Information dissemination machanisms in promoting kilimo kwanza policy: a case of rice growing in Mbarali district, Mbeya
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Date
2015
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Publisher
University of Dar es Salaam
Abstract
This study focused on the information dissemination mechanisms in promoting Kilimo Kwanza (agriculture first) policy to farmers. It investigated the information dissemination mechanisms employed in keeping farmers informed about the definitive “Kilimo Kwanza” policy among farmers. Using a mixed method approach, that is integrating both the quantitative and qualitative elements, the study made use of both primary and secondary data. Its sample was made up of 85 farmer respondents and four Agricultural Extension Officers from Rujewa and Ubaruku wards, who were purposively selected. The study established that the farmers largely accessed information through the radio, extension officers and their relatives. They classified these sources as the most reliable information dissemination mechanisms. The least used mechanisms were identified as extension meetings and word of mouth through traders. Moreover, the farmers explained that they mostly accessed and used information on fertilizers, marketing and types of seed. On the other hand, they identified the least used information as data on types of soil and sources of water. Furthermore, the study established the challenges facing the farmers in the study area face in accessing agricultural information as the shortage of agricultural extension officers, lack of training, and weak farmers’ association. On the basis of these findings, the study proposes the provision of education to the farmers through appropriate training, increasing the number of agricultural extension officers who should not only be readily available but also timely accessible, increased publicity, budgeting and accountability. Such measures can enhance the dissemination of the Kilimo Kwanza policy among farmers.
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Keywords
Agriculture, Information services, Kilimo Kwanza Policy, Rice farmers, Mbarali district, Mbeya region
Citation
Yusuph, M. (2015) Information dissemination machanisms in promoting kilimo kwanza policy: a case of rice growing in Mbarali district, Mbeya, Masters’ dissertation, University of Dar es Salaam. Available at (http://41.86.178.3/internetserver3.1.2/detail.aspx)