Uptake and utilization of treated human excreta as organic fertilizer (Kenya)

The main reason for poor crop production in several Sub-Saharan Countries has been recorded to be truncated soil fertility. In addressing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) agenda 6, human excreta treatment and production of safe nutrient-rich organic fertilizer is an effective way of addressing the challenges. The study explored factors influencing the uptake and utilization of treated human excreta as organic fertilizer among small scale farmers. The following objectives guided the study: assessing knowledge, attitude, and perception, ascertaining the influence of household sanitation practices, determining the socio-cultural factors and economic factors influencing uptake and utilization of the organic fertilizer. The study applied purposive and stratified sampling techniques to select 96 respondents using Fisher’s formula from a population 64,186. Data was collected using structured questionnaires and interview guides. The study established that the influence of perception, negative attitude and knowledge on uptake and utilization of the organic fertilizer from human excreta was statistically significant. Further, study indicated that the type of sanitation technology, socio-cultural and economic factors limited respondent’s utilization of treated human waste. The study recommends that acceptance of treated human excreta and usage in agricultural production is an essential step towards creation of circular nutrient economy.