Household Socioeconomic and Institutional Factors Influencing Adoption of Rainwater Harvesting Technologies for Beekeeping in Semi-Arid Kenya

Abstract

This study examined household socio-economic and institutional factors associated with the adoption of rainwater harvesting (RWH) technologies for beekeeping in Itiko Sublocation, Kitui County, Kenya. RWH is important for improving water availability in semi-arid areas, where unreliable rainfall and prolonged dry periods constrain access to water for beekeeping. However, adoption varies among households, potentially limiting its contribution to sustainable beekeeping livelihoods. The study adopted a convergent mixed-methods design. From a population of 456 households, a sample of 82 was planned, but 70 households participated and constituted the final analysed sample. Quantitative data were collected using structured questionnaires, while qualitative data were obtained through key informant interviews and focus group discussions. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, cross-tabulations, and association tests, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. Education was significantly associated with adoption, with full adoption increasing from 0 per cent among respondents without formal education to 71.4 per cent among those with post-secondary education. Household financial capacity, technology costs, availability of construction materials, labour requirements, and maintenance needs were also associated with adoption and continued use. Extension services, training, and community information networks improved awareness and technical knowledge. Harvested rainwater improved water availability for beekeeping during dry periods. The study recommends affordable RWH technologies, strengthened extension and training services, and improved institutional support for beekeepers. The findings provide evidence to guide interventions aimed at improving water security, climate resilience, and sustainable beekeeping livelihoods in semi-arid Kenya.