The modes of agricultural practices embraced by the people of Abogeta Sub County before the period 1937-1980

Abstract

Agricultural activities are very crucial part of a people’s economic engagements. This study is about a history on the transition from subsistence to cash crop farming in Abogeta Sub-County in Meru County, Kenya, from 1937-1980. The main economic activity of the people in Abogeta Sub County is farming and keeping livestock. Before 1937 farming practices were mainly for subsistence. Crops grown included millet, sorghum, peas, arrowroots, yams, beans and cowpeas. However many changes have occurred in the agricultural sector by 1937. The purpose of this study was to examine the transition from subsistence to cash crop farming and its effects on food production in Abogeta Sub County of Meru from 1937 to 1980. The study aimed at investigating the modes of agricultural practices embraced by the people of Abogeta Sub County from 19371980. The study employed descriptive research design to describe the events as they occurred systematically. The target population was 179608 as per 2019 census. A total of 30 respondents were randomly sampled and interviewed from Abogeta Sub County. The instruments of data collection were interview schedules, focused group discussions and observation schedule. The study revealed that traditionally people from Abogeta Sub County engaged in subsistence farming. The study also noted that the transition had both positive and negative impacts on people of Abogeta. Policy makers in the government may use the study to find solutions to food insecurity in Abogeta Sub County of Meru-County.