Factors Influencing Farm Crime in Kenya: Opinions and Experiences of Farmers
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Date
2013-12
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Ohio State University. Libraries
Abstract
Although agriculture is the backbone of Kenya’s economy, the industry is faced with rapid
social, cultural, economic, and technological changes that have significantly increased crime
levels in rural areas. In particular, communal, social, and individual controls are diminishing,
and the result is an increase of criminal activities against agricultural operations. The aim of
the study was to assess factors associated with levels of agricultural theft and vandalism in
Kenya, based on the perceptions of farmers themselves. The research was carried out in the
Soy division of Uasin Gishu County. A multistage sampling approach, which incorporates
purposive, random, and systematic techniques, was used to select respondents within the case
study locations. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered to a representative sample
of 200 farmers. Key informant interviews and informal discussions were conducted with
local administration officers, namely, village elders, sub chiefs and chiefs, to supplement
information derived from the survey. The study used routine activity theory to explain how
perceived changes in communities where the farmers lived have created opportunities for the
commission of crime. Based on the findings, the study recommends programs which create
employment opportunities for both youth and disadvantaged persons in rural Kenya.
Description
Keywords
Farm Crime, Routine Activity Theory, Agriculture Ecological Factors, Socioeconomic Factors
Citation
International Journal of Rural Criminology, v2, n1 (December, 2013), p. 75-100