Financial Literacy and Agribusiness Performance Among Male Youth in Kiambu County, Kenya

Financial literacy is increasingly recognized as a critical determinant of enterprise success, particularly in the agribusiness sector, where effective financial management underpins sustainability and growth. This study examined the influence of financial literacy on the performance of agribusiness enterprises among male youth in Kiambu County, Kenya. Anchored on social capital and resource-based view theories, the research adopted a cross-sectional design and utilized both quantitative and qualitative approaches. A sample of 300 agribusiness enterprises was selected from a target population of 1,200, with data collected through structured questionnaires and key informant interviews. Analysis employed descriptive statistics, correlations, and multiple regression to test hypotheses. Findings revealed a significant positive relationship between financial literacy and agribusiness performance (R² = 0.316, p = 0.00), underscoring that youth with strong financial management skills achieved better business outcomes, including improved efficiency, profitability, and resilience. These results highlight the centrality of financial literacy within project management, as it enhances decision-making, resource allocation, and strategic planning in agribusiness enterprises. The study recommends targeted capacity-building initiatives that integrate financial literacy into youth agribusiness programs, positioning financial management as a core driver of sustainable agricultural enterprise performance. Keywords: Financial Literacy, Agribusiness, Performance, Male Youth