Assessing the Effectiveness of Phone-Based Digital Agricultural Extension and Advisory in Ethiopia: Evidence from Expert Service Providers
No Thumbnail Available
Date
2024-06
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The effectiveness of phone-based digital agricultural extension and advisory services (PBDAEAS) in Ethiopia is a critical factor in enhancing agricultural productivity and livelihoods, given the sector's substantial contribution to the country's GDP and population's livelihood. Despite significant investments in traditional agricultural extension services, challenges persist, highlighting a gap in the understanding and utilization of digital solutions. This study investigates the PBDAEAS effectiveness, focusing on expert service providers to fill this research gap. The study was conducted in Ethiopia, a country where agriculture is the mainstay of the economy and where digital transformation in agriculture is still in its nascent stages. The study followed a quantitative research approach and a descriptive research design. A structured survey questionnaire was used to measure experts’ perspectives of PBDAEAS effectiveness as explained by the variables cost, time, customization, and utilization. A census survey was used targeting 330 experts working in the digital agricultural extension and advisory services and based in Addis Ababa city, Sidama regional state, and Oromia regional state. The collected data were analyzed quantitatively using Descriptive Statistics and Relative Importance Index technique. The findings indicate that PBDAEAS is effective in several key areas. It is a low-cost means to disseminate standardized information to smallholder farmers, and it can timely deliver seasonal agriculture information to farmers. In addition, PBDAEAS facilitates better two-way communication with farmers and is easy for farmers to access agricultural information and advice. The study's implications are significant for policymakers and stakeholders in the agricultural sector. It recommends increased investment in PBDAEAS by the government and other key stakeholders to boost agricultural productivity and improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers.
Description
Keywords
Phone-based digital agricultural extension and advisory service, Cost, Time, Customization, Utilization, Overall Effectiveness