Assessment of agricultural information provision to small scale farmers: a case study of mbozi district in Mbeya.
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Date
2013
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Publisher
University of Dar es Salaam
Abstract
This study assessed information provision to small scale farmers in Mbozi District, Mbeya, Tanzania. Data were collected using both secondary sources obtained from documentary resources and primary data obtained from the use of face to face interviews, focus group discussions, self-administered questionnaires administered with farmers and extension and field officers. Qualitative data were subjected to content analysis whereas quantitative data were analysed with the help of SPSS. The findings of this study reveal that, although the majority of the farmers received information from extension and field officers, most of them did not use such information. Some of them did not value information as the key factor in enhancing production primarily because the information they received was not useful. Moreover, the agricultural inputs were expensive and sub-standard. Also right information was not available for production purposes. The study also shows that other channels in the provision of information were not effectively used as only extension officers provide information. Moreover, the small scale farmers were not provided with current information on modern farming techniques, hence increasing the prospect for food shortages and food insecurity. The study concludes that information is needed at every stage of the production process to enhance production through scientific methods. The government needs to support information providers by allocating enough budgets to enhance the dissemination of quality and relevant information. Moreover, there should be a link between information providers and policy-makers to ensure information on effective agricultural production strategies reaches the intended target in a timely fashion.
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Keywords
Agriculture, Information sciences, Small scale farmers, Farmers, Mbozi district, Mbeya district, Tanzania
Citation
Kyando, K. (2013). Assessment of agricultural information provision to small scale farmers: a case study of mbozi district in Mbeya. Master dissertation, University of Dar es Salaam. Available at (http://41.86.178.3/internetserver3.1.2/search.aspx?formtype=advanced)