Developing an agricultural information system to enhance Food security in Samia Sub-County, Kenya

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.