Determinants and Perceived Impacts of Biogas Technology among Smallholder Dairy Farmers in Njoro Sub-County, Nakuru, Kenya

Abstract

The adoption of biogas technology has increasingly been recognized as a sustainable solution for addressing household energy needs, environmental degradation and poor waste management in rural communities. This study assessed the benefits and challenges of biogas adoption and examined the socio-economic drivers of technology uptake among smallholder dairy farmers in Njoro Sub-County, Nakuru County, Kenya. A descriptive research design was employed with a multi-stage sampling method selecting 110 smallholder dairy farmers. Primary data was collected through semi-structured questionnaires and Focus Group Discussions. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression using SPSS Version 24. Findings revealed that biogas technology was highly valued for reducing household energy costs (Mean = 4.98), lowering indoor air pollution (Mean = 4.98), reducing dependence on firewood (Mean = 4.97) and improving soil fertility through slurry application (Mean = 4.97). However, the high installation cost emerged as the greatest barrier to adoption (Mean = 4.89), while lack of technical knowledge (Mean = 3.13) also limited effective utilization. Binary logistic regression analysis indicated that age, (B = -1.121, p = 0.047) and monthly income (B = -1.162, p = 0.021) were significantly negatively associated with adoption. In contrast, education level had a strong positive predictor as farmers with medium education level were 33.1 times more likely to adopt (p < 0.05). Gender, marital status, household size and land ownership were not statistically significant. The study concludes that while biogas technology offers substantial environmental, economic and health benefits, financial and technical barriers persist. To increase uptake among smallholder dairy farmers, financial support mechanisms and technical extension services need to be strengthened.