Rural road infrastructure is a crucial component in promoting economic growth, especially in rural economies characterized by small-scale farming. These roads are vital for connecting isolated communities to crucial social services, including education, healthcare, and markets, which support enhanced livelihood outcomes. In Kenya, rural regions are inadequately developed in terms of road infrastructure, which may hinder access to social services and perpetuate cycles of poverty among agricultural households. This study investigates the effect of access to social services due to rural road Infrastructure on the livelihood outcomes of small-scale farmers in Upper Eastern Region, Kenya. This study examines the relationship between enhanced rural road networks and access to education, healthcare, and markets, and how this affects the livelihood outcomes of small-scale farmers. The research employed a descriptive survey approach based on positivist philosophy. Data was obtained from a stratified random sample of 395 households spanning Meru and Embu Counties. Reflexive comparison and correlational analysis were utilized to assess the impacts of road infrastructure pre- and post-construction. Regression analyses was performed to ascertain the relationship between social service access and livelihood outcomes, informed by the Sustainable Livelihood Framework and the Welfare Pentagon. Research indicated enhanced physical accessibility to educational institutions, particularly privately-owned primary schools, and an increase in private healthcare services subsequent to rural road construction. Market access markedly enhanced, decreasing journey duration and augmenting interaction with buyers. Nonetheless, despite these advancements, regression analysis revealed that enhanced access to education (β = -0.187), health services (β = -0.094), and markets (β = 0.148) exerted no statistically significant impact on livelihood outcomes (p > 0.05). Challenges including the affordability and quality of private services, low quality, and postponed socio-economic gains from education were recognized as constraining factors. While rural road infrastructure has facilitated access to social services, it is inadequate to substantially improve the livelihood results of small-scale farmers. Affordability, service quality, and socio-economic factors influence the advantages of access. The report advocates for cohesive development strategies that merge infrastructure investments with specific policies to enhance service affordability and pertinence. Prolonged investigation is essential to evaluate deferred effects and identify indirect advantages. Holistic approaches are crucial for converting rural road development into concrete and sustainable enhancements in rural livelihoods.
