Effect of Vertical Diversification on Sustainable Livelihoods among Fish Farmers in Kakamega County, Kenya

Abstract

This study examined the effect of vertical diversification on sustainable livelihoods among fish farmers. The study employs descriptive and survey research designs to collect data from 350 randomly selected fish farmers across the 12 sub-counties in Kakamega County, Kenya. Findings indicate that vertical diversification, through value addition, processing, and packaging, significantly impacts sustainable livelihoods. The results demonstrate that vertical diversification contributes to income gains, physical asset accumulation and social capital growth. The study concludes that fostering vertical diversification strategies, improving access to financial services and promoting cooperative farming models can significantly enhance the livelihoods of fish farmers. These findings underscore the need for policy interventions to support rural economic diversification. The study further recommends improvement of farmers’ access to financial services as well as promotion of cooperative farming for better outcomes.