Economic Impact of Climate Change on Maize Production in Kenya

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to investigate the economic impact of climate change on maize production in Kenya. Methodology: The study used climate, soil and household data for 1357 households. The climate data was from ARTES (African Rainfall and Evaluation System) and Satellite climate data while the Soil data was from Kenya Soil Survey conducted by Kenya Agricultural Research Institute. The household data was obtained from Tegemeo Research Institute. Results: The regressions results suggest that climate has a significant impact on maize production. The study found that temperature has a bigger impact on maize production compared to precipitation as evidenced by the elasticity of temperature and precipitation. Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: The study recommends that policy efforts should be directed at addressing the impact of climate change on maize production. Through research and development, the government should encourage the development of maize varieties that can adapt to the future expected hot conditions.