Assessment of Literacy Levels of Small-Scale Poultry Farmers for improved information behaviour and production: case of Kabaa location, Kenya

Abstract

The world today is driven by information. Appropriate information is required in all sectors of the economy. But it is important to note that there is too much information available that if one is not careful, they can be misled and make wrong decisions. Therefore, information literacy or having the skills that will enable one to seek and access the right information is necessary.  Knowing the information one needs and how to look for it is very crucial for everyday life. The way one seeks information is known as information behaviour. Having the correct information seeking behaviour will help the user to find the required information they seek. Small Scale farmers require variety of information to assist them in their endeavors. Therefore it is important for these farmers to have appropriate literacy levels and exhibit appropriate information seeking behaviour. This study sought to assess the literacy levels of small-scale farmers in Kabaa location, Mwala Sub-County, Kenya. The study objective was to establish the literacy levels of Kabaa small scale poultry farmers. The target population was 86 farmers and 2 livestock officers. Data was collected from all 86 farmers and 2 livestock officers. A pilot study was carried out at the neighboring sub-county which is Yatta sub-county since they are both semi- arid and their agricultural activities are similar. A questionnaire and an interview schedule were used as data collection instruments. The findings were analysed using statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 27(2020) and presented using tables, charts and graphs. The findings indicated that most Kabaa location farmers are be able to read and write and use most of the information materials available in hard copies.