Relationship between selected factors and use of information and communication technology tools among cassava smallholder farmers in Rangwe Sub-County, Kenya

Abstract

The use of mobile phones, televisions, computers, and radios in agricultural extension enhances the efficient sharing of agricultural information and improves the link among farmers, researchers, and agricultural extension officers in Kenya. Nevertheless, the use of these Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools to access production inputs, management practices, post-harvest practices, and marketing was underutilized among smallholder farmers (SHFs). The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between selected factors (socio-economic status, access to credit, and training) and the use of ICT tools among cassava smallholder farmers in Rangwe Sub-County, Kenya. The study adopted a correlation research design and targeted 3808 SHFs growing cassava in Rangwe Sub-County, Kenya. The accessible population was 3025 members of cassava farming groups in the Sub-County. Simple random sampling techniques were used to select a total sample size of 106 SHFs from four wards of the Sub-County. Pretested semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Validity was determined by the experts in the departments. Reliability of 0.756 α Cronbach alpha was attained through a pilot test with 30 SHFs in Homa-Bay Town Sub-County. Descriptive data analysis was done using frequency, percentage, and cross-tabulation while hypotheses were tested at a 0.05 level of significance using linear regression with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) Version 25. The majority of the SHFs were female, middle age (36-50 years), attained primary education and earned the lowest average annual income (X ≤ KES160, 000). Selected socio-economic factors had very high correlation with ICT adoption (R=0.912, P=0.004, R2=0.832, Adj. R2= 0.825) while Access to training and access to credit had a moderate correlation with the adoption (R = +.778, P = .004, R2 =0.602) and (R = +.654, P = .003, R2 =0.427, adj. R2=0.422) respectively. The three null hypotheses were rejected. In conclusion, a unit change in the selected factors results in a significant change in ICT adoption. The study recommends the empowerment of women, adults, and those with low education. Credit subsidies and training should also be enhanced.