Assessment of Production and Marketing of Climbing Beans by Smallholder Farmers in Nyanza Region, Kenya

Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is a major cheap source of protein in Kenya. The crop is a good source of energy, folic acid, dietary fibre and complex carbohydrates. The Nyanza region of Kenya where this survey was carried out experiences low bean yield due to numerous factors, including non-use of high yielding varieties. This has had negative impact on food security and income in rural households. The need to increase productivity led to the introduction of climbing bean varieties in western Kenya through the East African Bean Research Network. The objective of the survey was to determine the status of adoption, production and marketing of climbing beans in the counties of Nyamira, Kisii and Kuria in the Nyanza region. Both primary and secondary data were collected using two questionnaires designed to capture information on factors affecting bean production and grain market supply. The questionnaires also focused on identification of major marketing channels, costs and margins, production and constraints. Results obtained showed that about 70% of the households had difficulties in accessing clean seed of improved climbing bean varieties. Eighty five percent of farmers planted farm saved seeds obtained from the previous season or from neighbours and relatives. Ten percent obtained seed from local traders while only two percent purchased certified seed from the research institution. Availability of staking materials is a major problem and hence most farmers prefer relaying climbing beans into maize that is almost ready for harvest so that the maize stalks serve as stakes. There exist confusion in the naming and description of climbing bean varieties, hence there is need for researchers to identify and document existing varieties.