Exploring Mobile Phone Usage for Agricultural Inputs Access among Smallholder Farmers in Mpwapwa District, Tanzania: Demographic Factors, Access Methods, and Challenges

Juma Masoud Mchiro; Mercy Mlay Komba; Tandi Edda Lwoga

doi:10.51867/ajernet.5.4.148

Authors

Juma Masoud Mchiro Head of ICT Unit, The National Water Fund, Dodoma, Tanzania https://orcid.org/0009-0002-8941-2812
Mercy Mlay Komba Mzumbe University, Morogoro, Tanzania https://orcid.org/0009-0005-6957-9334
Tandi Edda Lwoga College of Business Education, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3254-8770

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51867/ajernet.5.4.148

Keywords:

Input Information, ICT Interventions, Mobile Phone Usage, Technology Adoption, Smallholder Farmers

Abstract

This study investigates how smallholder farmers in Mpwapwa District, Tanzania, utilize mobile phones to access crucial agricultural input information. The study was grounded on theory of reasoned action (TRA) and gratification theory (UGT). Utilizing a case study design with a quantitative approach, data were collected from 384 participants through structured surveys. The data collected were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS).The findings reveal significant demographic influences on mobile phone usage, particularly highlighting the active participation of the 19–39 age groups in seeking agricultural information. Various methods employed by farmers to access farm input information were assessed, demonstrating a reliance on mobile technology despite existing challenges. These challenges include knowledge gaps, financial constraints, and limited technical skills, which impede effective usage. The study emphasizes the importance of targeted interventions to enhance mobile technology adoption among farmers. Recommendations are provided to optimize mobile phone use, aiming to improve farmers' access to essential agricultural inputs and ultimately enhance productivity.

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