Perceptions of Small-Scale Farmers and Extension Officers Towards the Influence of Socio-Demographic Factors in the Utilisation of Digital Technologies for Dissemination of Agricultural Knowledge

Abstract

In recent years, digital technologies have emerged as powerful tools to enhance communication, knowledge sharing and decision making in the agricultural sector. Various agricultural digitisation tools are used, including messaging on mobile phones, social media, use of specialised apps by extension officers and small-scale farmers in the dissemination of agricultural knowledge. However, limited research exists on specific perceptions, challenges and opportunities related to the adoption and utilisation of these tools amongst small-scale farmers and extension officers. Previous studies show that different extension approaches result in different adoption levels by farmers. The research was based on the perceptions of small-scale farmers and extension officers towards the use of digital tools in the dissemination of agricultural knowledge in Bomet County, Kenya. The study was guided by these objectives; to assess impact of socio-demographic factors on farmers’ and extension officers’ views on digital tools in agriculture, to compare perceptions of sustainability of digital tools among farmers and extension officers, to explore perception of farmers and extension officers on the constraints on digital tools’ utilization and to compare perspectives of farmers and extension officers on upscaling digital tools in agriculture in Bomet County, Kenya. Ex-posto-facto and comparative research designs were used in the study. A total of 246 respondents were sampled using multi-stage cluster sampling, with simple random sampling and an interview schedule and questionnaire were used to collect data. The data collected was organised and analysed using frequencies, percentages and means. The inferential statistics were analysed using Pearson’s correlation r, then presented in tables, bar charts, graphs and figures. The study concluded that sociodemographic factors greatly influenced digital adoption, highlighting the need for inclusive, well-designed interventions to support marginalised farmers. Policymakers should implement digital strategies that enhance access, provide relevant training, and deliver locally tailored content to meet the diverse needs of marginalised communities.