Stakeholder Knowledge Transfer and Performance of Milk Processors in Nyeri and Laikipia Counties, Kenya

Abstract

In stakeholder management, knowledge transfer is crucial as it facilitates mutual understanding, ensures that stakeholders are well-informed, and aligns expectations, thereby enhancing collaboration and decision-making processes. This study sought to assess the effect of knowledge transfer among stakeholders on performance of milk processors in Nyeri and Laikipia Counties in Kenya. The target population was the 22 milk processing firms in Nyeri and Laikipia Counties. The respondents to the study were the management staff of milk processing firms, farmers, transporters, marketers, and representatives of the regulators. Data was collected using self-administered structured questionnaires and data was analysed descriptively with the aid of a statistical package for social science software and presented using frequencies and percentages. Results showed an average implementation of knowledge transfer among stakeholders. Correlation analysis was also conducted. The results indicated a significant positive correlation between knowledge transfer and performance, r(564) = .611, p < .001. The study concluded that knowledge transfer among stakeholders significantly influenced performance of milk processors in Nyeri and Laikipia Counties, Kenya. The study underscores the importance of promoting stakeholder engagement practices such as knowledge transfer. Policies that incentivize knowledge transfer programs can be instrumental in enhancing overall industry performance. Milk processors therefore ought to enhance knowledge transfer, especially on quality feeds, artificial insemination, and other inputs as this has a direct impact on the quality of milk and therefore the performance of the processors.