Perceived Effects of Use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) on Rural Farmers’ Knowledge in Orlu Agricultural Zone, Imo State.

Authors

Tijjani Abu Rimi Mr, Federal University, Dutsinma, Katsina StateFollow
Anaeto Francis Chudi Dr, Federal University of Technology, OwerriFollow
Emerhirhi Emily Emily Mrs, Federal College of Education Technical Omoku, Rivers State ,NigeriaFollow

Date of this Version

Summer 1-28-2017

Document Type

Article

Abstract

The aim of this study was to ascertain the effects of use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) on farmers’ knowledge in Orlu Agricultural Zone, Imo State. Data were collected with structured questionnaires distributed to 130 respondents randomly selected from the 10 extension blocks in Orlu Agricultural Zone. Data collected were analyzed descriptively. The result obtained showed that, radio is the most readily available ICT device (99.2%), followed by mobile phone (97.7%). It was also observed that ICT use have effects on the farmers’ knowledge on improve use of equipment with a mean response of 2.93, increase knowledge of use and management of water (M= 2.86), increase knowledge of use of improved seeds (M=3.25), increase of use of fertilizer and pesticides with mean responses of 3.18 and 2.97 respectively among others. This study thus recommended that Government should provide financial support to farmers through the provision of interest free loans to enable them acquire and use the technologies.