Drought Tolerant Crop Farming and Agricultural Production among Women in Kianjai Ward, Meru County – Kenya

Abstract: This study investigated the role of using drought tolerant crops and its implications on agricultural production among women in Kianjai Ward, Meru County – Kenya. Despite substantial investments in Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) interventions by government and development partners, agricultural production in Kianjai Ward, Meru County, has remained below its potential. The study was guided the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework. Mixed-methods research approach and convergent parallel research design were used in this study. The target population comprised 607 women farmers, from which a sample of 240 respondents was selected using stratified and simple random sampling techniques, while key informants were selected purposively. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation and multiple regression analysis, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. The findings established that drought-tolerant crops had statistically significant positive effects on agricultural production among women farmers in Kianjai Ward. The study concluded that most respondents acknowledged the role of drought-tolerant varieties in enhancing resilience to erratic rainfall and prolonged dry spells. This study recommends that, agricultural stakeholders should promote drought-tolerant crop varieties through demonstration farms, farmer field schools and continuous extension support to improve resilience to climate variability. Key words: Drought Tolerant Crops, Farming, Agricultural Production, Women