics and Resource Management from Moi University in 2018, and his Master of Agricultural Economics and Resource Management from the same institution in 2010. Recognized for his exceptional contributions, Dr. Ng’eno has been the head of the Department of Applied Economics and a Lecturer for over ten (10) years. He has also been honoured with the Information Security Management System (ISMS) Based on ISO/IEC 27001: 2013. In addition, he holds a Diploma in Project Management. He has participated in interdisciplinary regional and international research collaboration projects in recent years. He currently serves on numerous university and community committees and boards and is affiliated with some professional societies. He has also been invited as a Technical Committee Member and co-session chair of an international conference.

    Research Fields: Agricultural Economics, Sustainable Development, Resource Economics and climate change and Agricultural Project Management.

  • Department of Animal Science and Management, University of Eldoret, Eldoret City, Kenya

    Research Fields: Veterinary Pathology, Veterinary Microbiology, Veterinary Parasitology, Veterinary Immunology, Disease Diagnosis, Animal Production, Anti-Microbial Resistance, One Health Policy.

  • Abstract
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  • Document Sections

    1. 1. Introduction
    2. 2. Methodology
    3. 3. Results and Discussion
    4. 4. Conclusion and Recommendations
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  • Abbreviations
  • Acknowledgments
  • Author Contributions
  • Data Availability Statement
  • Conflicts of Interest
  • References
  • Cite This Article
  • Author Information