Determinants of market intelligence usage among smallholder potato Agri-enterprises in Kenya

Introduction Irish potato is an important staple food and cash crop in Kenya, contributing significantly to household income, food security and employment. However, smallholder potato farmers continue to face challenges arising from limited access to timely and reliable market information, weak market linkages and high transaction costs. Market intelligence can reduce information asymmetries, improve decision-making and enhance the performance of potato Agri-enterprises. Methods This study examined the determinants of market intelligence usage among 276 randomly selected smallholder potato farmers in Molo Subcounty, Nakuru County, Kenya. A cross-sectional survey design was employed and data were collected using structured questionnaires. A Multivariate Probit (MVP) model was applied to analyse factors influencing the use of three categories of market intelligence: input intelligence, market intelligence, and price intelligence. Results The findings revealed significant interdependence among the three market intelligence choices, justifying the use of the MVP model. Land allocated to potato production positively influenced the use of all three forms of market intelligence. Access to extension services and credit significantly increased the likelihood of using input intelligence, while access to market information positively influenced market intelligence usage. Farmer group membership significantly enhanced the use of price intelligence. Additionally, age, household size and gender significantly influenced specific market intelligence choices. Discussion The findings highlight the importance of institutional support systems in promoting market intelligence utilization among smallholder potato farmers. Strengthening extension services, improving farmers' access to affordable credit, supporting farmer organizations, and investing in market information systems can enhance agricultural commercialization and improve the performance of potato Agri-enterprises in Kenya.