Abstract:
Small-scale agriculture provides livelihoods for over 70% of the Kenyan population.
However, farmers face a number of challenges, including poor access to agricultural
information. Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is yet to be fully utilized
in the provision of real time access to information by farmers. The aim of this study was
to develop a web-based information system to enhance food security in Samia Sub
County. The objectives of the study were to: determine ways through which farmers
access agricultural information in Samia Sub-County; determine opportunities that ICT-
based agricultural information systems present to farmers in Samia Sub-County; identify
factors that influence access and utilization of agricultural information by small-scale
farmers in Samia Sub-County; and, model and build a prototype web-based agricultural
information system that supports access to agricultural information by farmers in Samia
Sub-County. The study was anchored on theMedia Richness Theory advanced by Daft
and Langel (1986). The study employed a survey approach. The target population
comprised of small scale farmers and technical staff in Samia. The sample comprised of
agricultural officers and small scale farmers sampled purposively and location were
stratified, participants chosen purposively from each stratum. This yielded a sample of 7
agricultural officers and 399 small scale farmers. Both the questionnaire and interview
schedule were used to collect data. Data was analyzed using the cross case data analysis
technique. It was established that farmers access agricultural information through radio,
traditional sources and mobile phones. The farmers also indicated that access to
agricultural information leads to increased farmer income, increased level of agricultural
productivity, reduced costs of food and led to sustainable agricultural practices.
Education level of farmers was the key factor influencing their access to and utilization
of agricultural information. A prototype web-based agricultural system was designed and
developed,on recommendation.Since majority of rural folks have access to mobile
phones, agricultural officers should carry out sensitization seminars and workshops on
how farmers can utilize their phones in accessing agricultural information. Besides, due
emphasis has to be given towards strengthening rural education at different levels for
both youth and adults.
