Determinants of Digital Technologies Use for Agricultural Information Access Among Smallholder Farmers: A Case of Handeni and Muheza Districts, Tanzania
Determinants of Digital Technologies Use for Agricultural Information Access Among Smallholder Farmers: A Case of Handeni and Muheza Districts, Tanzania

Summary/Abstract: This study explores the determinants influencing the use of digital technologies to access agricultural information among smallholder farmers in Handeni and Muheza Districts, Tanzania. Despite the agricultural sector's significant contribution to Tanzania’s economy, smallholder farmers continue to face information gaps that hinder productivity. The study employs the Diffusion of Innovations Theory and uses a cross-sectional design, collecting quantitative and qualitative data from 200 respondents through surveys and interviews. Binary logistic regression was used to identify key socio-demographic and infrastructural factors influencing digital technology use. Findings reveal that while farmers generally perceive mobile phones, radio, and social media positively for accessing agricultural information, tools like mobile apps and television are less favored due to complexity and cost. Statistically significant predictors of digital technology use include age (negative association), education level, device ownership, internet access, and electricity access (positive associations). Gender disparities also influence access, with male farmers more likely to engage digitally. The study concludes that targeted interventions especially in digital literacy, infrastructure development, and localized content are essential to bridge the digital divide in rural farming communities.

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