Impact of shamba shape up and iShamba on livestock and climate resilience

This report assesses the impact of Shamba Shape Up (SSU) and iShamba advisory services on smallholder farmers in Kenya, focusing on livestock productivity, climate adaptation, and financial literacy. Data from surveys conducted in 2023 and 2024 highlight the effectiveness of these advisories in improving farming practices, economic outcomes, and resilience. Key findings reveal that 65% of farmers reported positive changes in their farming practices, with 35% indicating “very much improved” methods, particularly in soil conservation and livestock feeding. Additionally, 55% experienced increased production, while 25% reported a “very much increased” household income, showcasing economic gains attributed to SSU and iShamba advisories. Improvements in financial literacy were also notable, with 70% of farmers reporting enhanced understanding of loans and insurance, and 35% using financial services for the first time. However, barriers to adoption persist. 40% of farmers cited financial constraints as a significant challenge, and only 15% of survey respondents were female, indicating gender disparities in access and participation. Climate literacy results showed that 55% of farmers understood weather advisories well, and 60% made adaptive changes in response, demonstrating the potential for these advisories to enhance climate resilience. Insights from the OCEAN personality model reveals diverse adoption behaviors among farmers. Farmers with high openness (98.78%) were more willing to adopt new practices, while those high in conscientiousness (89.02%) desired detailed information before implementation. Agreeableness (96.95%) indicated voluntary adoption, while farmers with higher neuroticism (79.88%) were cautious and often reconsidered decisions. These insights suggest that tailoring content to suit different personality types can significantly enhance adoption rates. For example, step-by-step guides can support conscientious individuals, while peer testimonials and success stories can provide reassurance to those with neurotic tendencies. Recommendations include the need for more localized and actionable advisories, gender-focused outreach through female extension agents, and financial partnerships to provide accessible credit packages. By addressing these challenges with an inclusive and personalized approach, SSU can further its mission of improving smallholder resilience, productivity, and livelihoods, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable agricultural sector in Kenya.

Vyas, S.; Burra, D.D.; Calvin, K.; Kirwa, L.; Rottmann, S.; Ramirez Villegas, J.