Abstract:
This paper examines the perception of seasonal climate forecast (SCF) information used in agricultural decisionmaking by smallholder farmers in semi-arid Voi sub-County, Kenya. Questionnaires were administered to a total
of 204 respondents randomly selected from farming households in two administrative locations. Questionnaires
were used to collect data on farmers’ perception of the quality of SCF. Seasonal climate forecast data for
October-November-December (OND) 2015 and daily rainfall data for the same season was also collected. Both
descriptive and inferential statistics were used in data analysis and in particular one sample Pearson’s Chi-square
was used to establish how smallholder farmers perceived SCF information. Study findings established that
smallholder farmers’ perception of seasonal climate forecast information was somewhat good with a significant
difference in their perception (P=.000). The study concludes that although OND 2015 SCF was accurate the
perception of smallholder farmers was not good enough to positively influence their agricultural decisions. This
study recommends enhancement of awareness and increased dissemination of within-season climate forecast so
as to improve positive perception of seasonal climate forecast in order to assist farmers make informed decisions
so as to increase farm productivity.
