Farmers' Access and Use of Mobile Phones for Improving the Coverage of Agricultural Extension Service: A Case of Kilosa District, Tanzania
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Date
2016-08
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
IGI Global
Abstract
This study sought to investigate on the access and use of mobile phones for improving the coverage
of agricultural extension services among farmers in the pre-harvest stages of maize value chain in
Kilosa district. The study examined the use of mobile phones as a means for improving the coverage
of agricultural extension services. The study adapted a cross sectional study design and a multistage
sampling technique. Data were mainly collected using structured questionnaires. The results revealed
that majority of respondents used mobile phones and had a positive attitude on the contribution of
mobile phone in their farming business. The study results also indicated that mobile phones offered an
affordable solution to farmers’ information needs and information requirements. The study concluded
that the use of mobile phone to communicate agricultural information depends on information needs
of farmers. The study recommended that farmers need to be encouraged and supported to access and
use mobile phones in their farming business
Description
Keywords
Access, Agricultural Extension Services, Kilosa District, Mobile Phones, Use