Journal of
Agricultural Extension and Rural Development

  • Abbreviation: J. Agric. Ext. Rural Dev
  • Language: English
  • ISSN: 2141-2170
  • DOI: 10.5897/JAERD
  • Start Year: 2009
  • Published Articles: 489

Full Length Research Paper

Economic costs of aflatoxin contamination in Meru and Tharaka Nithi counties of Kenya

Githii Stephen Kagwathi
  • Githii Stephen Kagwathi
  • School of Business, Africa Nazarene University, Kenya.
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Kimani Gichuhi
  • Kimani Gichuhi
  • School of Business, Africa Nazarene University, Kenya.
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Muchiri Renson
  • Muchiri Renson
  • School of Business, KCA University, Kenya.
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Ngari Boniface
  • Ngari Boniface
  • School of Computer Science, Multi Media University, Kenya.
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Ethangatta Linda
  • Ethangatta Linda
  • Research Directorate, Africa Nazarene University, Kenya.
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Muchungi Kendi
  • Muchungi Kendi
  • Brain and Mind Institute, Agha Khan University, Kenya.
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  •  Received: 27 December 2022
  •  Accepted: 16 February 2023
  •  Published: 31 May 2023

Abstract

Aflatoxin resulting from the consumption of contaminated cereals has always been a concern in Kenya. The purpose of this study was to determine the economic costs of aflatoxin contamination in Meru and Tharaka Nithi counties in Kenya. A multi-stage cluster sampling using the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) design was used to select clusters and households. Once clusters were identified, households were selected from each cluster using a stratified random sampling method. Questionnaires were developed and pretested to determine their validity and reliability. Majority of the surveyed households associated aflatoxin contamination with an increased cost of farming, and lack of market rejection of their products by the market and brokers. Finally, an increased need for veterinary intervention was also associated with contamination. It was therefore concluded that access to the market remains a challenge to most farmers and this can only be corrected if aflatoxin is managed.

Key words: Aflatoxin, socio economic.