PROVISION OF INFORMATION TO SMALL SCALE
VEGETABLE FARMERS IN WARENG DISTRICT OF UASIN
GISHU COUNTY, KENYA
BY
ZIPPORAH CHEPKOECH CHELEMEK ROP
A THESIS PRESENTED TO THE SCHOOL OF INFORMATION
SCIENCES IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT FOR THE AWARD OF
THE DEGREE OF MASTER OF PHILOSOPHY IN
INFORMATION SCIENCES (Library and Information Studies)
NOVEMBER, 2012
ii
DECLARATION
DECLARATION BY THE CANDIDATE
This thesis is my original work and has not been presented for a degree in any other
University. No part of this thesis may be produced without prior permission of the
author and / or Moi University.
Zipporah Chepkoech Chelemek Rop
IS/PGL/02/06
Signed…………………………………………………. …. Date…………………..
DECLARATION BY SUPERVISORS
This thesis has been submitted for examination with our approval as University
supervisors:
Prof. Cephas Odini
School of Information Sciences
Moi University
Eldoret, Kenya
Signed…………………………………………………. …. Date…………………..
Prof. Joseph K. Kiplang‟at School of Information Sciences
Moi University
Eldoret, Kenya
Signed…………………………………………………. …. Date…………………..
iii
DEDICATION
This thesis is dedicated to my family. My loving husband Sammy, our children
Kiprono, Kirwa, Chepkemboi and Cheptoo who all stood by me during my studies.
You endured my absence and attention as a wife and a mother on many occasions.
Guys thank you for your patience. I love you all!
To my parents who planted the seed of education and instilled in me its values. To my
brother and my sisters. Thank you very much. May God bless you always.
iv
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
In the pursuit of this work, several people came to my aid. I would like to thank all the
individuals and organizations that contributed information and time towards
completion of this work.
My gratitude goes to my supervisors Prof. C. Odini and Prof. J. Kiplanga‟at for their
guidance and support during the research and for their constructive criticisms and
invaluable advice in shaping up the thesis. I also benefited from conversations from
colleagues of Moi University library staff and also members of School of Information
Sciences.
I would also like to thank vegetable farmers in Wareng district and agricultural
officers in the district who provided the needed information.
My gratitude also goes to my workmates at School of Environmental Studies
Documentation Centre and the library fraternity for encouraging me with words of
advice when things were tough.
Last but not least, I am grateful for the support and encouragement of my husband
Sammy and our children, without whom the completion of this work would have been
impossible. Special thanks to my brothers and my sisters for always encouraging me.
To all, may God bless you and give you the courage and strength to meet the
challenges of life.
Thank you very much.
v
ABSTRACT
Agriculture remains the most important economic activity in Kenya. Efficient and
effective provision of information is essential to the success of agriculture. It
improves decision making, enhances and provides competitive edge to all sectors of
economies. Provision of information to vegetable farmers in Wareng district is not up
to the expected standards. The information materials generated are not in line with
information needs of vegetable farmers. The aim of this study was to investigate the
provision of information to small scale vegetable farmers of Wareng District, with a
view of establishing challenges and proposing a model for effective and efficient
improved information flow to the vegetable farmers in the district. The specific
objectives of the study were to identify information needs of small scale vegetable
farmers in Wareng District; assess the effectiveness of extension services in
dissemination of information to vegetable farmers; determine communication
channels through which agricultural information is disseminated to small-scale
vegetable farmer ; accessibility and usefulness of the information channels, sources,
services and systems that provide information to vegetable farmers; identify the
factors that hinder agricultural information and suggest ways of improving
communication of agricultural information to small scale vegetable farmers in
Wareng District. This study was informed by the Wilson‟s theory of Information behaviuor (1996) and Niedzwiedzka‟s (2003) new model of Information Behaviour. Data was collected with the aid of semi-structured interview schedule.The study
found out that vegetable farmers lack timely information specific to their needs of
farmers. The existing information systems and services were inadequate in satisfying
the information needs. Access to information is hampered by inadequate resources to
facilitate access. Data presentation is mainly qualitative with some aspects of
quantitative approach using tables, percentages and figures. The study recommends
improvement of the existing information services, systems and channels in
disseminating information to vegetable farmers. The proposed model if adopted will
enhance efficiency in disseminating agricultural information to small scale vegetable
farmers in Kenya.
vi
TABLE OF CONTENTS
DECLARATION ........................................................................................................... ii
DEDICATION ..............................................................................................................iii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ............................................................................................ iv
ABSTRACT ................................................................................................................... v
TABLE OF CONTENTS .............................................................................................. vi
LIST OF TABLES ....................................................................................................... xii
LIST OF DIAGRAMS ................................................................................................xiii
CHAPTER ONE .......................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Introduction to the study .......................................................................................... 1
1.2 Background to the Study .......................................................................................... 2
1.2.1 Agricultural activities in Kenya ...................................................................3
1.2.2 Farming Activities in Uasin Gishu County ..................................................5
1.2.3 Vegetable Farming in Wareng District ........................................................6
1.3 Role of information in vegetable farming ................................................................ 7
1.4 Information Systems and Services in Wareng District .......................................... 10
1.4.1Moi University Library Services ..................................................................10
1.4.2The Kenya National Library Services (KNLS) ............................................10
1.4.3District Information and Documentation Centre (DIDC) ............................11
1.4.4Agricultural Information Centres .................................................................12
1.4.5Agricultural Information Networks ..............................................................13
1.5 Statement of the Problem ....................................................................................... 13
1.6 Aim of the study..................................................................................................... 15
1.7 Objectives of the study........................................................................................... 15
1.8 Research Questions ............................................................................................... 16
1.9 Assumptions of the study ...................................................................................... 16
1.10 Significance of the study ...................................................................................... 17
1.11 Scope and limitations of the study ....................................................................... 17
1.12 Definition of Operational Terms .......................................................................... 18
vii
CHAPTER TWO ....................................................................................................... 20
LITERATURE REVIEW ......................................................................................... 20
2.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................ 20
2.2 Theoretical Framework .......................................................................................... 20
2.2.1 Concept of Information ..............................................................................22
2.2.2 Information Needs .......................................................................................22
2.1.5 Relevance of Defleurs‟ theory to the study .................................................26
2.1.6 Wilson‟s Information Behaviour Model .....................................................27
2.1.7 Relevance of Wilson‟s model to the study ..................................................28
2.1.8 Barbara Niedzwiedzka Model of Information Behaviour ...........................29
2.3 Review of Literature related to the study as per the objectives ........................................ 33
2.3 .1 Farming in Africa .......................................................................................35
2.3.2 History of Agriculture in Wareng District .................................................38
2.3.3 Role of Extension Workers in the Dissemination of Information ............39
2.3.4 Agricultural Information Services .............................................................41
2.3.5 The types of communication channels used to disseminate information ..45
2.3.5.1 The Radio .......................................................................................46
2.3.5.2 Mobile phones ................................................................................48
2.3.5.3 Safaricom Mobile text messaging ..................................................48
2.3.5.4 Voice ..............................................................................................49
2.3.5.5 Wireless Network...........................................................................49
2.3.5.6 Pod casting .....................................................................................49
2.3.5.7 Web 2.0 ..........................................................................................50
2.4 Sources used by farmers in accessing information ............................................................ 51
2.5Factors that Hinder Dissemination of information to small – scale vegetable
farmers ......................................................................................................................... 55
2.6 Agricultural Information Policy ............................................................................. 57
2.7 Summary ................................................................................................................ 58
viii
CHAPTER THREE ................................................................................................... 59
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY ............................................................................. 59
3.10 Introduction .......................................................................................................... 59
3.2 Research Design..................................................................................................... 59
3.3 Study Area ............................................................................................................. 61
3.4 Study Population ................................................................................................... 61
3.5 Sampling Design ................................................................................................... 61
3.5.1 Sample size ............................................................................................................. 635
3.6 Data collection methods ........................................................................................ 63
3.6.1 Questionnaires............................................................................................64
3.6.2 Interviews ..................................................................................................64
3.6.3 Documents review (Secondary Sources) ...................................................65
3.7 Validity .................................................................................................................. 66
3.8 Reliability ............................................................................................................... 66
3.8.1 Data Collection Procedures ........................................................................67
3.8.2 Data Analysis .............................................................................................68
3.8.3 Writing .......................................................................................................68
3.8.4 Coding into themes ....................................................................................69
3.8.5 Ethical issues .............................................................................................69
CHAPTER FOUR ...................................................................................................... 71
DATA PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION .................... 71
4.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................ 71
4.2. Response rate ........................................................................................................ 71
4.2.1 Characteristics of the vegetable farmers .....................................................74
4.2.2 Characteristics of the Key Informants / Agricultural officers .....................75
4.2.3 Profile of the organizations that the Key Informants work for ...................75
4.3. Role of the Ministry of Agriculture ...............................................................76
4.3.1 Services provided by the Agricultural Officers to the farming community ..
............................................................................................................77
ix
4.4 Information needs of small-scale vegetable farmers in Wareng District
...................................................................................................................................... 78
4.4.1 Forms of farming in Wareng District ..........................................................78
4.4.2Forms of irrigation ........................................................................................79
4.4.3 Information needs on the use of fertilizers and pest control .......................81
4.4.4 Market outlets for vegetables ......................................................................82
4.4.5 Sources of funding vegetable farming .........................................................83
4.4.6 Information needs on the quality of seeds ...................................................84
4.4.7 Information need on ways of communication .............................................84
4.5 Sources of information available to and used by the small-scale vegetable farmers
...................................................................................................................................... 85
4.5.1 Information resources and services used by farmers and agricultural
officers .......................................................................................................85
4.5.2 The frequency in which vegetable farmers contact Agricultural Officers for
information .................................................................................................86
4.6. Types of agricultural information provided to farmers .........................................87
4.7 Communication channels through which agricultural information is
disseminated ................................................................................................................. 88
4.7.1 Communication channels through which Agricultural Officers disseminate
information to small-scale vegetable farmers ............................................88
4.7.2 Channels through which farmers communicate with the Agricultural
Officers ......................................................................................................89
4.7.3 Communication channels through which farmers received agricultural
information .................................................................................................90
4.7.4 Farmers‟ preferred channels for receiving agricultural information .........90
4.7.5 Educational levels of the Agricultural Officers‟ clients ..............................91
4.7.6 Formats of presentation of agricultural information ...................................91
4.7.7 Language used to disseminate agricultural information ..............................92
x
4.8 Factors that hinder accessibility and dissemination of agricultural information by
small-scale vegetable farmers in Wareng District ....................................................... 92
4.8.1 Problems faced by farmers in searching and accessing agricultural
information .................................................................................................92
4.8.2 Effects of farmers‟ inaccessibility to agricultural information ...................93
4.8.3. Challenges faced by agricultural officers in disseminating information to
farmers .......................................................................................................94
4.9 Ways of improving the communication and dissemination of agricultural
information to small-scale vegetable farmers in Wareng District ............................... 96
4.9.1 Possible solutions to accessing information ................................................96
4.9.2 Suggestions on how to improve dissemination of information to vegetable
farmers .......................................................................................................98
4.10 Conclusion ......................................................................................................... 99
CHAPTER FIVE…………………………………………………………..……….99
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 100
5.0 Introduction .......................................................................................................... 100
5.1.1 Information needs of small-scale vegetable farmers in Wareng district .100
5.1.2 Sources of Information available to small-scale vegetable farmers in
Wareng district .........................................................................................101
5.1.3 Effectiveness of extension services in the dissemination of information to
vegetable farmers .....................................................................................102
5.1.4 Communication channels through which agricultural information is
dissemination ...........................................................................................102
5.1.5 Accessibility and usefulness of information channels, sources, services and
systems that provide information to vegetable farmers ...........................103
5.1.6 Factors that hinder accessibility to agricultural information by small scale
vegetable farmers in Wareng district .......................................................103
5.1.7 Ways and means of improving communication of agricultural information
to small scale vegetable farmers ..............................................................104
5.2 Conclusion ........................................................................................................... 106
5.3 Recommendations ................................................................................................ 109
xi
5.3.2 Proximity of Agricultural Officers...........................................................109
5.3.3 Establishment of information centres .....................................................110
5.3.4 Linkages with agricultural Research Institutions .....................................110
5.3.5 Packaging and Repackaging of Agricultural information .......................111
5.3.6 Facilitation of Agricultural Extension Officers .........................................111
5.3.7 Use of ICT in Disseminating Information ...............................................111
5.4Proposed Model for Provision of Information to Vegetable Farmers in Wareng
District........................................................................................................................ 113
5.4.1 Identification of Information needs .........................................................113
5.4.2 Proactive partner ......................................................................................114
5.4.3 Proactive Agricultural Information Services ...........................................114
5.4.4 Selection and use of Information .............................................................114
5.5 Suggestions for Further Research ....................................................................... 115
REFERENCES ......................................................................................................... 116
APPENDICES ........................................................................................................... 120
APPENDIX 1: INTERVIEW SCHEDULE FOR VEGETABLE FARMERS.......... 120
APPENDIX II: INTERVIEW SCHEDULE FOR AGRICULTURAL OFFICERS . 122
xii
LIST OF TABLES Table 1: Location of the Study………………………………………………………73
Table 2: Role of Ministry of Agriculture (MOA)…....................................................76
Table 3: Types of Agricultural Information……………………………….…………77
Table 4: Forms of Farming…………………………………………………………...78
Table 5: Need for forms of Irrigation…………………………………...……………79
Table 6: Use of Fertilizer and Pest Control…………………………………………..81
Table 7: Market Outlets………………………………………………………………82
Table 8: Sources of Funding…………………………………………………………83
Table 9: Information Resources………………………………………………..…….85
Table 10: Channels of Communication……………….…………………….……….88
Table 11: Preferred Channels of Communication…………….……………………..89
Table 12: Challenges in Information Dissemination faced by farmers………….…..92
Table 13: Effect of no accessing Agricultural Information……………..…………..93
Table 14: Challenges in Information Dissemination faced by Agricultural Officers 95
Table 15: Job Designation for Agricultural Officers……………………..…..……..96
xiii
LIST OF DIAGRAMS
Diagram 1: Location of Study…................................................................................73
Diagram 2: Duties and responsibilities of agricultural officers………………….….75
Diagram 3: Forms of farming……………………………….…………...………….75
Diagram 4: Need for forms of Irrigation…………………………………….……...80
Diagram 5: Market outlets……………………………………………………..……82
Diagram 6: Sources of Funding……………………………………………………..83 .
Diagram 7: Information Resources………………………………………………….86
Diagram 8: Information Dissemination…………………………………………..…87
Diagram 9: Channels of Communication……………………………………..…….88
Diagram 10: Forms of Presentation……………………………………….…….…..91
Diagram 11: Job Designation of Agricultural Officers…………………..…………97
Diagram 12: Suggestion to improve Dissemination…………………….…….…….98
xiv
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Wilson's information behaviour model…………………………………..27
Figure 2: Niedzewieddzka‟s modeln of 2003………………………..…………….30
1
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Introduction to the study
Kenya‟s agricultural system has undergone tremendous evolution over the last eight
decades. In the colonial era (1920-1963), commercial agriculture was limited to white
settler farmers. With political independence in 1963, the policy focus was expanded to
include participation by indigenous Africans in commercial agriculture. There was
also increased state control on production and marketing of commodities. Specific
measures and strategies for agricultural development have clearly been defined in
various policy documents such as Sessional Paper No. 4 of 1981 (National Food
policy, Sessional Paper No. 1 of 1986 (Economic Management for Renewed Growth),
Sessional Paper No. 1 of 1992 (Development and Employment in Kenya and the
National Development Plans (various issues).
In spite of high and stable agricultural growth up to 1986, various problems relating
to rigid policies, high control of the sector and changes in the external economic
environment began to impact on agriculture sector performance and thus, a felt need
for major structural change. The core functions of the Ministry of Agriculture include:
to collect, maintain and manage information on the agricultural sector and to provide
agricultural extension services. This is basically the subject area in which this study is
based on, that is, provision of information to small-scale vegetable farmers in Wareng
District of Uasin Gishu County.
2
Most farmers would agree that relevant information is essential to the success of
farming and food production in general. It is important to note that today information
services in general are a vital resource for national development. Provision of right
and timely information improves crop yields, enhances economic growth and
encourages adoption of new agricultural technologies.
Information services in any field require management and support in its
dissemination. The challenge being faced is to transfer information from the creator to
the consumer. The transfer of information from the producer to the consumer needs to
be accelerated with a view to reaching the user at the right time and in the appropriate
form.
1.2 Background to the Study
Information plays a pivotal role in economic and cultural development of a country.
Information is the core of all development and supports all sectors of an economy. In
this regard, the organizations and individuals both in the public and private sectors
should ensure access to and use of information by different user groups. Both sectors
should also ensure that the information disseminated to specific user communities is
timely and relevant to their needs.
Odini (1997) opines that the kind of information system and services available in
Kenya are not effective and efficient. He attributes this to various factors such as
prevalence of information services which have been designed without proper analysis
of the information needs of users, high levels of illiteracy and language barrier.
3
Odini suggests that this situation calls for an intervention by information professional
who should encourage the use of information by carrying out in depth studies to
determine information needs of the various users. Ozowa (1995) adds that African
governments have failed to integrate agricultural information delivery or
dissemination with other development programmes to address the numerous related
problems that face small scale farmers. Information is an essential ingredient in
agricultural development programmes.
However, smallholder farmers in Kenya seldom feel the impact of agricultural
innovations since they have no access to such vital information due to ineffective
information dissemination systems. The information provided is exclusively focused
on policy makers, researchers, and those who manage policy decisions with scant
attention paid to the information needs of the targeted beneficiaries of the policy
decisions. According to Ozowa (1995), the non-provision of agricultural information
is a key factor that has greatly limited agricultural development in most Sub-Saharan
African countries.
1.2.1 Agricultural activities in Kenya
Agriculture is the mainstay of the Kenya economy accounting for 60% of the national
employment and earning 40% of government revenue. Agricultural information is
therefore a critical ingredient for both sectoral development and national economy.
Since independence, Kenya has relied heavily on the agricultural sector as a base for
economic development, employment creation, food security and foreign exchange
earnings. About 80% of Kenya‟s population lives in the rural areas and most of them
depend on agriculture for their livelihoods. Kenya is Africa's leading tea producer,
and was fourth in the world in 1999, behind India, China, and Sri Lanka. Black tea is
4
Kenya's leading agricultural foreign exchange earner. Production in 1999 reached
220,000 tons. Tea exports were valued at $404.1 million in 2001, or nearly 18% of
total exports. The tea industry is divided between small scale farms and large estates.
The small-scale sector, with more than 260,000 farmers, is controlled by the Kenya
Tea Development Authority parastatal. The estates, consisting of 60–75 private
companies, operate on their own.
Coffee is Kenya's third leading foreign exchange earner, after tourism and tea. In
2001, coffee earnings totaled $91.8 million. Production in 2001/02 amounted to
52,140 tons. Similar to the tea sector, coffee is produced mainly for small farms and a
few large estates. All coffee is marketed through the parastatal Coffee Board of
Kenya. The suspension of the economic provisions of the International Coffee
Agreement in July 1989 disrupted markets temporarily, driving coffee prices to
historical lows.
Kenyan horticulture has become prominent in recent years, and is now the third
leading agricultural export, following tea and coffee. Fresh produce accounted for
about 30% of horticultural exports, and included green beans, onions, cabbages, snow
peas, avocados, mangoes, and passion fruit. Flowers exported include roses,
carnations, statice, astromeria, and lilies.
Kenya is the world's largest producer and exporter of pyrethrum, a flower that
contains a substance used in pesticides. The pyrethrum extract, known as pyrethrin, is
derived from the flower's petals. A drop in production during the mid-1990s was due
to increasing production costs, disease damage, and slow payment by the parastatal
Pyrethrum Board of Kenya. The growing demand for "organic" and "natural"
pesticides has increased international demand for pyrethrin, despite the existence of
5
synthetic chemical substitutes. Kenya also produces sisal, tobacco, and bixa annatto (a
natural food coloring agent) for export.
Other important crops in 1999 were sugarcane, 5,200,000 tons; corn, 2,110,000 tons;
wheat, 135,000 tons; rice, 40,000 tons; and cotton, 5,000 tons. Smallholder farmers
grow most of the corn and also produce significant quantities of potatoes, beans, peas,
sorghum, sweet potatoes, cassava, bananas, and oilseeds.
Kenya is blessed with resources that contribute to agricultural success. First and
foremost, the climatic conditions are favourable; the soils are well drained and rich in
minerals. Kenya also has adequate infrastructure for instance, roads and transport
system. There are credit facilities and ready markets for farmers to enhance
agricultural activities.
1.2.2 Farming Activities in Uasin Gishu County
Uasin Gishu County is basically an agricultural district, producing more than a third
of the total national wheat production in the country. Second to wheat production is
maize which is planted both as a food and cash crop. Agriculture thus forms the main
driving force for industrialization in the county. Most of the industries in Eldoret town
are agro-based industries, which utilize the raw materials from the agricultural sector.
The main crops that are produced in the small farm sector include maize, beans,
wheat, vegetables, pyrethrum and horticulture.
The entire Uasin Gishu is classified as arable land with substantial proportion being
classified as high potential agricultural land. The major farm activities are in the
areas of crop production and livestock rearing. The crops grown include maize,
6
wheat, barley, pyrethrum, coffee, beans, horticulture, and vegetables. The district has
a highland equatorial climate whose rainfall is considered sufficient by most farmers.
The highlands receive heavier rainfall than the lowlands with two rain patterns in a
year. The long rains usually start in April and end in August while the short
intermittent rains are experienced from November through December. Average
temperatures are classified as moderate and are favourable for farming.
There are both small scale and large scale farming activities in Uasin Gishu County.
Large scale farmers usually grow maize, wheat, coffee and pyrethrum while the small
scale farmers grow vegetables, potatoes and maize for subsistence. Small scale
farmers in Uasin Gishu County make up 90% of the county‟s farming population.
They are engaged in cultivation as well as dairy production on a small scale. Thus
their survival depends on good weather patterns availability of affordable farm inputs
as well as relevant agricultural information.
According to the Uasin Gishu District Development Plan 2002-2008, the optimum
utilization and production by small scale farmers is hindered by poorly of organized
marketing channels, high costs of farm inputs, unaffordable agricultural credit, poor
infrastructure, inadequate extension services (poor provision of information services),
and adverse weather conditions. Uasin Gishu County has been sub-divided into three
districts namely: Wareng, Eldoret East and Eldoret West.
1.2.3 Vegetable Farming in Wareng District
The new Wareng District is curved out of the larger Uasin Gishu County. It has two
Divisions namely Kesses and Kapseret with its proposed headquarters at Kesses
Centre.
7
Farmers in Wareng District are preoccupied with small scale vegetable farming in
addition to maize and wheat production. The moderate climate and ample rain which
abound in the entire district have given rise to vegetable farming. The district has
natural water dams which ensure that water is available round the year. Vegetable
farmers of this district have taken advantage of the presence of the dams and where
possible carry out their farming activities around the dam. The dams therefore provide
water to the farmers round the year.
The vegetables that are commonly grown in Wareng District include: Kales or
sukuma wiki, cabbages, carrots, garden peas, spinach, tomatoes, potatoes, spring
onions and beans among others. Other continental vegetables include French beans,
snow peas, snap peas, butter nuts, baby corns, baby carrots and corgettes among
others. Traditional vegetables include black night shade (sucha), spider leaves
(isagek), pumpkins, cow peas and amaranthus and other assortments.
1.3 Role of information in vegetable farming
Vegetable farmers require information to enable them carry out farming in a modern
and cost effective way. Critical information required include those pest control as
well as know when pests pose an economic threat.
These farmers also require information on the best weather conditions for each crop.
Climate constitutes an important factor for the success of vegetable farming.
Vegetable farmers also need information on the types of soils and their suitability for
different types of vegetables and also availability of water during dry spells. There
8
are four types of soil found in Wareng District notably loam, clay, red and brown. All
these are generally suitable for the growing of vegetables.
Vegetable farmers also require information on the availability of water resources such
as rivers, dams, swamps and streams. Wareng District is endowed with a water dam
and an outlet stream that flows through a swamp which favours vegetable growth
especially during the dry seasons. However, farmers have been experiencing
challenges in the use of river water especially during the dry season as any diversion
means less flow of water downstream. Popular irrigation machines that are used
include the moneymaker which pumps water from the streams and rivers to irrigate
vegetable during the dry season.
Vegetable farmers require information on the market prices for their produce A
number of upcoming markets for vegetable produce include: Kesses, Moi University,
Kapseret, Langas, Simat, Ngeria, and Cheptiret among others.
However, farmers have been experiencing challenges in the use of chemicals on their
crops and therefore require more information on how to apply the chemicals on the
vegetables. Farmers acquire chemicals from agricultural outlets or stores to spur
growth of vegetables to meet demand. These chemicals pose a danger to health of the
consumers of these vegetables. Pesticide chemicals pose certain hazards to users when
handling, mixing and applying on the vegetable farms. Pesticides can enter the human
body through inhalation, by ingestion and through the skin or dermal penetration or .
through cuts, abrasions and rashes of the skin. .Pesticides are available in different
formulation such as „wet‟ (liquid) or „dry‟ (powder, dust). Formulations of pesticides
often determine the risks involved in the use and safety measures to be taken.
9
The major sources of chemical information are the chemical companies and their
representatives. The level of advice provided by these companies needs to be quality
controlled so that farmers are given objective information on potential or actual
impact both positive and negative. The challenges related to agro chemicals include
non- availability of registered products, economies in unit size for purchase and quite
possibly at times, due to non-comprehension of the information on labels on. There is
also the concern with the lack of labelling that specifies use of specific groupings and
on specific species.
Wareng district is in close proximity to Eldoret International Airport. Small scale
farmers often need information on export processes for fresh farm produce in order to
earn from international markets. The airport service has installed a cooling system for
fresh farm produce to facilitate fresh exports.
The other information required by vegetable farmers includes availability of loan and
credit facilities. Many small and medium size enterprises (SMEs ) and banks offer
loans to agribusinesses. These banks include K-REP, Faulu Kenya, Cooperative
Societies, Youth fund (by the government), Women fund, and Constituency
Development Fund. The availability of loan and credit facilities enables vegetable
farmers to purchase seeds, chemicals and fertilizers. All these information require
basic knowledge of pest biology and ecology control as well as reasonable
understanding of consequences of potential impacts of control methods.
10
No one can categorically claim to know all the information needs of farmers
especially in an information dependent sector like agriculture where there are new and
complex problems facing farmers every day.
1.4 Information Systems and Services in Wareng District
1.4.1 Moi University Library Services
Wareng district is endowed with a wide range of information systems and services
though their usage cannot be ascertained. Moi University for example is located
within Wareng district and has a large academic library which boasts of a collection
of information resources such as books and journals that vegetable farmers may
benefit from. Although the library is meant to support academic programmes in the
university, the local community can access the resources at a fee. As stated in the
university library rules and regulations bulletin, non-members may use the library by
permission of the University librarian whereupon a fee shall be charged for
registration.
1.4.2 The Kenya National Library Services (KNLS)
The Kenya National Library Services has a well established public library in Eldoret
town which is in Uasin Gishu County. KNLS provides a crucial gateway to the much
needed information in various forms and means. Like other public libraries worldwide
KNLS branches serve as focal points for community activities. KNLS also provides
outreach services to ensure that many Kenyans have access to information concerning
their daily activities. Public libraries promote social inclusion from among different
11
communities irrespective of age, gender, level of education and economic
backgrounds. The KNLS is an information system and service to vegetable farmers in
Wareng district where they visit in search of information. The services are within their
reach and could take advantage to gain new knowledge.
1.4.3 District Information and Documentation Centre (DIDC)
In the early 1980s the government of Kenya developed a programme called the
District Focus for Rural Development which was aimed at promoting development
programmes and projects from the central government‟s headquarters in Nairobi to
the rural areas. Public participation in support of rural development requires an
informed citizenry. District Development Committees were established to maintain a
programme of public information and to explain the district focus strategy to the
general population. The public information programme should be based on the
experiences gained in various rural development activities around the district and
elsewhere in the country. Knowledge generated through general research should be
disseminated to the public as soon as possible.
This led to the establishment of District Information and Documentation Centres in
several districts in the country including Uasin Gishu County. Each DIDC was
expected to maintain a public display of district maps and project implementation
charts and reports various rural development projects in a district. The services
provided in the DIDC include:
Resource and reference service centre for development information on the district
12
Statistical information, National and District Plans, Technical information for
each sector as an input to the planning monitoring and evaluation of development
projects and activities in the district.
Services for the public to accessing research documents relevant to the public.
The need for reliable and up-to-date information is becoming increasingly important
as every district assumes greater responsibility for planning and implementing
development activities. The development of DIDC is a key element in strengthening
the capacity of districts to manage their development activities.
1.4.4 Agricultural Information Centres
The Ministry of agriculture has a well established structure from the head office in
Nairobi down to the divisional and location levels. At each level there are information
centres where farmers obtain information from agricultural officers. In these centres
agricultural information resources accessible to farmers include annual reports for the
district, newsletters, agricultural policies and research reports.. Besides the
publications, farmers also use information systems such as local NGOs and
Community Based Organizations (CBOs) based in the district where they are active.
There are agricultural information centres in Wareng district based at the district head
office and also at divisional offices. Active NGOs and CBOs are also present in the
district.
13
1.4.5 Agricultural Information Networks
Within the framework of the broader agricultural sector, it is important to include
information landscape with respect to the existing policies, structures and information
flow mechanisms from policy research level through extension to the farmer level.
KARI (Kenya Agricultural Research Institute) initiated information networks for
efficient dissemination of agricultural information to farmers. Among other networks
is KAINet (Kenya Agricultural Information Network) which was initiated in 2006 as
a response to demand from the national and international communities in the
agricultural sector, including researchers, extension workers and others in order to
support decision-making, promote innovation in agriculture and improve livelihoods.
KAINet aims at building capacities in information management, dissemination and
exchange in network members in Kenya. The objectives include establishing
institutional repositories of agricultural information, facilitating the development of
institutional and national informational and communication management.
1.5 Statement of the Problem
Kenya‟s Ministry of Agriculture Strategic Plan for 2008-2012 states that agricultural
sector extension service plays a vital role in sharing of knowledge, technologies,
agricultural information and also linking the farmer to other sectors in the economy.
The extension service is therefore, one of the critical change agents required in the
transformation of subsistence farming to modern and commercial agriculture. This is
critically important in promoting household food security, improving incomes and
reducing poverty. The need for information therefore arises at all levels from that
strategic plan at the national levels and to the grass-root level.
14
One of the core functions of the Ministry as outlined in the Strategic Plan is to
“collect, maintain and manage information on the agriculture sector”. Information
generation and dissemination on all aspects of agriculture is key to the success of this
sector. This information should embrace the totality of the value chain from the farm
to the market. To enable access and to an integrated source of agricultural information
system, a Ministerial ICT strategy is being developed as a roadmap to the envisioned
„e-agriculture. This will entail the development of essential ICT infrastructure and
information delivery mechanism.
Today, users of agricultural information in Kenya are increasing by the day. These
users or farmers depend on information generated by the Ministry of Agriculture and
its research institutions to cater for their information needs. In Wareng district
however, provision of information to vegetable farmers is not up to the expected
standard. The information materials generated are not linked to the information needs
of vegetable farmers. It is thus necessary to enhance the provision of information and
the related information services to these users which formed the basis for this study.
The accuracy, timeliness and format of the information provided to vegetable farmers
in Wareng district cannot be compromised if the satisfaction of these users will be
guaranteed. In addition, there is no significant link between these materials and the
local information needs of vegetable farmers in Wareng district since no study has
been done before to address their information needs. The information needs of
vegetable farmers in Wareng district require a thorough understanding in order that
the information resources and extension services are relevant to these needs. This
study examined agricultural information systems and services in Wareng District and
found to be inadequate. There is need to develop appropriate systems and services to
15
enhance access for the agricultural information that is timely, accurate and relevant to
the vegetable farmers in the district.
1.6 Aim of the study
The aim of the study was to investigate the provision of information to small scale
vegetable farmers in Wareng District, with a view to establishing challenges and
proposing a model for effective and efficient information flow to the vegetable
farmers in the district.
1.7 Objectives of the study
The specific objectives of the study were to:
1. Identify information needs of small –scale vegetable farmers in Wareng
District.
2. Determine the sources of information available to small scale vegetable
farmers in Wareng District.
3. Assess the effectiveness of extension services in dissemination of information
to vegetable farmers.
4. Determine communication channels through which agricultural information is
disseminated to small –scale vegetable farmers in Wareng District.
5. Find out the accessibility and usefulness of the information channels, sources,
services and systems that provide information to vegetable farmers.
6. Identify factors that hinder accessibility to agriculture information by small-
scale vegetable farmers in Wareng District.
7. Suggest ways of improving communication of agricultural information to
small scale vegetable farmers in Wareng District.
16
1.8 Research Questions
The study was guided by the following research questions:
1. What is the nature, range and types of information that small-scale vegetable
farmers in Wareng District need?
2. How useful are the sources, services and systems of information in meeting the
identified information needs?
3. What is the extent of use of different types of communication channels in
disseminating information to small –scale vegetables farmers in Wareng District
are used?
4. What factors hinder the dissemination of information to small scale vegetable
farmers?
5. What challenges are faced by extension officers in disseminating information to
small scale vegetable farmers?
6. What suggestions can be offered to address the challenges identified in providing
information to vegetable farmers?
7. What model can be proposed to enhance provision of information to vegetable
farmers in Wareng District?
1.9 Assumptions of the study
The study was carried out based on the following assumptions:
1. The existing information sources, services and systems hardly satisfy the
information needs of small-scale vegetable farmers in Wareng District. This is
because the information needs of vegetable farmers have not been adequately
addressed.
2. The information systems and services have not been developed in the district
17
3. There is need for improved approach of information provision in terms of
accessibility and dissemination of information to vegetable farmers in Wareng
District.
4. There is a possibility to improve accessibility to information by redesigning of
information systems and services in Wareng district.
1.10 Significance of the study
The study is important because there has not been much research done on farmers‟
information needs in vegetable farming. Due to the increase in population there is
urgent need for increased food production which can be made possible through the
use of timely and relevant information. The results of this study may be used to foster
relationship between farmers, extension officers, consumers and their environment.
The study will form the basis for awareness campaigns on vegetable farming
information hence boosts the economic and health status of rural population in
Wareng District.
The study is also important not only to farmers but also to policy makers and future
researchers on agriculture for the country. The findings emanating from this study are
expected to assist farmers to improve and modernize farming activities hence
contribute to food security in the country.
1.11 Scope and limitations of the study
The study was carried out in Wareng District of Uasin Gishu County of Rift Valley
Province. The conclusion is therefore based on the information provided by vegetable
farmers in the district. The time and financial resources available did not enable the
researcher to cover the entire Uasin Gishu County.
18
1.12 Definition of Operational Terms
The following terms were defined in accordance with the context in which they were
used throughout the study:
Agricultural Information – is information that is needed by small-scale farmers for
carrying out their farming activities.
Agricultural Information Systems – is a system in which information on agriculture
is generated and packaged, disseminated, received and adopted. Feedback is relayed
between extension officers and small-scale vegetable farmers.
Channel – refers to the medium used to convey agricultural information to small-
scale farmers.
Communication – refers to any oral or written exchange of ideas and information
between agricultural extension officers and farmers in Wareng district.
Extension Officer – refers to the disseminator of agricultural information linking the
small-scale farmer and the formal agricultural institutions that generate agricultural
information.
Feedback – refers to the responses relayed back as a result of agricultural information
received by either extension officers or small-scale farmers.
Information – is data that has been analyzed and synthesized to produce meaning and
whose continuous use by small-scale vegetable farmers will improve their knowledge
in farming.
Information Needs – refers to the information requirements of small-scale farmers
that is essential in carrying out their day to day farming activities.
19
Information users – refers to small-scale farmers, agricultural officers who
assimilate and use agricultural information.
Small-scale vegetable farmer – refers to a group of farmers in rural Wareng district
who grow on small-scale farms as their economic activity.
Small-scale vegetable farm – in Kenya it refers to a farm with an average area
spanning 0.1 to 2.0. Acres.
Technology – refers in broad sense to ideas, practices and tools in agricultural
activities for use by small-scale farmers in Wareng district.
20
CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Introduction
The previous chapter introduced the topic giving the aims and objectives of the study
and the preceding research questions. This chapter reviews the literature related to the
study. In particulay it focuses on information needs of farmers, sources of
information, extension services and channels of disseminating information to
vegetable farmers. The chapter also discusses communication theory and its
applicability to this study.
According to Hart (2006) literature review is done to find out what already exists in
the area in which the study is being researched on. The review forms the foundation
for research and the researcher needs to know about the contributions others have
made to the knowledge pool relevant to the topic. Furthermore, quality review means
appropriate breadth and depth of the subject, the rigour and consistency, clarity and
brevity, and effective analysis and synthesis. In the other words, the use of the ideas in
the literature is to justify the particular approach to the topic, the selection of methods,
and the demonstration that this research contributes something new.
2.2 Theoretical Framework
Theoretically, information behaviour is one of the richest research areas in the field of
libraries and information science. Since calls for conceptual enrichment within the
field of information behaviour in the post 1978 literature, much effort has been
expended to generate new theories and develop new models of human information
behaviour. There has been a paradigm shift from focus on the system to focus on the
21
user. During the 1960s and 1970s the focus of the studies was on the system and the
researchers tried to understand the users and their needs through the study of the
system or the resources used. Since the paradigm shift, researchers have paid more
attention to the user and their characteristics. Different approaches have been adopted
for the study of information behaviour of users and the new methodologies have been
developed or adopted from other fields such as social sciences.
In this study the researcher has mainly applied the theory of information behaviour as
advocated by Garbners‟ theory of communication, Wilsons‟ model of information and
the new improved Wilsons‟ model of information behavoiur by Niedwiezdzka (2003).
During the last decades, relations between communication studies and information
science has become close. The concepts of information and communication studies
are spreading more and widely. Garbner (1962) defines communication as a social
interaction through messages. Information is defined as interpretation of message that
reduces uncertainly. This shows a link between the two concepts.
Communication tailored to the audience‟ background and experience can improve
people‟s participation in development. Through communication people get
information that influences their decision as well as limiting their ignorance and thus
making them aware of issues touching their daily activities (Waswa,(1998).
Communication is the process of conveying information from source to a receiver
through a predetermined channel. According to Maceviciute (1999) communication is
a very broad term encompassing different messages, media, and goals. It includes
interpersonal dialogue, formal message and instructions.
22
2.2.1 Concept of Information
The concept of information is between data and knowledge which is communicated or
received concerning a particular fact or circumstance in order to reduce the users
uncertainly. Information is also defined as that which reduces uncertainty.
Information is prima facie something that flows between a sender and a receiver. The
concept of information is embedded in more or less explicit theoretical structures. In
studying information it is easy to be one‟s orientation .According to Capurro (2005),
the most important distinction is that between information as an object or a thing (e.g.
number of bits) and information as a subjective concept, information as a sign; that is
depending on the interpretation of a cognitive agent.
2.2.2 Information Needs
In day to day work, lack of self sufficiency constitutes information needs. This
information needs represent gaps in the current knowledge of the user. Apart from the
expressed or articulated needs, there are unexpressed needs which the user is aware of
but does not like to express. The third category of need is the delitescent or dormant
need which the user is unaware of. But the information services provider may be able
to bring to light these needs.
Information need is defined by Ojiambo and Ocholla (1993) as “a value judgment that
some group has a problem that can be solved. The value judgment exists due to
differences in need requirements by individuals or groups of people. A need therefore
has to be discovered and attempts made to satisfy that need”.
23
Odini (1993) says an information need as “a concept difficult to define, to isolate and
especially to measure. This is because users do not specify what is needed under
defined conditions. If a user could specify what is needed under defined conditions
his/her problem might well be on the way towards solution.”
For this study, it is important to understand the nature and work of small-scale
vegetable farmers in Wareng district. This will then point out the problems that exist
and the needs to be addressed. The success of any information service is to address
and meet the information needs of an individual or group. A needs analysis which
involves the identification and evaluation of needs will assist in establishing
appropriate collection of resources to satisfy these needs. The analysis may also help
to point out the kind of improvement needed for effective utilization of existing
information services.
A need is specific and generally time bound, either immediate or deferred. The
information provided for a need will be used. In the case of interest, the information
provided may be used or may not be used. According to Crawford (1978),
information needs depend on:
Work activity
Discipline/ Field / Area of interest
Availability of facilities
Hierarchical position of individuals
Motivation factors for information needs
Need to take a decision
Need to seek new ideas
24
Need to validate the correct ones
Need to make professional contributions
Need to establish priority for discovery etc.
Information needs are affected by a variety of factors such as:
The range of information sources available;
. The uses to which the information will be put;
The background, motivation, professional orientation and other individual
characteristics of the user;
The social, political, economic, legal and regulatory systems surrounding the
user; and
The consequences of information use.
A model may be described as a framework for thinking about a problem and may
evolve into a statement of the relationships among theoretical propositions. Most
models in the general field of information behaviour are of the former variety: they
are statements, often in the form of diagrams that attempt to describe an information-
seeking activity, the causes and consequences of that activity, or the relationships
among stages in information-seeking behaviour. Rarely do such models advance to
the stage of specifying relationships among theoretical propositions: rather, they are at
a pre-theoretical stage, but may suggest relationships that might be fruitful to explore
or test.
This study is based on the Defleur‟s communication, Wilson‟s information behaviour
model which was later improved by Barbara Niedzwiedzka‟s model of information
behaviour. Shannon and Weaver (1949) developed general model of communication
25
at Bell telephone laboratory. Shannon‟s model describes communication as a linear
one way process.
This model states the functions to be performed and notes one dysfunctional factor,
noise. First in the process of the information source, producing a message or a chain
of messages to be communicated. In the next step the message is formed into signals
by transmitter. The signals should be adapted to the channel leading to the receiver.
The receiver reconstructs the message from the signal. The received message reaches
the destination.
The signal is vulnerable to disturbances or noise as indicated by Shannon. This may
result in difference between transmitted and received signals which means that the
massage produced by the source and reconstructed by the receiver may not have the
same meaning at the destination. Shannon‟s model being linear or one way process.
Defleur‟s (1970) developed it further in a discussion about the correspondent between
the meaning of the produced and the receiver message. Delfeur notes that in the
communication process „meaning‟ is transformed into „message‟ and describes how
the transmitter transforms „message‟ into information which then passes through
channel.
The receiver decodes the „information‟ into a message which is in turn transformed at
the destination into meaning. Defleur added another element to Shannon‟s model of
feedback. This gives the source the possibility of adapting more effectively its way of
communicating to the destination.
For the communication to the effective the theory takes into consideration the
following variables:
26
the image the sender has of the receiver and vice versa
the personal experiences values and expectations of both the source and the
receivers.
the variations of meaning that symbols and situations have
the many and varying aspects of the art of context within which the art of
communication is taking place.
2.1.5 Relevance of Defleurs’ theory to the study
Source
The „source‟ in this study is the originator of the message. The source encodes the
message in a language that can be understood by the receiver in a channel which the
receiver can use. This includes libraries, information centers, ministry of agriculture;
agro-chemical companies, farmer‟s associations and societies etc. The above sources
of information provide information of vegetable farmers of Wareng district.
Channel
The channel is the formal medium of communication between the originators of
information to the receiver who is the vegetable farmer. The channels includes
agricultural extension services, seminars, workshops, agricultural shows, exhibitions,
demonstrations, print media, electronic media, computer databases, internet,
agricultural networks, farmers field schools, field days.
Transmitter
Transmission takes place at the „source‟ which could be a library or agricultural
extension services. The message is transferred into information. The recipient of the
information is the vegetable farmer.
27
Destination/Receiver
The destination is the vegetable farmers of Wareng district. The receiver decodes the
message in order to extract meaning.
Noise
According to Shannon and Weaver noise is a factor which interferes with the
message. It is any interference with the success of the communication process thereby
distorting the message so that the meaning intended is not achieved. Noise may
originate in the source, channel, receiver or the context within which participants
interact. Noise includes such aspects as language barrier, busy schedules, form
presentation and accessibility to information, educational levels of vegetables farmers,
the technical nature of the information, illiteracy among others.
Feedback
This refers to any process by which the communicator obtains information and
whether the intended receiver has received the message. By way of feedback, the
sender is able to fudge the extent to which the message has been successfully received
and its impact. This enables the communication act to adapted be and regulated to
achieve is desired effect.
2.1.6 Wilson’s Information Behaviour Model
The aim of this model is to outline the various areas covered as information-seeking
behaviour, as an alternative to the then common information needs, but it is clear that
the scope of the diagram is much greater and that it attempts to cover most of what is
included here as information behaviour.
28
Figure 1: Wilson's information behaviour model
2.1.7 Relevance of Wilson’s model to the study
The model suggests that information-seeking behaviour arises as a consequence of a
need perceived by an information user, who, in order to satisfy that need, makes
demands upon formal or informal information sources or services, which result in
success or failure to find relevant information. If successful, the individual then makes
use of the information found and may either fully or partially satisfy the perceived
need - or, indeed, fail to satisfy the need and have to reiterate the search process.
The model also shows that part of the information-seeking behaviour may involve
other people through information exchange and that information perceived as useful
may be passed to other people, as well as being used (or instead of being used) by the
person himself or herself.
One of the results of the analysis that led to the diagram was the recognition that
information use had received little attention and, within information science, that
statement is still relatively true today. Nor has much attention been devoted to the
29
phenomenon of the informal transfer of information between individuals since Allen's
pioneering work on transferring to the research laboratory the 'two-step' flow of
communication model of the 'gatekeeper'. The identification of these areas as
relatively lacking in research attention demonstrates one of the functions of these
models. From Wilson‟s model, one can deduce that in spite of individual features; the
information needs of the same person can vary depending on the changes in the
environment. The features of the roles a person plays in life including professional
roles are the effect of the behaviour patterns established in a society for that particular
role. Examples are leaders, managers, farmers, teachers or members of a group.
Certain roles indicate specific information needs.
2.1.8 Barbara Niedzwiedzka Model of Information Behaviour
In this study the researcher has mainly applied the theory of information behaviour
from the Defleur„s communication model and to the Wilson (1996) model of
information. The new model of information behaviour as designed and modified by
Barbara Niedzewiedzka (2003) is also applied. This new model notes that Wilson‟s
model assumes two propositions; first that information needs are secondary needs,
caused by primary needs, which accordance with definitions in psychology can be
defined as physiological, cognitive or affective. Cognitive needs arise as an attempt to
find sense and order in the world, and are the realization of a need to explain and
make sense out of phenomena. The rise of a particular need is influenced by the
context, which can be the person, the role the person plays in work and life, or the
environment (social, political, economical, technological etc). This is an ideal
situation among vegetable farmers in Wareng district whereby the primary need for
farmers is appropriate information which helps them in production of high yield
vegetables with good value.
30
Niedzewiedzka‟s new proposed model criticizes Wilson‟s model in that it cannot be
used to describe agricultural officers‟ information behaviour since these officers
basically are not the end users of external information from organizations or
computerized information services as they also acquire information through various
intermediaries. Therefore, the model cannot be considered as a general model
applicable to every category of information users. This is true with vegetable farmers
in Wareng district because not all farmers go out to seek for information on their own
but some depend on their fellow farmers or neighbours to get information.
31
Figures 2: Niedzewieddzka’s model of 2003
32
Niedzewieddzka‟s model proposed model encompasses the main concepts of
Wilson‟s model such as: person in context, three categories of intervening variables
(individual, social and environmental), activating mechanisms, cyclic character of
information behaviour and the adoption of multidisciplinary approach to explain
them.
This new model shows two basic strategies of information seeking:
a) a user seeks information personally, or
b) a user uses the help or services of other people.
According to Niedzwiedzka a user can choose one, the other or both or the strategies.
A fully independent user applies his/her knowledge, available sources and interacts
with search systems and information services (uses databases, catalogues, search
engines etc). Such a rare user also selects and processes the acquitted information
personally. Probably much often people use various intermediaries and their services
(information specialists, agricultural extension officers, co-farmers) and utilize the
effects of their information seeking and processing. A user can also almost entirely
depend upon intermediaries, and he/she acts independently only at the stage of mental
processing information. It was said „almost‟ because economics of information
behaviour probably makes an individual use sources that are at hand appropriate
without using a mediator. But usually it is an intermediary who engages in systematic
information activities: asking, seeking and searching, for this kind of user.
Managers according to Niedzwiedzka belong to the second category. They
predominantly turn to the various intermediaries to obtain necessary data and
evidence. They usually do use the time to do the information seeking, and thus prefer
to get the final product while the process is done by the intermediaries.
33
In conclusion, Defleurs, Wilson‟s and Niedzwiedzka‟s models are „important to this
study because they outline all players in the information needs and communication
process. Information reaches the vegetable farmers from the source through a medium
to its destination‟. The use of timely information in farming results in good field
hence, the impact of the „message‟ or information.
2.3 Review of Literature related to the study as per the objectives
Data is a Latin word used to describe a collection of natural phenomena descriptors
including the results of experience, observation or experiment, a set of premises or
information within a computer system. This may consist of numbers, words, or
images, particularly as measurement or observations of a set of variables (Wikipedia,
2008).
Information is perceived as something between data and knowledge which is
communicated or received concerning a particular fact of circumstance in order to
reduce uncertainty.
In the course of seeking information, there is the concept of an information need.
(Ojiambo, 1993) defines an information need as a value judgment that group has a
problem that can be solved. The value judgment exists due to differences in need
requirements by individuals or groups. One farmer may regard information as vital
and another may not. The recognition of need is therefore one‟s judgment. A need can
only be discovered. Information therefore is sought to meet a need.
A broad range of control approaches is open to the farmer, each approach with its own
set of implications for the kind of information that should be available (Midmore,
34
2005). Integrated pest management requires the farmer to be knowledgeable about the
identity and role of beneficial insects and other biological control agents, about the
role of potential disadvantages of pesticides use and abuse and a wide range of
cultural and crop sanitation practices that reduce pest incidences, (Wellings 2007).
Vegetable farmers also require information on the nature of the soil suitable foe
vegetable farming and also the rainfall patterns that favour vegetables.
These and other information requirements depend on access to comprehensive support
services, able to identify and diagnose pest to allow the farmer to make immediate
decisions about control. The information that support on farm pest management
decision making should be easily accessible and with clear understanding of
instructions.
The bulk of farming population in Wareng District are peasant farmers who mainly
produce staple food for subsistence and very little surplus for marketing.
Vegetables are grown in this District to supplement maize, wheat and livestock
products. Vegetables mainly grown in the division includes Kales (Sukuma wiki),
cabbages, carrots, tomatoes, onions, peas etc. other traditional vegetables include
black night or (isochek) in the local language), isagek, (spider leaves) pumpkin leaves
and fruits, and others with local names.
The cultivation of vegetables has become increasingly important because of the rapid
growth of towns and urban centres in the new Wareng district and by extension to the
larger Uasin Gishu County. Most of the people in urban require regular supplies from
the market. In vegetable growing, pesticides are major control agents.
35
These are frequently supplied by organizations such as cooperatives or sales agents
for major pesticide companies and are often applied as calendar prophylactic
treatments. In such cases, one frequently observes a spillover effect for pesticide
application on food crops gown for home consumption ( Arusei, 2000).
In most countries such as Kenya there is an acute shortage of adequately trained plant
protection specialists, a lack of well-organised plant protection service and generally
poor linkages between agricultural research, extension agents and farmers. This lack
of guidance presents severe problems for farmers in particular when it comes to
chemical control, Mengech and Saxena (1995).
Leslie(1993) notes that most vegetable growers have responded to consumer and
industry demands and increased pest pressure by using pesticides. Pesticides are not
applied maliciously to poison the environment or people, and certainly producers
must live with the consequences of their agricultural practices more closely than most
sectors of the society. Most recently food safety has focused on the public attention on
pesticide use in vegetables. It is therefore, necessary that producers, regulators, and
researchers respond to consumer concerns with consumer education and approaches
that are environmentally and socially acceptable.
2.3 .1 Farming in Africa
Over the years, deliberate, though ineffective efforts have been made by donors and
African countries to bring about agricultural development without much to show for
it. Much of the failure can be attributed to the adapted transformation approach to
agriculture which is characterized by the introduction of a wide variety of large scale
farming and processing technologies.
36
It is however gratifying to note that there is a new shift in emphasis from the big
scale transformation approaches to the small scale improvement strategy approach
which is attuned to African age-long farm practice.
The failure can also be attributed to the treatment of information delivery as a matter
of course by most African governments. As often happens, agricultural information is
not integrated with other development programmes to address the numerous related
problems that face farmers.
If the approaches to agricultural development programmes are to work, African
governments need to take new approaches to information dissemination and
management that grow out from a clear understanding of what farmers‟ information
needs are.
Many governments in Africa still favour subsidizing pesticides which may lead to
overuse in particular when proper extensions services are lacking or weak. Certain
donor countries add to this problem when supplying large amounts of pesticides as
part of an aid package without targeting these pesticides properly and without giving
enough assistance to ensure their proper use. The seriousness of the situation is
illustrated by a survey carried out by FAO. According to this, fewer than half of the
countries of Africa including those North of the Sahara appear to have legislation on
pesticides, (FAO (1987).
Most countries are not yet able to comply with all the provisions of the international
code of conduct on the distribution and use of pesticides adopted by the FAO
conference in 1986. The code is an agreement between member countries and the
37
International Group of National Associations of Manufacturer of Agrochemical
products ( GIFAP) on procedures to be followed in relation to import/export
distribution and use of pesticides (Schulten, 1989).
Agriculture in Kenya
Agriculture remains the most important economic activity in Kenya, although less
than 8% of the land is used for crop and feed production. Less than 20% of the land is
suitable for cultivation, of which only 12% is classified as high potential (adequate
rainfall) agricultural land and about 8% is medium potential land. The rest of the land
is arid or semiarid. About 80% of the work force engages in agriculture or food
processing. Farming in Kenya is typically carried out by small producers who usually
cultivate no more than two hectares (about five acres) using limited technology. These
small farms, operated by about three million farming families, account for 75% of
total production. Although there are still important European-owned coffee, tea, and
sisal plantations, an increasing number of peasant farmers grow cash crops.
From independence in 1963 to the oil crisis in 1973, the agricultural sector expanded
by undergoing two basic changes: first, widespread acceptance of private ownership
(replacing community ownership) and cash crop farming; second, the success of
intensive nationwide efforts to expand and upgrade the production of African
smallholders. Before World War II (1939–45) ended, agricultural development
occurred almost exclusively in the "White Highlands," an area of some 31,000 sq km
(12,000 sq mi) allocated to immigrant white settlers and plantation companies. Since
independence, as part of a land consolidation and resettlement policy, the Kenya
government, with financial aid from the United Kingdom, has gradually transferred
large areas to African ownership. European-owned agriculture remains generally
large-scale and almost entirely commercial.
38
After the 1973 oil crisis, agricultural growth slowed as less untapped land became
available. Government involvement in marketing coupled with inefficient trade and
exchange rate policies discouraged production during the 1970s. Coffee production
boomed in the late 1970s and in 1986 temporarily helped the economy in its struggle
away from deficit spending and monetary expansion. Although the expansion of
agricultural export crops has been the most important factor in stimulating economic
development, much agricultural activity is also directed toward providing food for
domestic consumption. Kenya's agriculture is sufficiently diversified to produce
nearly all of the nation's basic foodstuffs. To some extent, Kenya also helps feed
neighboring countries.
In Kenya agriculture is an important sector to the national economy. It contributes
26% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In addition the sector is estimated to have
indirect contribution of about 27% GDP through linkages with the manufacturing,
distribution and other service related sectors. The sector also accounts for 60% of the
national employment mainly in rural areas, 60% of the export earning, and 45% of the
government revenue. It is therefore evident that the sector plays a critical role in
addressing the national goals of poverty eradication, increasing rural incomes,
creating employment and guaranteeing food security, (Republic of Kenya, 2004).
2.3.2 History of Agriculture in Wareng District
Wareng district lies between the highland plateaus with varying altitude. It forms an
undulating plateau from east to west. The district landform therefore makes Wareng a
high potential agricultural area. The District also has high equatorial climate with a
mean annual rainfall of 1,124mm. The rainfall is fairly distributed with one long wet
season and a short dry spell.
39
Average temperature is favourable for agricultural activities. The types of soils in
Wareng district vary with altitude, temperature and the underlying rocks. The district
is endowed with brown loamy soil which is good for horticultural activities such as
vegetable farming.
The above climatic conditions that describes the coverage in Wareng district makes it
a highly potential agricultural district where growth of vegetables and other crops is
done.
2.3.3 Role of Extension Workers in the Dissemination of Information
Extension is prerequisite to widespread and sustained agriculture development. Benor,
(1984) notes that extension services in Kenya is a Training and Visit system that aims
to improve the management and efficiently of the entire extension system. It is time
bound and is designed to deliver selected, timely and relevant information about
farming in general with minimal delay.
Extension staff are responsible to farmers to explain the most important farming
technologies, application and the various uses they have on the farmers. This should
enable the farmers to make decisions to adopt better farming methods and improve
production. Extension personnel are people whose work is to pass information
directly to the farmers, (Ngetich, 2005).
The farmers are responsible for agricultural degradation. Extension services are
needed to explain new technology to the farmers and teach them to adopt improved
production practices in order to increase their production and income. Extension
services has a vital role in ensuring that the agro-economic and social environment of
40
farmers and the day to day production problems that farmers face are appreciated by
research. Without extension guidance farmers often are unable to fully exploit
opportunities available to them (Benar and Baxter, 1989).
The extension service workers should be knowledgeable about the latest scientific
knowledge on sustainable practices. According to the National Development Plan
2000-2008 on “Effective Management for Sustainable Economic Growth and Poverty
Reduction” the GOK indicated that it would continue to play a crucial role in the
dissemination of relevant information to farmers through extension and training
services. Information pertaining to the use of agricultural inputs market prices;
efficient land use etc. will be disseminated to farmers.
Through extension the government intends to continue to emphasize awareness and
adoption for new technologies which can enable farmers to achieve greater yields,
(Gok, 1996:5).
The main objectives of Kenya‟s agricultural extension policy are:-
Education of farmers mainly the spatial diffusion of new technologies sand
information in agriculture by the simplification of reporting procedure and reaching
many farmers.
c) Development of linkages between farmers and agricultural research
stations, researchers, agricultural staff, NGO‟s.
d) Provision of additional transport facilities to agriculture staff to enable
them reach farmers.
e) Improvement in the training for extension staff.
41
f) Development of more demonstration plots to illustrate the effectiveness
and profitability of improved production techniques.
g) Improvement in the dissemination of information using farming guides
and other materials to farmers.
2.3.4 Agricultural Information Services
Agricultural information services aims at making sure that farmers can find the
precise information they need, when they need it and in forms which the farmers can
understand. For vegetable farmers in Wareng district, farmers seek new information
to improve productivity and overcome poverty and food security.
The farmers who are rural based require information which is powerful tool in
addressing agricultural needs and when used appropriately can radically change a
nation‟s economy. Kizilaslan (2006). There is a widespread belief that information is
vital for rural development and Munyua (2000) regards information as the least
expensive input for rural development and it can also be viewed as a basic, necessary
ingredient for bringing about social and economic change of a country.
As noted above vegetable farmers in Wareng district require information on inter-alia
that supply of agricultural inputs (seed, fertilizer) new technologies and innovations,
early warning mechanisms (for pests, drought, diseases) credit facilities, markets and
such like.
Vegetable farmers require information on certified seeds for planting. The KEPHIS
and Kenya Seed Company and KARI are the research organizations that sell certified
seeds. The quality of the seeds yields quality products for harvest. The research
42
institutions ensure that certified seed reach farmers through outlets and selected
stockists. These organizations also provide instructions on the seed containers and
issue leaflets on the best ways of planting the seeds.
Use of fertilizer by vegetable farmers is an information need. Soils are fragile. To give
the best output soils need to be regularly nourished and cared for, and allowed to rest
from time to time. When soils are used for intense cultivation soils quickly become
degraded hence low productivity.
Restoring and maintaining soil fertility is a vital perquisite for increasing output.
Therefore, chemical fertilizer remains essential .CTA (2009). Vegetable farmers apply
chemical fertilizer and compost, manure, etc. Fertilizers alone do not make soils
fertile. Fertilizers is a highly carbon intensive acidic nutrient source.
Farmers need to be educated on good agricultural practicals such as intercropping
legumes (beans, groundnuts, pigeon pea) with cereals (maize, millets, sorghum)…
Motivating and encouraging small-scale farmers to use manure, crop residues and
compost to enrich their fields” CTA (2009)
Vegetable farmers require information on new technologies and their adoption.
Introduction of modern irrigation systems enable vegetable farmers to produce
vegetable all fear round.
Farmers using drip and sprinkler irrigation mechanisms results in quality vegetables
enough for local consumption and sales. Extension services provide training using
micro-irrigation systems. The training involves choosing durable materials technical
43
know-how and use of equipment. The introduction of money-maker irrigation
equipment which has revolutionarized vegetable farming among small-scale farmers.
The money-maker is a manual machine that uses pedals and hose pipes to draw water
from the river, stream or well and use sprinklers to water plants. It is mechanical
equipment which has provided useful and popular with small-scale vegetable farmers
of Wareng district.
Vegetable farmer require access to basic training. The information disseminated
increases their output. Massive financial support to buy seed and fertilizer is not
enough to help producers (farmers) undertake structural reforms and significantly
increase productivity. There can be no sustainable improvement unless farmers
require solid foundation, Spore No. 136 (2008).
For a long time agricultural extension officers were there to teach farmers improved
productivity techniques. CTA 2008 notes that there is need to put in place mass
professional training programmes aimed at all farmers in a country if results are to be
swift and far reaching. It adds that villagers are to be persuaded to stay where there
are rather than leave for urban areas, it is important to view rural as a whole and not
first focus on agricultural production. Additionally, farmers must learn how to press
for their rights and take part in the disinfectant of policies that affect them.
To achieve such results expert in education for Rural People (ERP) programme stress
the need to create national strategies involving ministries of Education, Agricultural,
natural Resources and Health. The training strategy should however be part of a wider
framework tailored to answer the needs of a country. In order to produce results, it
44
should go hand in hand with services to farmers such as organizing markets, securing
supplies of inputs, maintaining infrastructure and ensuring land tenure.
Vegetable farmers also required information on selling products or markets. As noted
by CTA (2005) “farming is fraught with uncertainty. The risks starts from the moment
a farmer plants a crop, and ends only when solve of harvest is completed.” As any
farmer knows, making a living from the land is a risky business. “First there is the
weather. At any point, the harvest can be compromised or damaged. Then there are
pests, and diseases. A plague of locusts can strip a field in minutes. Last, but not least,
is the uncertainty of the marketplace. Will the farmer find a buyer? How much will
the fruits of labour fetch? It is hardly a recipe for a good night‟s sleep. Today one of
the biggest threats facing farmers if the risk of falling crop prices. Since the beginning
of the 1990‟s the liberalization of commodity trading and pricing in developing
countries has shifted the burden of risk from governments to farmer. As bad luck
would have it, price volatility is greater for commodities traded by poor country. Thus
vegetable farmers face competition from liberalized market for their produce. Otieno,
(2009)
Vegetable farmers require information on credit facilities to enable them buy quality
seeds which yields quality harvests. Traditionally, the major banks have been
reluctant to extend their services to rural communities. Problems such as remoteness,
low population densities in rural areas, and the small size of most transactions are
compounded by the lack of roads, postal services and fixed telephone services.
45
It is not profitable enough for banks to set up branches “in the middle of nowhere.”
As a result so many people remain „unbanked‟ i.e. they have no bank account and no
access to financial services, CTA (2007)
However, recently a number of micro-finances have begun to reach out to the farmers
and offer financial services. Information technology such as mobile banking services
has been enhanced and is becoming widespread in rural areas. Farmers therefore can
access credit facilities from micro-finances and boost their productivity. The risks
involved arise from the fact that farmers are dependent on agriculture for their
livelihoods. Natural disasters such as drought or floods can affect the entire
community.
2.3.5 The types of communication channels used to disseminate information
The majority of farmers live in rural areas where infrastructure necessary for
accessing information is poor. Electricity supply, telephone services and poor road
network adds to challenges farmers face in accessing information. In addition literacy
levels rules out the use of print media.
Aina (1995) observes that the level of ICT is still low in Africa, the provision of
agricultural information through electronic media is not common.
Because of this scenario, it has been difficult for researchers, extension officers,
planners and decision markers to access information. It has also been difficult to share
information amongst the farming community.
However, the current introduction of ICT to the rural areas through use of mobile
phones, short messaging (SMS) radio, television and even web-based programmes on
46
internet has changed the lives of farmers. This is the case in Wareng district where
farmers access agricultural information with the help of ICT to rural based farmers.
2.3.5.1 The Radio
Radio is the most widely used medium in dissemination of agricultural information.
Also within the district farmers also share information among themselves via formal
networks such as cooperatives and associations. Informal networks are also useful,
although resources are often limited to the immediate area. For many vegetable
farmers in Wareng district the only source of information outside the community is
the radio.
Radio sets are relatively inexpensive and can be used in remote areas where electricity
supply is non-existent. Local radio also gives farmers a voice, enabling them to share
their knowledge and experiences and to acquire practical information that they can
use to improve their livelihoods.
Traditionally, radio has been a one-way communication medium, where the
programme makers deliver information to the listeners. But in recent years the
number of FM radio stations has increased and new information technologies have
become more accessible providing many possibilities for development of more
interactive two way communication for farmers.
Farmers ask questions to the experts on agricultural services and instant answers are
provided. Mali Shambani is an interactive radio programme initiated by FIT
Resources-Kenya, a non-profit company offering business development services,
which is designed to increase access to farming information for smallholder farmers
and the fishing community in Kenya. Launched in 2006, the radio programme, which
47
in Kiswahili means "wealth in the farms", is broadcast throughout the country with
information adapted to local languages, issues, and needs. The programme is an
activity of Agricultural Cooperative Development International/Volunteers in
Overseas Cooperative Assistance (ACDI/VOCA)'s United States Agency for
International Development (USAID)-funded Kenya Maize Development Project.
According to the organisers, the radio shows are developed with farmers' needs in
mind, and content is driven by what the farmers themselves want to hear and learn
about. The programme provides information on farming techniques, inputs, quality
standards, weather and seasonal issues, market prices and trends, business tips, land
use, and financing opportunities.
Each programme also features a question-and-answer segment, where listeners can
call (or text-message/use short messaging service (SMS) to communicate with) the
radio station and interact live with a featured panel of experts. In order to fulfil the
aim of providing relevant information to farmers, the programme strategy involves
bringing together radio station producers, agriculture information content providers,
advertisers, and farmers.
The Mali Shambani programme was piloted in Kiswahili on the Kenya Broadcasting
Corporation (KBC), but subsequently expanded to vernacular stations, allowing issues
and topics to not only be broadcast in local languages, but also to be localised to the
specific agricultural or aquacultural needs of that region. For example, Radio Salaam
will broadcast in Kiswahili about fisheries and fruit farming in the coastal areas where
this kind of farming activity is most practised. On the other hand, Coro FM will
broadcast in Kikuyu, and will cover dairy farming, which is popular in Central Kenya
region.
48
2.3.5.2 Mobile phones
At the same time, use of mobile phones throughout the country has surged, changing
the way people communicate. Users can easily receive and send information, images
and even money anywhere in the world. Used in combination with radio stations,
mobile technology has also brought a new dimension to radio programming. For
starters, listeners call the radio stations to request information or advice, question
guest speakers or talk to other callers. Presenters may also encourage listeners to send
text messages (SMS) with requests to answers questions and participate in contests,
ICT Update (2009). Since 2007 African Farm Radio Research Initiative (AFRRI) has
been studying the effectiveness of radio in supporting agricultural of radio in
supporting agricultural development and improved food production.
An example of its implementations is radio stations in Ghana, Malawi Uganda and
Tanzania. AFRRI regularly receives feedback from small-scale farmers in the 5
countries. Farmers often ask for copies of programmes for neighbours who missed the
initial broadcast and listen to them again in their own time. Recordings of
programmes are done using MP3 players.
2.3.5.3 Safaricom Mobile text messaging
Safaricom mobile network services have introduced a mobile texting service called
agricultural produce uploaded on its network. Farmers are able to access such as
agricultural produce information such as market prices of maize, beans, potatoes,
cabbages, beans etc. the service also offers buying and selling prices according to
market prices. A request is made through the mobile free of charge and the answer is
given promptly.
49
2.3.5.4 Voice
Agricultural extension officers have given farmers mobile numbers to call for help.
The phone line would guide the farmers by providing all the information needed. The
farmers call using the number and voice officers the choice of listening in Kiswahili
or English. The current FM stations broadcast in local languages such that farmers
understand the advice and first hand information in their local languages.
2.3.5.5 Wireless Network
Another method of disseminating agricultural information to farmers is via wireless
networks. An example is in Ghana where a community started a project spanning 20
KM radius. The network offers connectivity to schools, businesses and community
activity centres. Each node has an antenna, a router and various cables. The
community has realized economic gains and can access information especially
farmers searching for tips on rural agricultural processes to improve their harvests and
discover new markets for their crop, ICT update (2008).
2.3.5.6 Pod casting
A pod cast is a radio-style programme that can be downloaded from the internet and
listened to on a computer or an Mp3 player or burned onto a CD. The growing
demand for information about all aspects of farming whereby farmers want to know
where they can obtain new and improved seeds for the next planting season, where to
market their crops, and what better farming practices will help to maintain soil
fertility, conserve water and improve output is relayed to the farmer through pod
casting.
50
2.3.5.7 Web 2.0
This is known as participatory web. Some call it user-generated or user-centered web.
It covers such a wide range of applications including blogs, and feeds to social book
markings, social networking and media sharing sites. This is being applied to rural
settings. This ability to connect and exchange information offers many new
opportunities especially for small –scale farmers. They can link up with each other on
social. Networking sites such as face book.
An example is a case of a village in Bungoma, Kenya named Lwanda where a
Mbambe Rural Resource Management Programme was established, ICT update
(2007). Community of Mbambe with the help of NGO‟S purchased solar panels and a
refurbished computer. The idea was to train farmers to use online integrated pest
management tools. The project is a success since telecenters have been set up and
farmers and all locals can access online information on education, child mortality,
malnutrition and poverty and increasing agricultural crop yields in an environmentally
sustainable manner. This clearly demonstrates how small-scale farmers can access
information on the internet located in villages. Solar panels are used to supply power.
This is possible with small-scale vegetable farmers in Wareng district.
Another example is the village of Kibae located 150 KM north of Nairobi on the
slopes of Mt. Kenya, ICT Update (2008) . The fertile land here allows the small-scale
farmers in the area to grow a wide range of fruit and vegetables. But like most people
living in rural Kenya, those living around Kibae have no access to electricity from the
main grid. In 2004 the community decided to use another of its local natural resources
a 12M high waterfall to produce electricity. A community power centre project was
established and the community can earn money from. The services at the Community
51
Project Centre include providing ICT services such as computer training, internet
access and telephone kiosks (telecentres).
As the centre becomes more established within the community it can also become
local trading centre offering mobile banking and market information services for
farmers and buyers. Farmers can use the centre to access market information and to
search for methods to improve crop productivity. The centre also has a satellite where
people can pay to watch popular events or organizations can hire to show information
videos.
2.4 Sources used by farmers in accessing information
Primary sources
Primary sources embrace those materials, which contain information that were
initially derived from recording of insights, discoveries, accounts of experiments,
findings and conclusion. They are normally the latest information in the field.
Okwilagwe (1995) asserts that primary sources of information are original by nature
as a result of the fact that they have not been condensed or evaluated by somebody
else.
Primary source constitutes the most current materials in the library. They help the
users to be current and be well informed about new discoveries in the various fields.
Examples of primary sources used in agricultural information include periodicals,
research journals, reports, conference proceedings, trade, literature, laboratory note,
patents standards, theses/dissertations and government publications. In most Kenyan
Libraries, science and technological periodicals are very important primary sources of
information.
52
Secondary sources
The secondary sources include those whose information is organized from primary
sources thereby making such concepts idea/information to appear at another level or
form. In other words, they are primary sources repackaged or organized in more
usable or convenient forms. The republication or repackaging is often done after a
considerable period of time has passed. Examples include textbooks, reference
encyclopedia, dictionaries, handbooks, bibliographies, abstracting and indexing
journals and other reference materials.
Tertiary sources
Tertiary sources of information refer to information which is removed from primary
and secondary sources. In this direction, tertiary sources aid clientele in using primary
and secondary sources. Following the exponential growth of knowledge, there are
varieties of scientific and technological materials in this source. Examples include:
directories, bibliographies of science and technology, reviews, list of research in
progress etc. Tertiary sources are therefore collections of primary and secondary that
have been distilled or filtered from either primary or secondary sources.
Non-documentary sources
This refers to oral discussions on science and technology. Information in this form
enhances concentration and they can be tailored to match the actual participants with
instantaneous feedback. Meetings of specialists such as scientists and technologists
offer the possibility of spontaneous reciprocal exchanges. However, their growing
number and the fact that they are increasingly becoming scattered geographically,
makes it impossible for specialists to participate in as many of them as they would
like. Examples of non-documentary sources include farmers‟ field and demonstration
days, barazas and also extension officer‟s visitations to group farmers.
53
Scientific and technical information (STI)
It should be mentioned here that STI sources are ever increasing and growing more
diverse and so it is the responsibility of the library to adequately capture (acquire)
them and make them available to users.
CD-ROM technology and STI
CD-ROM is a veritable medium of storing and disseminating STI in the developed
and developing world. CD-ROMs are very durable, they are scratch resistant, do not
warp, and are not susceptible to erasure from electric current or magnetic fields. They
are a high-density storage medium offering rapid search response time in respect to
the size of the databases. CD-ROM is ideal to mail from a central reference service
for frequent extended use; it does not take up much space, is fast to access and
provides similar sophisticated access paths to those obtained most presently with
computer-database and online searching using remote hosts (Adesanya, 2002).
Oduwole (2000) notes that the advent of CD-ROM technology in the early 1980s has
been a tremendous blessing to the libraries and information centers in developing
countries. The introduction of CD-ROM has made a great impression on users who
are able to search data spanning many years at their own convenience and with
minimal charge. CD-ROM has increased substantially the use of journal collections
and enhanced their image.
Other Sources of Information
To build a stable business farmers regularly need information on a wide range of
subjects. They need long and short term weather reports to choose the best time to
plant and harvest. They need current information on the spread of pests and diseases
54
that might threaten their crops. They need to get the latest tips and advice to make the
most of their available land. They also need market data to find the right buyers at
exactly the right time. Farmers do not want to all the information; they only want
what is relevant to their specific needs.
Much of this information is gathered from different sources but the farmer only has to
deal with one point of delivery. From the literature reviewed, most vegetable farmers
depend on the radio as the main source of accessing information. The radio being the
cheapest and is a popular method of communicating and distributing agricultural
information. The radio is cheap to maintain and reaches wide geographical locations.
The other source of accessing information is through extension officers who
disseminate to small – scale farmers during demonstrations and field days. Personal
visits by the farmers to agricultural offices are yet another source. Other sources
include printed materials such as books, periodicals, agriculture libraries and
documentation centres; agricultural research centres e.g. KARI KEPHIS, Kenya seed
etc, audio – visual sources, universities, market boards, posters in agricultural offices,
baraza‟s and such like.
Similarly, agricultural information is disseminated to small – scale vegetable farmers
through direct and indirect communication sources.
However, the entry of ICT and mobile phones industry has changed the scenario.
Farmers access agricultural information on their mobile phones services such as SMS
(Short Messaging Service).
55
This is done in collaboration with radio stations and research centres e.g. Kenya seed.
Internet is another source of accessing information on agriculture. Though this is not
widespread, ICT infrastructure enables access to websites, blogs and social networks
on the internet and farmers can share information.
Modern mobile phones have internet connections and farmers can browse
agricultural information.
2.5 Factors that Hinder Dissemination of information to small – scale vegetable farmers
There are various factors that hinder dissemination of agricultural information to
vegetable farmers of Wareng district such as:
Extension officers are few and the farming community has a high population
level. Hence, extension officers cannot match the number of farmers and
disseminate information effectively.
There is lack of resources and facilitation from the ministry of agriculture in
terms of finances and transport.
Poor infrastructure i.e. road networks, telecommunication, ICT which plague
the country hinders dissemination of information.
Literacy levels of farmers another impediment in dissemination of agricultural
information. Most farmers are illiterate and require a translator to access
information during field days and demonstrations.
When accessing information via SMS, which is proving to be a very useful and cost
effective method of providing market information and crop data, it also requires that
users have some level of literacy, and sometimes knowledge of a language that is not
their mother tongue. Complex and detailed crop production methods or pest control
56
procedures for example cannot be explained in the short space available in a typical
SMS message. More detailed information has to be delivered in other ways such as
the radio.
Rural areas in Kenya are often poorly served by communication networks of
any kind, ICT Update (2008). Phone coverage whether mobile or landline is
often patchy, if it exists at all. Television and even radio reception fades over
long distances if there are too few transmitters to carry the signal. Connections
to the internet are rare and practically non-existent. The main reason for this
poor coverage is lack of investment by telecommunication companies and
even the government. This in turn makes it difficult for small-scale farmers
who live in the rural to access agricultural information on time and hence
develop economically.
Kenya‟s farmers‟ organizations or cooperation associations have failed to
support farmers. The umbrella associations such as Kenya Farmers
Association, Kenya National Farmers Union, HCDA (Horticultural Crop
Development Authority). These organizations charged with disseminating
information to small scale farmers on the quality standards of the crop
essential for international market. These organization have been grounded
hence cannot be effective in giving farmers the required services. These
organizations need to participate in giving extension services and to coordinate
efforts in extensions so as to harmonize through an umbrella consisting of
government and NGO extension system.
These organizations play an important role in information dissemination by
facilitating and conducting farm visits, educational tours and training forums. They
can also help in financing information dissemination activities by providing
57
communication equipment and giving loans to farmers to develop agricultural
activities, Ngetich (2005).
2.6 Agricultural Information Policy
Thapisa (1997) gives the following recommendations on agricultural information
policy that also applies to our Kenyan case in the provision of information.
An agricultural information policy for the delivery of library and documentation
services should address the following:
An extension service which is an intermediary between the farmers and
researchers should be established to provide feedback (information) to the
scientists concerning the problems, expectations and the motivation of the
farmers. Agricultural research should be client-oriented rather than output-
oriented, emphasis of which is on user-participation research. Research
reports and repackaged information materials for dissemination to the
farmers should be made available for future reference in libraries and
documentation centres.
Information flow should be promoted in such a way that it is not only
“trickling down” from agriculture extension officers to the farmers but also
“trickling across” from farmer to farmer. In other words, multimedia
approaches to information dissemination are required that are based on the
existing agricultural information systems.
An information system should be developed with powerful databases to
monitor and forecast contribution of the agricultural sector, in terms of both
income generation. Such a system should have the capacity to assess the
impact of agricultural production on the environment.
58
Sustainable and specialized activities for the production and dissemination
of agricultural information such as budgets for information activities, CD-
ROM, e-mail, journals, databases, equipment, libraries and information
centres, should be established in the ministry of agriculture and agricultural
research institutions.
The management should train skilled personnel in the areas of information
processing and management, database management, data handling and
presentation, informatics, telecommunications, information marketing,
indexing and abstracting.
2.7 Summary
In conclusion, it should be noted that effective dissemination of agricultural
information to small-scale vegetable farmers largely depends on determination of the
actual information needs of the farming community. In reviewing the literature, it has
been observed that no information user study has been done on vegetable farming and
their information needs.
The existing literature reveals that vegetable farmers of Wareng district prefer using
informal and formal channels of communication as a source of information. The radio
seems to be their favourite channel. Factors that hinder them in accessing agricultural
information include literacy level, distance from information centers, and lack of
finances, poor communication infrastructure and personal commitments.
59
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 Introduction
This chapter describes the research methodology that was used in this study. It
discusses research design, study population, sampling, data collection methods,
reliability and validity, data analysis and ethical considerations.
Research methodology is a systematic procedure used in conducting research. This
chapter presents research methods that the study adopted. In particular, it presents a
detailed description of the selected design, study population, sample procedures and
methods of data collection. The methodology adopted was qualitative with some
aspects of quantitative. Qualitative methodology measures information based on
opinions, attitudes and values as opposed to established data.
On the other hand quantitative research is concerned with the tabulation of numeric
relevance and behaviour of various kinds of variables hence examine phenomenon
through the numerical representation of observation and statistical analysis. That
notwithstanding, the study employed semi-structured interviews to gather data on
issues which needed numerical tabulation. This type of research aimed at discovering
the underlying motives and desires using in depth interviews for the purpose.
3.2 Research Design
The study used mixed methods approach combining qualitative and some aspects of
quantitative approaches. Qualitative researchers are found in many disciplines and
fields using a variety of approaches, methods and techniques.
60
This study mainly used conducted through survey method. It investigated provision of
information to small-scale vegetable farmers in Wareng District, with a view to
establishing challenges and proposing a model for improved access to information.
Such issues are usually best investigated using a survey method which often uses a
sample of selected respondents but generalizes the results to the entire population
being studied.
According to Busha and Harter (1980) survey research is characterized by a selection
of random samples from large and small populations to obtain empirical knowledge of
a contemporary nature. This knowledge allows generalizations to be made about
characteristics, opinions, beliefs and attitudes of the entire population being studied.
Survey is also a technique of gathering information by questioning individuals, who
are the object of the research and who belong to a representative sample, through a
standardized questioning procedure, with the aim of knowing the relationships among
the variables (Corbetta, 2003). The purpose of survey is to generalize from a sample
to a population so that inferences can be made about the characteristics, attitudes or
behaviour of a population. This survey design was deemed most suitable for this study
because it enabled the researcher to undertake a breath of observations and
phenomenon under study. Also the rural farming community selected in this study
was large and therefore collecting data from every vegetable farmer would be time
consuming and not cost-effective.
The survey methods allow researchers to gather information about target populations
without undertaking a complete enumeration. The survey method was used in
studying the following categories of people:
61
Agricultural officers
Agricultural extension officers
Vegetable farmers
Key informants
3.3 Study Area
The study was conducted in Wareng District of the larger Uasin Gishu County. The
new Wareng district is in the Rift Valley Province in the North Rift region. It was
curved out of the larger Uasin Gishu District and has two divisions namely Kapseret
and Kesses.
3.4 Study Population
In this study population was defined in terms of occupation, that is, vegetable
farmers in Wareng district. According to the 2009 Kenya Population and Housing
Census, Wareng district has population of 261,073 in which the rural population is
120,607. Majority of the small scale vegetable farmers are based in the rural areas.
Wareng district having formerly been a division therefore has about 10,000 farm
holdings from the greater Uasin Gishu.
The population of the study comprised small scale vegetable farmers in Wareng
District. The study targeted population of 88 respondents. These comprised 75
vegetable farmers and 13 agricultural officers and extension officers in the district.
3.5 Sampling Design
It is not always possible for a researcher to study an entire population, so one must
draw a sample size from the target population. According to Baily (1994), a sample is
a finite part of a statistical population whose properties are studied to gain information
62
about a whole population. A sample is therefore, a portion of the total population.
Sampling involves selecting some elements of a population, having similar features to
the underlying population, as representative of the total population so as to make
certain observations of these elements and make conclusions regarding the entire
population.
According to Busha (1980) in survey research, a good sample resembles its parent
population; it is also large enough to allow generalizations within measurable limits of
accuracy, to the subject group from which it was selected.
The researcher used simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques to
select the respondents. A piece of paper was used to write down the locations in a
division. Each location was assigned a number written on each piece of paper and
then were folded. In Kesses Division five locations were picked for this study out of
ten. For Kapseret Division two out of the four locations were chosen for the study.
From the identified locations, two were purposively picked from Kesses namely
Kesses and Chuiyat locations and one namely Kapseret from Kapseret location. The
locations chosen were spread across the entire divisions to cover different features.
The sample population in each location used was purposively picked for the study.
The study also used snowball sampling method. This method is also called network,
chain or reputational sampling. The method begins with a few people who meet the
criteria for inclusion into the sample and then gradually increases the sample size as
new contacts are mentioned by the people you started out with. Snowballing
methodology was best suited for the study because one vegetable farmer referred the
researcher to another vegetable farmer and the chain continued to link one vegetable
63
farmer to the next one. This was a simple and cost-effective method that enabled the
researcher to reach populations that seemed inaccessible.
3.5.1 Sample size
Category Location Population Sample Size Percentage
Vegetable
Farmers
Kesses 103 30
30 Chuiyat 105 30 28
Kapseret 92 30 28
Totals 300 90 100
In Wareng district, the respondents were vegetable farmers and agricultural officers
were informants. The vegetable farmers are located along rivers and wetlands or
swamps that cut across the district to access water for their farms.
In each location 30 respondents of vegetable farmers and 15 agricultural officers were
selected for the study. The respondents were spread across the locations identified. A
total of 75 vegetable farmers were interviewed and 13 agricultural and extension
officers were the informants for the study.
3.6 Data collection methods
Data was collected through a variety of methods: questionnaires and semi-structured
interviews as well as secondary sources. The study used the following instruments in
collecting data:-
64
3.6.1 Questionnaires
The study used questionnaires to gather information from agricultural officers who
were based in Wareng district. These were the key informants for the study and their
response formed the primary data for the study.
Questionnaires are commonly used to obtain important information about the
population. Each item in the questionnaire is developed to address a specific objective
and research questions. A questionnaire interview schedule was developed containing
semi-structured questions to gather data from the respondents. These semi- structured
or open ended questionnaires enabled the respondents to determine their own answers
and opinions as they permit a greater depth of response.
3.6.2 Interviews
Face to face interviews was used as the main instrument in collecting data. The data
collection instrument tool was used since the researcher thought it would provide not
only high response rate but also high quality data. The response rate was good. The
interviews explored a respondent‟s point of view, feelings and perspectives. In this
sense, in-depth interviews yield information. Through interviews, one can gather
information that is not available through observation or by reading the literature;
capitalize on people‟s knowledge, skills and expertise, and ascertain opinions,
attitudes, perceptions and facts. The interview method of collecting data involves
presentation of oral-verbal communication. An interview also reveals construction of
reality hence one of the main data collection tools in qualitative research.
65
In qualitative research, interview seeks to describe the meanings of central themes in
life world of subjects. The main task in interviewing is to understand the meaning of
what the interviewees say. A qualitative research interview seeks to cover both a
factual and a meaning level, which was sought in this study. Interviews are
particularly useful for getting the story behind a participant‟s experiences and since
the experiences of vegetable farmers were required, then it was a good way of getting
this vital information. Punch (1998) observes that interviews are one of the leading
ways of assessing respondent‟s perceptions, attitudes, views and definitions.
In essence, in-depth interviews involved not only asking questions, but systematic
recording and documenting of responses coupled with intense probing for deeper
meaning and understanding the responses.
For this study, a semi- structured interview was also used to guide the researcher in
asking the respondents questions. The respondents here were the vegetable farmers.
An interview schedule was developed as data collection tool which had both open
ended and close ended type of questions. The open ended questions enabled the
researcher to probe further on opinions and views of the respondents. Open- ended
questions also give the respondents opportunities to share their thoughts and in the
end give more details of their farming activities and practices.
For the close-ended questions, the respondents were allowed to choose from among
alternatives that were provided.
3.6.3 Documents review (Secondary Sources)
Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) being one of the well established ministries with a
rich history dating back to the colonial era. Documentary evidence is one of the best
66
methods of collecting qualitative data. With this in mind, this technique of data
collection was used to complement other research methods used in this study. The
researcher reviewed the ministry‟s policy documents and its strategic plans to
revitalize agriculture in Kenya in line with Vision 2030.
3.7. Validity
Validity is the accuracy and meaningfulness of inferences which are based on the
research results. Validity is the degree to which results obtained from the analysis of
the data actually represent the phenomenon under study. Validity also refers to the
degree to which study accurately reflects or assesses the specific concept that the
researcher is attempting to measure. While reliability is concerned with the accuracy
of the actual measuring instrument or procedure, validity is concerned with the
study‟s successes at measuring what the researchers set out to measure. Validity was
enhanced by the use of simple understandable language. Validity of the questionnaires
were determined by use of experts and research supervisors.
3.8 Reliability
Reliability is the measure of the degree to which a researcher‟s instruments yields
consistent results or data after repeated trials. Busha and Harter (1980) observes that
reliability in research studies implies the stability, consistency and dependability of
research methods and instruments used, data collected and results obtained after
analysis. The questionnaires were open-ended and this facilitated the respondents to
have an opportunity to give an insight to the research study.
67
Reliability is the extent to which an experiment, test, or any measuring procedure
yields the same results on repeated trials. Without the agreement of independent
observers able to replicate research procedures, or the ability to use research tools and
procedures that yield consistent measurements, researchers would be unable to
satisfactorily draw conclusions, formulate theories, or make claims about the
generalizability of their research.
In order to check reliability and validity of the research instruments, the researcher
pre-tested the interview schedule in order to check for vocabulary, language level and
how well the questions were understood, Mugenda and Mugenda (2003).
Also the researcher refrained from asking leading questions or giving suggestions or
disagreeing with answers given by the respondents. Another method employed was to
ensure the respondents of the confidentiality of the answers given to the researcher.
There was total privacy during the interview sessions by not allowing observers or
listeners. Guba and Lincoln (1981) observe that this enhances confidentiality to the
respondents and also creates a suitable atmosphere for the generation of valid and
reliable data.
3.8.1 Data Collection Procedures
The process of conducting this research entails formulation and defense of the
proposals at the School of Information Science. In conformity with research
procedures in Kenya, the researcher obtained a research permit from the Office of the
President to facilitate data collection in the field. The researcher introduced herself to
the Ministry of Agriculture officials in Wareng district and explained the nature of the
study, its purpose and value to their responses.
68
3.8.2 Data Analysis
This section dealt with organization, presentation and analysis of data collected. Since
most of the data collected were of qualitative nature, qualitative data analysis was
heavily applied. However, since there were some quantitative data being sought in the
research, some quantitative analysis was done.
After the data was collected, it was analyzed based on the objectives and research
questions of the study. The analyses data were presented in tables, descriptions of
percentages where applicable.
Lewins et al (2005) points out that Qualitative Data Analysis (QDA) is the range of
processes and procedures whereby we move into some form of explanation,
understanding or interpretation of the people and situations we are investigated. The
idea behind this was to examine the meaningful and symbolic content of qualitative
data. During QDA, the process usually involves two things, writing and the
identification of themes (coding) which was aptly applied in this research.
3.8.3 Writing
Writing involves presenting the data obtained and analyzed taking into consideration
the following factors:
a) Information provision
b) Information needs of users
c) Information sources
d) Literacy levels
e) Information services
69
3.8.4 Coding into themes
Looking for themes involve labels on themes coding. This is the identification of
passages of texts (or other meaningful phenomena) and applying labels on them that
indicate they are examples of some thematic idea. At its simplest, this labeling or
coding process enabled the researcher to quickly retrieve and collect together all the
text and other data that was associated with some thematic idea so that they can be
examined together and different cases can be compared in that respect.
The researcher then evaluated the usefulness of this information against the objectives
of the study and research questions. This was followed in this research as much as it
was practically possible.
3.8.5 Ethical issues
The researcher adhered to the regulations and guidelines prescribed by Moi
University for preparation of theses and dissertation. Apart from those related to
content and organization of overall requirements, relevant regulations include those
set by Moi University Information Policy, which concerns itself with the maintenance
of ethical standards and protection of human research projects.
In this regard, the researcher weighed the sensitivity of the topic in designing the
interview schedule and determined what was permissible. The respondents were told
about the purpose of the study, the conditions under which data would be published
and how the anonymity of the respondents would be preferred and also how the
confidentiality of the final dataset will be safeguarded.
70
All participants of the study were assured that the information they would give
would be held in private and would be used for academic purposes only. This
assurance would enhance confidentiality and protect the respondents from any
embarrassment or inconveniences. The study was also guided by the principle of
informed consent. This provided that the persons who were invited to participate in
research were free to choose whether to participate or not.
Summary
The foregoing chapter described the research methodology approach used and
justification for its adoption. The data collection techniques that were used to collect
data enabled the researcher to collect data which helped achieve the aim of the study.
Tools used to collect data were found to be appropriate in enabling extensive and
intensive data about each of the farmers to be collected. The chapter also discussed
Qualitative Data Analysis (QDA) method as described Lewins et al (2005) and which
is recommended for such kind of research. Qualitative data was analyzed and
presented in the form of tables, figures, texts and percentages.
71
CHAPTER FOUR
DATA PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION
4.1 Introduction
This chapter presents the data collected in the study. It analyses and interprets the
data collected using the techniques described in chapter three.
The study investigated provision of information services to small scale vegetable
farmers of Wareng District of Uasin Gishu County. The data is presented in form of
text, tables, figures and percentages. The data was collected through face to face
interviews and questionnaires which were presented to the respondents.
4.2. Response rate
The researcher interviewed 75 vegetable farmers who were the main respondents. The
seventy-five (75) active vegetable farmers using a semi-structured interview schedule.
They came from the following locations: Kesses, Chuiyat, and Kapseret.
Others interviewed were thirteen (13) agricultural officers representing various fields
such as horticulture, home economics, monitoring and evaluation, district
environment, and agricultural extension officers. These were interviewed
questionnaires.
The researcher read governments strategies to revitalize agriculture as the basis of
ensuring provision of agricultural information services. According to the Ministry of
Agriculture‟s Strategic Plan of 2008-2012 the following objectives were set out for
implementation:
72
Create enabling environment for agricultural development. This is a key
responsibility of the Ministry to develop policies and propose legislations that will
provide the right environment for the sector to thrive. Developing appropriate
policy framework will promote a competitive agricultural sector and development
of diversified products and market outlets.
Increase agricultural productivity and outputs. Land is the basic factor of
production and increasing productivity is the basic requirement for not only
agricultural growth but also farming as a business. It is well known that
requirements for agricultural productivity are: good choice of land, application of
the right crop varieties, application of the right crop husbandry (planting, weeding,
fertilizer, pest and disease control) and reduction of post-harvest losses or bad
storage. These requirements are provided by a competent, efficient agricultural
extension system, with a backup and support of highly and contemporary research
system.
Promote market access and product development. Market access is critical to the
development of agriculture. The ministry is to provide market information by
collating, processing and disseminating information on the domestic market to
producers, exporters and service providers.
Enhance accessibility to affordable inputs and credit. Access to inputs and credit
are key to increasing agricultural productivity and farming as a business. It is
therefore imperative that there is appropriate credit packages that are suitable for
small scale farmers to enable them access key inputs such as fertilizer,
agrochemicals, seeds, capital investment such as irrigation infrastructure, value
addition technologies, compliance with food safety regulations and general farm
development.
73
Promote sustainable land use and environmental conservation. The ministry
undertakes to promote soil and water management, agro forestry farming systems,
mechanization and exploit the untapped agricultural potential areas.
The above mentioned strategies outlined are to be implemented by agricultural
officers based at the local level in all districts in Kenya. The provision of information
to small scale vegetable farmers in Wareng district is no exception to the
aforementioned strategies. Agricultural extension officers who are mandated to
disseminate information were the respondents that the researcher sought information
from. The information gathered by the researcher includes their positions in service,
educational and professional training, their technical training their duties and
responsibilities. The above mentioned strategies outlined are to be implemented by
agricultural officers based at the local level in all districts in Kenya. The provision of
information to small scale vegetable farmers in Wareng district is no exception to the
aforementioned strategies. Agricultural extension officers who are mandated to
disseminate information were the respondents that the researcher sought information
from. The information gathered by the researcher includes their positions in service,
educational and professional training, their technical training their duties and
responsibilities etc.
The provision of information to vegetable farmers in Wareng district largely depends
on these variables because quality dissemination of information should be done by
well trained and qualified personnel. Below is a summary of small-scale vegetable
farmers‟ day to day activities such as forms of farming, how they irrigate their farms
and the sources of water, the fertilizers that they use, markets for their produce,
communication, challenges that they face in accessing information among others.
74
4.2.1 Characteristics of the vegetable farmers
Small-scale vegetable farmers in Wareng district who participated in the study were
drawn from these locations: Kesses (26) Chuiyat (24) and Kapseret (25). All these
respondents actively practiced vegetables farming for subsistence and commercial
use.
Table 1 Location of the study
Location Frequency Percent
Kapseret 25 33.3
Chuiyat 24 32.0
Kesses 26 34.7
Total 75 100.0
Diagram 1: Location of the Study
30%
29%
41%
Location of the study
Kapseret
Chuiyat
Kesses
75
4.2.2 Characteristics of the Key Informants / Agricultural officers
The information gathered showed that the personnel in the Wareng district are well
trained in their respective fields. One officer (7.7%) has a Masters degree. Six
(46.2%) have first degrees, while 3 (23.1%) are diploma holders and another 3
(23.1%) are certificate holders.
The above educational qualifications indicate that Wareng district has fairly well
educated extension personnel. Their qualifications should enable them to search,
retrieve, repackage and synthesize the relevant information to vegetable farmers in an
effective way.
As observed above agricultural officers in Wareng district are technically well trained
to handle vegetable farmers‟ information needs. Adoption of new agricultural
technologies especially use of irrigation and drainage development equipment on
farms is carried out by the technical personnel from these officers of Agriculture.
4.2.3 Profile of the organizations that the Key Informants work for
Agricultural officers in Wareng district have duties and responsibilities such as
extension services, development projects, National Agricultural Livestock Extension
Programme (NALEP), provision of technical information, consultancy services, farm
visits, educational services such as field days, organize barazas, organize ASK shows,
linkage, between farmers and information sources, workshops, and demonstrations .
These duties overlap and the agricultural officers may be engaged in most of them.
Ten (77%) agricultural officers were carrying out extension services. Two (15%)
specialized in horticulture while 1 (7% ) provides technical information.
76
As noted above the duties and responsibilities of the officers indicate that every sector
is well catered for in terms of information dissemination. This is evident in the
activities which are targeting agricultural information to farmers such as extension
services.
The focus is on poverty reduction measures and empowerment of small-scale farmers
(vegetable farmers). The activities are also aimed at strengthening the capacity of
extension staff in meeting farmers‟ information needs.
Diagram 2: Duties and Responsibilities of Agricultural Officers
4.3. Role of the Ministry of Agriculture
The role of the Ministry of Agriculture in Wareng district is to coordinate all the
activities pertaining to farming and also provide extension and technical services to
vegetable farmers, to enhance food security, to ensure compliance with quality
77%
15% 8%
Duties and responsibilities of Agricultural officers
Agricultural extension services Development of horticultural crops
Provide technical information
77
standards of farm produce to alleviate poverty and to promote agri-business,
sustainable utilization of natural resources, and agro-industrial development.
Table 2: Role of Ministry of Agriculture (MOA)
Role of MOA Frequency Percent
Provide extension services 3 23.1
Enhance food security 2 15.4
Ensure compliance to set up quality of farm
produce
1 7.7
Food security and poverty reduction 3 23.1
Service delivery to farmers 4 30.8
Total 13 100.0
4.3.1 Services provided by the Agricultural Officers to the farming
community
The type of information provided to the farmers in Wareng district includes project
monitoring and evaluation (1) 7%, crop husbandry (5) 38%, diversification in
production (2) 15%, value addition (1) 7% soil and water conservation (1) 7% crop
pest and disease management (1) 7% technical and fertilizer information (2)15%.
78
Table 3: Types of agricultural information
Agricultural Information Frequency Percent
Project monitoring and evaluation 1 7.7
Crop husbandry 5 38.5
Diversify in production 2 15.4
Value addition 1 7.7
Soil conservation 1 7.7
Pest and disease management 1 7.7
Technical packages 2 15.4
Total 13 100.0
4.4 Information needs of small-scale vegetable farmers in Wareng District
4.4.1 Forms of farming in Wareng District
In Wareng district farmers are involved in mixed farming whereby they cultivate cash
crops such as maize, wheat, keep livestock, as well as horticulture and vegetables.
The respondents that were contacted for this research were vegetable farmers only
who represented 90% of them(86).
The vegetables farmers in Wareng district need infrmation on better farming on better
farming methods, improved farm implements, improved variety of seeds and seeking
loans for farm resources. Information on the production of vegetables would include
land preparation, acquiring quality seeds, transplanting, planting, irrigation, weeding
and application of fertilizers and use of pesticides
79
Table 4: Forms of farming
Forms of farming Frequency Percent
Horticulture 68 90.7
Mixed Farming 6 8.0
Total 74 98.7
System 1 1.3
Total 75 100.0
Diagram 3: Forms of farming
4.4.2 Forms of irrigation
The vegetable farmers in Wareng district carry out irrigation on their farms. The
source of water for irrigation were stream and river water (52%), well water (24%),
and use of Borehole water (19%). The vegetable farmers live along streams and
rivers, swamps or wetlands where they have access to water for their crops.
Frequency, 1 0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
Horticulture Mixed Farming Total System
R e
sp o
n d
e n
ts
Forms of farming
80
The forms of irrigation carried out by the farmers are furrow irrigation whereby
canals are dug to allow stream water to flow to the farms freely. The use of watering
cans is also another commonly used form of irrigation whereby farmers fetch water
from wells and boreholes to irrigate their vegetables.
Another popular form is the use of money maker machines and sprinklers. This is a
mechanical tool where farmers peddle and draw water from streams. They then use
hose pipes and sprinklers to water their vegetables throughout the year.
The frequencies and percentages on the forms of irrigation range from furrow (8)
10%, watering can (26) 34% money makers (24) 32% sprinklers (16) 21%. The most
popular forms of irrigation among vegetable farmers in Wareng district are use of
watering cans and money maker machines. The Table 5 illustrates the forms and types
of irrigation activities that vegetable farmers undertake.
Table 5: Need for forms of Irrigation
Forms of Irrigation Frequency Percent
Furrow 8 10.7
Watering can 26 34.7
Money maker 24 32.0
Sprinklers 16 21.3
Total 74 98.7
System 1 1.3
Total 75 100.0
81
Diagram 4: Needs for forms of Irrigation
Wareng district is endowed with rivers and streams that run through the district.
Though some of these rivers are seasonal, constructed dams such as Kesses dam
facilitate retention of water in the reservoirs where farmers use to irrigate their farms.
These farmers have also dug wells and boreholes in their farms to supplement
rainwater. These farmers also harvest rain water using plastic tanks and constructed
water tanks which the use to irrigate vegetables during the dry season.
4.4.3 Information needs on the use of fertilizers and pest control
Vegetable farmers apply fertilizers to their corps to yield quality harvest. Fertilizers
applied range from compost manure to conventional or manufactured fertilizers
purchased from shops. Majority of them apply DAP (38) representing 50%. Others
use foliar feed and SSP (8) representing 10%, CAN 13 representing 17%. Vegetable
farmers also apply pesticides to their crops to prevent diseases which could wipe out
their pesticides usage by 15 farmers represents 20%.
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
Furrow Watering can
Money maker
Sprinklers Total System
R e
sp o
n d
e n
ts
Need for forms of Irrigation
82
Vegetable farmers in this district use various types of fertilizers and pesticides the
most common being DAP. The fertilizer is used when planting and also when top-
dressing the vegetables for higher yields. Others use compost manure from animal
droppings and foliar feeds.
Table 6: Use of Fertilizer and pest control
Types of fertilizer Frequency Percent
DAP 38 50.7
Foliar feed 2 2.7
SSP 6 8.0
CAN 13 17.3
Pesticides 15 20.0
Total 74 98.7
Total 75 100.00
4.4.4 Market outlets for vegetables
The growth of vegetables in Wareng district is mainly for local consumption and also
sales to urban areas. The farmers usually sell the vegetables to traders who then
transport them to urban areas such as Eldoret. Majority of the farmers sell their
vegetables to the local communities around them and to traders in local centres. The
sale is usually done on the farms where vegetable vendors go to the farms to purchase
directly from the farmers.
83
Table 7: Market outlets
Markets Frequency Percent
Local 69 92.0
Urban 8.0 8.0
Total 75 100.0
Diagram 5: Market Outlets
4.4.5 Sources of funding vegetable farming
Vegetable farmers in Wareng district use their own income to start farming. Some of
them use their savings from other proceeds, while others acquire loans from Micro-
finance institution to facilitate vegetable farming.
Most of them 62 (82%) use own income to start vegetable farming. 4 (5%) use their
savings while 9 (12%) seek loans from banks. Table 8 below provides information on
funding that vegetable farmer‟s use.
90%
10%
Market outlets
Local Urban
84
Table 8: Sources of funding
Source Frequency Percent
Own income 62 82.7
Savings 4 5.3
Loans 9 12.0
Total 75 100.0
Diagram 6: Sources of Funding
4.4.6 Information needs on the quality of seeds
Vegetable farmers require information on the available seed varieties. Agricultural
extension officers need to address this need for quality seeds and resistance to
pesticide attack.
4.4.7 Information need on ways of communication
Vegetable farmers communicate with agricultural officers in barazas forums, farmers‟
trainings on field days, seminars and workshops, farm visitations and occasionally
83%
5% 12%
Sources of funding
Owning income Savings Loans
85
through the media such as radio programmes. A number of them also hardly
communicate citing long distances between agricultural offices and their villages.
4.5 Sources of information available to and used by the small-scale vegetable
farmers
4.5.1 Information resources and services used by farmers and agricultural
officers
Agricultural officers in Wareng district use information resources from libraries (3)
23%, the Internet (2) 14%, and research institutions (4) 30%. Out of these (5) 38%
consult reports from workshops, agricultural journals, field day reports, and other
agricultural project reports from NALEP (National Agricultural and Livestock
Extension Programme), ASK Shows and information centres.
Libraries and information centres can serve as good sources of information for
vegetable farmers for improving agricultural technology. However, this is not the case
in Wareng district since libraries and information centres are far from the potential
users. This category of information users has been disadvantaged in that information
units and libraries are often located in the urban centres hence has resulted in
dichotomies in society of information rich and information poor. Most of the
agricultural officers rely on documents and reports from agricultural research
institutions. Other publications that they consult come from various workshops,
seminars and trainings that The Ministry of agriculture conduct. A number of the do
consult the internet
86
4.5.2 The frequency in which vegetable farmers contact Agricultural Officers for
information
Farming gave rise to need for information. The information needs of vegetable
farmers are best demonstrated by the frequency in which the farmers consult the
agricultural officers. The majority of the farmers consult the nearest sources such as
friends, relatives, neighbours and role models.
In Wareng district, vegetable farmers do contact agricultural officers for information
on dail (5 (38%), weekly 3 (23%), monthly 1 (7%) and on demand driven instances 4
(30%). The agricultural officers obtain agricultural information given to the vegetable
farmers from research findings, technical handbooks, workshops and training,
seminars reports and publications such as newsletters and circulars.
Table 9: Information Resources services
Information Resources Frequency Percent
Library 3 23.1
Internet 1 7.7
Research Institutions 2 15.4
Workshops 2 15.4
None 5 38.8
Total 13 100.0
87
Diagram 7: Information Resources
Libraries and information centres can serve as good sources of information for
vegetable farmers for improving agricultural technology. However this is not the case
in Wareng district since libraries and information centres are far from the potential
users. Most of the agricultural officers rely on documents from the research
institutions under the Ministry of Agriculture and also from workshops and seminars.
A number of them also use consult the internet.
4.6. Types of agricultural information provided to farmers
Agricultural officers in Wareng district mainly provide educational, training and
extension services that promote crop production to the farming community. Technical
service would include irrigation and drainage technologies, soil and water
conservation, efficient land use and crop disease surveillance to the farming
community.
Library, 3
Internet, 1
Research Institutions, 2Workshops, 2
None, 5
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
Information resources
R e
sp o
n d
e n
ts
Information Resources
88
Other services include information on weather forecasting, soil composition, quality
seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, markets, harvesting and storing. The clients for the
ministry are small-scale vegetable farmers, large scale farmers, youth groups, women
groups, Non-Governmental Organizations and Community Based Organizations
among others.
4.7 Communication channels through which agricultural information is
disseminated
4.7.1 Communication channels through which Agricultural Officers disseminate
information to small-scale vegetable farmers
Agricultural officers in Wareng district disseminate agricultural information to
vegetable farmers through various means such as farm visits, barazas or open day
activities, field day demonstrations, common interest groups, and agricultural shows.
Individual farmers also make visits to agricultural offices nearer to their home and
make inquiries.
Diagram 8: Information Dissemination
31%
46%
15% 8%
Information dissemination
Research findings
Technical handbooks
Workshops and trainings
Seminars
89
4.7.2 Channels through which farmers communicate with the Agricultural
Officers
Farmers receive agricultural information from various media channels. Most of them
54 (72%) listen to the radio programmes especially Kass FM and KBC which
regularly air programmes that target farmers. 4 (5%) read from printed journals and
magazines. 14 (18%) receive information from field days and farm visitations. Others
share information amongst themselves i.e. fellow vegetable farmers.
Table 10: Channels of communication
Channel Frequency Percentage
Media 54 72.0
Printed press 4 5.3
None 3 4.0
Field days 14 18.7
Total 75 100.0
Diagram 9: Channels of Communication
72%
5%
4%
19%
Channel of Communication
Media
Printed press
None
Field days
90
4.7.3 Communication channels through which farmers received agricultural
information
Farmers receive agricultural information from various media channels. Most of them
54 representing (72%) listen to the radio programmes especially Kass FM and KBC
who regularly air programmes that target farmers. 4 (5%) read from printed journals
and magazines. 14 (18%) receive information from field days and farm visitations.
Others share information amongst themselves i.e. fellow vegetable farmers.
4.7.4 Farmers’ preferred channels for receiving agricultural information
Most vegetable farmers in Wareng district use the radio as the preferred channel of
communication. 43 (57%) listen to radio programmers that broadcast agricultural
information especially Kass FM and KBC broadcasts 6 (8%) use television broadcasts
also KBC and Citizen TV. 17 (22%) read newspapers and magazines while 9 (12%)
use oral information from fellow vegetable farmers. Channels of media preferred.
Table 11: Preferred Channels of communication
Channels Frequency Percent
Radio 43 57.3
Television 6 8.0
Newspapers 3 4.0
Magazines 14 18.7
Total 66 88.0
System 9 12.0
Total 75 100.0
91
4.7.5 Educational levels of the Agricultural Officers’ clients
According to agricultural officer most of vegetable farmers in Wareng district are
literate varying from primary school levers to secondary level leavers. They are well
versed in reading and writing in English Kiswahili and local languages, Nandi.
Most of the farmers in Wareng district attended primary and secondary schools. A
good number of them having dropped out of primary level and a few proceeded to
secondary school. Accordingly, the level of education for those who have attained
primary education are 42 (56%), while 33 (44%) have attained secondary education.
Generally it can be said that most vegetable farmers are literate.
The vegetable farmers can access information due to literacy. Although most of them
are semi-illiterate, it is hard for them to access and are ignorant of agricultural
information sources and systems.
4.7.6 Formats of presentation of agricultural information
Format of presentation in the dissemination of agricultural information is carried out
by use of verbal communication, especially during field days, demonstrations and
training. This is aided by the use of posters, demonstrations, pamphlets, brochures and
other printed materials. Another medium of communication that is evident is through
radio programmes using local languages such as Kass Fm, Chamgei Fm stations,
Radio Citizen and KBC.
92
Diagram 10: Forms of Presentation
4.7.7 Language used to disseminate agricultural information
Agricultural officers disseminate agricultural information to vegetable farmers of
Wareng district using Kiswahili, English and local languages such as Nandi. The most
common medium used is Kiswahili which everyone understands.
4.8. Factors that hinder accessibility and dissemination of agricultural
information by small-scale vegetable farmers in Wareng District
4.8.1 Problems faced by farmers in searching and accessing agricultural
information
Challenges facing vegetable farmers in accessing agricultural information include
transport costs while traveling from their homes to agricultural offices which are
located far from them. Another major challenge is the inaccessibility of the
information vegetable farmers cited cases where the agricultural officers are not
accessible to them whenever they visit. The other challenge is the long distances
between officers and farmers.
Frequency, 1
0 0.5
1 1.5
2 2.5
3 3.5
4 4.5
re sp
o d
e n
ts Forms of presentation
93
For instance Kesses location is very wide in Km 2 thus farmers live far from these
officers. Kapseret agricultural divisional officers are located in town whereas the
farmers live in rural areas. Chuiyat location farmers can be contacted at Kesses
divisional headquarters thus the distance is enormous.
Another challenge is the poor roads infrastructure where roads are impassable during
wet seasons when information on agriculture in highly demanded. Limited literacy is
another challenge that farmers face in accessing agricultural information for those
who cannot read or write.
Table 12: Challenges in Information dissemination faced by farmers
Challenges Frequency Percent
Transport cost 4 5.3
Illiteracy 10 13.3
Inaccessibility of the information 38 52.8
Long distance 12 16.0
Poor infrastructure 8 10.7
Total 72 96.0
System 3 4.0
Total 75 100.0
4.8.2 Effects of farmers’ inaccessibility to agricultural information
Vegetable farmers in Wareng district expressed low/poor yield from their farms when
they do not access timely agricultural information. The quality of vegetable also will
be low if information pertaining to growth, management fertilizers, pesticides, market
94
etc is not given to the farmer on time. Vegetables are delicate and failure to
disseminate timely information leads to losses which the farmers cannot incur.
Table 13: Effects of not accessing agricultural information
Results of Effects Frequency Percent
Low yield 42 56.0
Poor quality 32 42.7
Total 74 98.7
System 1 1.3
Total 75 100.0
4.8.3. Challenges faced by agricultural officers in disseminating information to
farmers
Agricultural officers encounter certain problems in disseminating of information to
vegetable farmers. Majority of them only understand Kiswahili and local languages
but cannot read or write; thus illiteracy and ignorance of new farming methods and
how to obtain quality seeds. The poor turn up of farmers during demonstrations and
field days leaves them out on new information that is being disseminated.
The officers often lack demonstration and teaching materials in disseminating
information. Additionally, there is lack of transport to reach farmers in various parts
of the entire district. The division has only one vehicles (an old one) in which
agricultural officers are assigned. A number of motor cycles have mechanical
problems which the ministry has not repaired.
95
Another problem is agricultural officers were few compared to the geographic
distance that they cover during farm visits. Each location has an average of 10,000
farmers and the officers are about 5 in every location. This means that dissemination
of timely information cannot be achieved with a widely distributed population of
vegetable farmers.
As suggested by the respondents the vegetable farmers in Wareng district prefer use
of electronic media or mass media such as radio to air agricultural information to
them. The programmes that are broadcasted to them in their local languages have
proved to be more efficient than actual visitations by agricultural officers. They also
suggested a demand-driven extension services to be adopted by the agricultural
officers. There is need to provide interpreters during field days and demonstrations to
enable farmers to understand the information.
Additionally information should be repackaged in local languages and Kiswahili for
easy understanding. There is need to create awareness about the benefits of vegetable
farming as opposed to cultivation of other crops. The economic value of vegetables
and time it takes before maturity is shorter than growth of maize or wheat. An
awareness campaign should be mounted by the officers in the district. Also use of
incentives should be promoted to encourage farmers to diversify from the traditional
farming to modern farming or agri-business.
96
Table 14: Challenges in information dissemination
Challenges in information dissemination Frequency Percent
Language barrier 1 7.7
Poor turn up of farmers 3 23.1
High illiteracy levels 1 7.7
Ignorance of farmers 1 7.7
Lack of demonstration and teaching
materials
3 23.1
Few Agricultural extension staff 1 7.7
12 92.3
Total 13 100.0
4.9 Ways of improving the communication and dissemination of agricultural
information to small-scale vegetable farmers in Wareng District
4.9.1 Possible solutions to accessing information
Agricultural officers require capacity building so that they are able to reach farmers
with information. Extension officers should be based in centralized locations so that
farmers can easily access them.
The ministry should decentralize their offices and move them to the rural area. The
Ministry should also equip the officers with heavy duty vehicles to enable mobility of
officers. Regular visitations and field days to be held to encourage growth. Marketing
of the vegetable growth. Marketing of the products for local, urban and even export
should be done.
97
Libraries and information centres to be located in urban and rural centres to allow
farmers to access information whenever they require. The Ministry concerned with
social services to revive district information and documentation centres (DIDC) which
used to function to enhance information dissemination to farmers. Train farmers on
appropriate markets for their vegetables and the use of modern technologies in
agriculture which will spur growth in the farming.
Having discussed the activities of vegetable farmers in Wareng district, the researcher
gathered pertinent information from informants who were the agricultural officers in
the district charged with the responsibility of dissemination information, their job
descriptions followed closely with their duties and responsibilities in line with the
Ministry‟s Strategic Plan.
Table 15: Job designation for Agricultural Officers
Agricultural officers Frequency Percent
Monitoring and evaluation 1 7.7
Horticulture crops officer 3 23.1
Home economics officer 4 30.8
District environmental and land officer 4 30.8
LEO 1 7.7
Total 13 100.0
98
Diagram 11: Job Designation for Agricultural Officers
4.9.2 Suggestions on how to improve dissemination of information to vegetable
farmers
In an attempt to disseminate information to vegetable farmers, education programmes
and meetings should be organized by agricultural officers targeting vegetable farmers.
Information should be adopted on a demand driven basis and officers should be pro-
active in disseminating timely information.
The Ministry should also organize and fund audio-visual shows in the rural areas
through which videos and films on successful vegetable farming using modern
technology is shown. Use of posters and print media should be encouraged since” a
picture tells a thousand words”. In addition, leaflets and pamphlets containing
agricultural information should be in local languages to enable farmers who are semi-
illiterate to access information. Alternatively, provision of interpretation services
should be encouraged. An awareness campaign should be mounted frequently and
regularly to sensitize farmers on new technologies.
0 0.5
1 1.5
2 2.5
3 3.5
4 4.5
Monitoring and evaluation
Horticulture crops officer
Home economics officer
District environmental and land officer
R e
sp o
n d
e n
ts
Job designation for Agricultural Officers
99
Diagram 12: Suggestions to improve Dissemination
4.10 Conclusion
The foregoing chapter analysed, interpreted and presented the data that was collected
in the field. The research findings revealed that indeed vegetable farmers in Wareng
district have information needs that are unique to their day to day activities. The needs
highlighted would help them in managing and solving problems related to vegetable
farming. The study showed that the farmers obtain information from friends, relatives
and neighbours who also grow vegetables. A number of them use electronic devices
such as the radio, television and in the recent past mobile phones ( text messaging
services). Other channels that farmers use to receive information were through print
media and also through field and demonstration days organized by agricultural
extension officers in the district. The study also revealed impediments that hinder
accessibility to agricultural information such as illiteracy among the farming
community, costs incurred, poor information services infrastructural systems among
others. The vegetable farmers made suggestions on how to improve information
dissemination to the farming community in Wareng district.
Frequency, 4
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
Using electronic
media to relay information
Demand driven
extension adopted
Provision of interpretation
services
Use of incentives
Create awareness
R e
sp o
n d
e n
ts
Suggestions to improving dissemination
100
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
5.0 Introduction
This chapter presents the summary of the findings, conclusions and recommendations.
Recommendations and a model have been proposed to facilitate improved access to
information by small-scale vegetable farmers in Wareng district.
The purpose of this study was to examine the provision of information to small-scale
vegetable farmers in Wareng district and to propose a model for improved access to
information by vegetable farmers. The salient findings are summarized according to
the respective research objectives and questions as follows:
5.1.1 Information needs of small-scale vegetable farmers in Wareng district
The study identified information needs of small-scale vegetable farmers as that which
are closely linked with their day to day activities of farming. Farmers need
information to access regular support services that provide identification of unusual
problems that are difficult to diagnose during routine plant health control. Farmers
also require appropriate information to access agricultural inputs such as quality
seeds, fertilizers, pesticides etc.
The study also identified information needs regarding markets and prices for their
produce and also favourable prices in the market. The other information needs
expressed by farmers include that of soils and weather conditions that favour
vegetables farming as well as technologies especially in irrigation practices and
101
better farming methods. Other information needs include access to credit facilities and
loans from SMEs, local banks and cooperative societies.
Farmers also require information on post-harvest and storage of vegetables as well as
transportation facilities including cold temperatures to facilitate freshness for export
produce.
5.1.2 Sources of Information available to small-scale vegetable farmers in
Wareng district
Vegetable farmers in Wareng rely on oral channels of information from neighbours,
friends, relatives and fellow farmers. However, some of them heavily rely on the radio
which broadcasts, especially local FM stations that broadcasts using local languages.
Extension officers play a big role in the dissemination of agricultural information to
farmers. This was evident during field days, barazas, agricultural seminars and
workshops, and trainings which are conducted by extension officers during farm
visits. For the agricultural officers their sources of information are from research
organizations e.g. KARI, Technical handbooks supplied by the government (MOA),
agricultural Journals, workshops, seminars and trainings regularly conducted.
Agricultural officers also consult the worldwide web and agricultural databases in the
internet for information. Agricultural databases from KARI as well as newsletters and
regular reports and networks such as KAINET (Kenya agricultural Information
Networks) are important sources of agricultural information. Other farmers utilize
ICTs such as mobile phone calling and texting.
102
5.1.3 Effectiveness of extension services in the dissemination of information to
vegetable farmers
Findings revealed that extension services are essential used in dissemination of
information through forums such as farm visits, field days, demonstration days,
exhibitions during ASK shows, and personal visits. The frequency in which the
agricultural extension officers and the farmers interact is an indicator of the
effectiveness of extension officers in dissemination of agricultural information.
Additionally, the adoption of new technologies by vegetable farmers especially in
irrigation using the money- maker peddling machine popular with farmers and also
improvement in vegetable yields or output shows that information dissemination is
effective. The study also revealed that vegetable farmers were gaining profits from
their products by striving to meet the growing demand. The findings also showed that
there is an increase in acreage of market vegetables in the district and that the demand
for interactive participation by farmers through media (radio) and visits to agricultural
offices also shows the effectiveness of information dissemination. Findings also show
that there is continued monitoring of farming activities by extension officers
throughout the various stages of farming such as planting (provision of quality seeds),
weeding, top-dressing (provision of fertilizers and pesticides), harvesting, post-
harvesting and selling. These activities carried out by extension service officers
indicate the positive impact and effectiveness in dissemination of information.
5.1.4 Communication channels through which agricultural information is
dissemination
Findings reveal that farmers use oral channels of communication with agricultural
extension officers and amongst themselves. They also use other channels in the media
such as radio, television and print media (journal publications, reports, and
newsletters). Others utilize ICTs such as mobile phones and electronic databases and
103
the internet. It was established that demonstration activities such as field days and
ASK shows are powerful channels of communication and as the saying goes “seeing
is believing”.
5.1.5 Accessibility and usefulness of information channels, sources, services and
systems that provide information to vegetable farmers
The study revealed that the information sources, channels, services and systems were
found to be useful to vegetable farmers, in satisfying their information needs.
However, the media such as the radio and ICTs were accessible to most farmers
though they have to spend money on airtime. Other accessible sources include
agricultural extension officers who disseminate information and demonstrations. The
government through the Ministry of Agriculture should undertake assessment of the
agricultural information needs and resources and make appropriate recommendations.
The study revealed that there has not been an assessment of information needs or
development of an efficient and effective information network system. The study also
found out that there was no subscription to scientific journals for the agricultural
officers and the farmers to be able to access current information. There was need for
creation of current awareness services to sensitize farmers on new information
technologies and innovations. There was also need to compile a directory of
agricultural information services and an evaluation of ongoing information
programmes in the district. This was not going on in Wareng district.
5.1.6 Factors that hinder accessibility to agricultural information by small scale
vegetable farmers in Wareng district
Farmers require information for their day to day activities. However, literacy levels
may hinder them from accessing timely and relevant information which would
increase crop yields. The available printed information sources were available in
104
English or Kiswahili but those farmers who were barely literate could not benefit
from the literature.
Farmers are busy people with little time for themselves. Moreover, whereas good
information comes at a cost, most farmers lacked time to seeking information and
cannot afford the cost of travel from their homes to agricultural offices to seek
information. Thus, distance, time and cost were obstacles farmers face in trying to
obtain information. The long distance between agricultural offices and the farmers in
rural areas is a hindrance in accessing information.
The information infrastructure in the district was found to be an impediment in
accessing agricultural information. Information centres and information resources
were located in urban centres and towns such as Eldoret town where Kenya National
Library Services and District Information and Documentation Centres were based.
The offices of the Ministry of Agricultural were also located in town and divisional
headquarters. Farmers who live and work in the rural areas could not afford travel
expenses in search of information.
5.1.7 Ways and means of improving communication of agricultural
information to small scale vegetable farmers
It was established that information could empower farmers to improve farming
activities. When accessed and used appropriately information can lead to economic
development which will contribute to food security and improved health among
farmers and consumers of vegetables. It was found out that providers of information
and policy makers should take appropriate measures to improve access and use of
information.
105
The many gaps that exist in the provision of information to vegetable farmers were
directly linked to the poor understanding of their needs. The information systems and
services available in Wareng district have been designed without proper analysis of
the needs of users. Meeting the information needs of various categories of farmers
depends much on the help they received from agricultural extension officers based in
the district. There is a need for the government to develop an agricultural information
policy to guide the dissemination of agricultural information to the various categories
of farmers.
To be able to provide information to vegetable farmers, the following needs to be
done:
To educate farmers on the sources of information so as to empower them and
reduce illiteracy and ignorance.
To conduct regular and frequent field days and seminars and to allow
agricultural officers to disseminate information.
To develop methodologies for documenting and disseminating information to
farmers and to improve existing ones.
Information providers such as extension officers should repackage information
in formats suitable to the farming community; for instance using audio and
visual technology in form of videos, tapes, cine films, PowerPoint during
demonstrations among others.
To encourage agricultural extension officers and other government officers to
conduct research on the information needs of the farming community.
106
To establish agricultural information centres in the entire district so as to
collect information needs of farmers. This should be done by setting up help
desks at the market centres especially during market days.
To conduct awareness campaigns through publicity, workshops, and seminars
using the media to sensitize farmers on the importance agricultural
information.
To encourage farmers to visit information centres and to regularly attend
workshops and seminars to be kept abreast with new information and
emerging technologies.
5.2 CONCLUSION
The study set out to examine the provision of information to small scale farmers in
Wareng district and to propose a model for improved access to information. It is
concluded that farmers have information needs in the field of vegetable farming. They
lack relevant and timely information specific to vegetable farming. They also lack
information on appropriate emerging technologies to spur growth of vegetable
farming.
Farmers in Wareng district rely on each other in seeking information hence oral
transfer of information is the most preferred form of communication. However, the
use of mass media and farm visitation by agricultural officers is insignificant because
access is hampered by lack of resources to facilitate access; also the distance that
farmers cover to reach the agricultural offices for information is a hindrance.
107
This also means that the information systems and services are inadequate to satisfy
the information needs of farmers. The agricultural extension officers should use other
channels of communication such as videos, mobile cinemas, films, powerpoint
presentations among others to disseminate information.
Awareness campaigns should be made especially during market days in the district so
as to reach a good number of parents and to encourage them to attend regular
seminars and workshops organized by the Ministry of Agriculture.
The findings also indicated that information centres were situated far from the farmers
hence inaccessible to them. The information resources are based in urban towns and
centres such as Eldoret. The Kenya National Library Services and the District
Information and Documentation Centres were found to be the information resources
where farmers would seek information. Unfortunately, they are based in town and
have no branches elsewhere in the district. Farmers who live in the rural areas have no
access to the service since they cannot afford fare to travel and seek for information.
The information resources were not equipped enough to satisfy the farmers‟
information needs. Public libraries should improve their services to the farming
community in Wareng district. The Ministry of Agriculture should also establish
information centres in the agricultural offices spread in the district.
The findings also concluded that employing the use of ICTs could change the face of
farming in wareng district. ICT services were found to be the fastest and easiest
means of communication given the laid down infrastructure networks. Mobile phone
linked to radio stations disseminates timely information effectively. Farmers need
108
information on the right seeds to plant, weather patterns, harvest and post-harvest
activities, correct use of pesticides, market prices among others.
There is the need fort policy makers and other stakeholders to develop strategies such
as educational programmes in villages and urban centres to sensitize farmers on
appropriate technologies to adopt in vegetable farming. This will enhance
development in the agricultural sector and promote food production.
In conclusion, farmers in Wareng district lack information resource and technology to
assist them increase food productivity. This is also hampered by illiteracy as most of
the printed information resources are written in English or Kiswahili. Research has
demonstrated that information is a basic need that requires timeliness and
appropriateness to the agricultural community. Information requires a deeper
understanding both to the agricultural officers and other stakeholders in order to
accelerate the dissemination of relevant information. In order to enhance the standards
of information provision to vegetable farmers, agricultural officers should invest on
the needs of users and this will bridge the existing information gap. Equipping the
agricultural information workers with adequate skills will help achieve more in
satisfying user needs. They will also be able to offer excellent information services
according to expectations of users. Findings have also shown that where the correct
procedures of identifying the information needs of users were taken into
considerations, the results were positive.
109
5.3 RECOMMENDATIONS
The government of Kenya should formulate agricultural information policy that will
provide for and seek to integrate an information network involving personnel (policy
makers, information specialists, researchers, extension officers etc), hard and
software, data and practices aimed at supporting efficient and effective agricultural
decision making. The government should recognize that information is an essential
input for an effective agricultural system and as such, contributes in a positive way to
agricultural development.
A number of recommendations have been made with a view improving provision of
information services to small-scale vegetable farmers in Wareng district. These are:
5.3.1 Increase of Extension Officers
Wareng district has many vegetable farmers who live in a diverse area compared to
the number of agricultural officers. Additionally, there was only one vehicle in every
division assigned to agricultural department. The vehicles were old and not able to
withstand the bad roads during the wet season hence movement of officers was
limited. The agricultural extension officers are few relative to the population of
vegetable farmers. Therefore, it is recommended that more extension officers should
be posted to the district This will enable frequent interactions between vegetable
farmers and the extension officers.
5.3.2 Proximity of Agricultural Officers
Accessibility and use of agricultural information by small-scale vegetable farmers was
adversely affected by distance the farmers cover to reach agricultural officers‟ offices
for help. The study indicated that the farmers incur relatively significant costs in
110
order to access information. This hinders farmers from accessing the required
information. The Ministry of Agriculture should therefore establish offices closer to
the farmers and extension officers be posted close to them. This will minimize costs
and enhance access to timely information regarding vegetable farming. The findings
also showed that farmers had to walk long distances to the agricultural offices hence
cutting on their time.
5.3.3 Establishment of information centres
This study recommends that the Ministryof Agriculture should establish information
centres and improve on the existing ones. The Kenya National Library Services in
Eldoret town should introduce mobile libraries so that farmers can access agricultural
information without spending money. The collection in the library should be
developed to have a bias towards agriculture. Uasin Gishu is known as the bread
basket of Kenya hence agricultural information should be readily available to farmers
in Wareng district. The findings indicated that the few information systems and
services were located far from farmers.
5.3.4 Linkages with agricultural Research Institutions
There are weak linkages between farmers and agricultural research institutions. It is
therefore recommended that agricultural based research institutions such as KARI,
KEPHIS, and Kenya Seed Company should disseminate their research findings and
new innovations to farmers through regular open field and demonstration days.
Published materials such as handbooks, magazines, journals, booklets, brochures and
leaflets should also be available in the information centres and libraries. This
enhances current awareness services in information provision, and hence provision of
timely information required in vegetable farming. The limited access to information
systems and services within Wareng district hampers awareness of the existence of
111
other agricultural information databases from KARI e.g KAINet. The dissemination
that they seemed to enjoy was the radio programmes broadcasting through the
national and local language stations.
5.3.5 Packaging and Repackaging of Agricultural information
This study indicated that most small-scale farmers are semi-illiterate and would prefer
to be communicated mainly in Kiswahili and vernacular languages. A small number
of them do understand English. In view of this, the study recommends that
information producers should package and repackage information in these popular
languages both in print and electronic formats. Extension officers should also use the
languages or use translators to disseminate information to farmers.
5.3.6 Facilitation of Agricultural Extension Officers
It is recommended that the Ministry of Agriculture should provide the officers with
good vehicles and motorbikes to enable them visit farmers during all the times. The
vehicles that were grounded should be repaired so that extension officers can reach
farmers in good time. The study found that extension officers lack efficient transport
systems to enable them visit the farmers.
5.3.7 Use of ICT in Disseminating Information
ICT infrastructure in Wareng district is wanting. Farmers did not use ICT due to the
absence of digital village connectivity where relevant information on vegetable
farming is provided. This calls the Ministry of Agriculture and other policy makers to
invest in ICT services so that agricultural information is quickly disseminated to
farmers. There is need to encourage farmers and extension officers to use ICTs in
promoting agricultural information. Such information can promote local
112
entrepreneurship among farmers who connect to international markets for their
vegetables. Vegetable farmers can also connect to financial services such as loans
from SMEs and banks though ATMs.
Information disseminators should also utilize ICTs through E-mail and SMS (short
text messages), CD-ROMs, fax, and also printed materials. The radio is also a
powerful ICT tool which when connected to mobile telephone services can be used to
air agricultural programmes and also interactive conversation with experts in farming.
The provision of information services to vegetable farmers in Wareng district could
be achieved through a series of activities such as:
Provide physical locations for agricultural libraries
Upgrade and modernize existing libraries and information centres
Budget for libraries and information centres
Acquire improved technology for the efficient and effective management of
information
Make information available and accessible to end-users
Enhance the capacity for producing, capturing, processing and disseminating
information
Encourage the use of information as a factor in development
Capture both indigenous knowledge and grey literature in the national
databases.
Repackage information in forms most appropriate to the needs of different
groups of end-users
113
5.4 Proposed Model for Provision of Information to Vegetable Farmers in Wareng District
Given the various challenges that have been identified in the provision of information
to vegetable farmers in Wareng district, the following model if adopted would
enhance efficient and effective flow of information to the user community. The
suggested model has the following components:
5.4.1 Identification of Information needs
Song (2009) says proactive information services require careful examination of
current user needs, new technologies and innovations and the direction for the future.
Agricultural information officers should know the needs of the various farmers in the
district and seek to identify their needs bearing in mind the emerging technologies in
farming.
Proactive partners (MOA),
Research institutions e.g. KARI,
KEPHIS, Kenya Seed
Proactive agricultural
information providers
– training, needs, adoption of new
technologies, market
services, financial
services.
Identification of
information needs by the
agricultural information
and extension officers.
A satisfied user (vegetable
farmer)
114
5.4.2 Proactive partner
The Ministry of Agriculture and its partner research institutions such as KARI,
KEPHIS, and Kenya Seed etc. should disseminate information to vegetable farmers
proactively. Research findings that have been undertaken should be communicated to
the farmers through the normal channels of communication. Agricultural information
centres spread around the country then collate, repackage and disseminate information
to the farmers. Information systems and services should be developed in Wareng
district to facilitate dissemination of agricultural information.
5.4.3 Proactive Agricultural Information Services
These are the providers of agricultural information. They should be proactive in
dissemination of information and seek the needs of users. The officers should also
market their services in emerging fields such as new technologies, new seed varieties,
new trends in farming etc. The officers should be conversant with the internet as an
information resource that they consult. Information resource databases such as
KAInet, AGORA, AGRIS and others are rich resources that carry information on
agriculture. Research institutions also upload information for easy access.
5.4.4 Selection and use of Information
The end result of having proactive partners and proactive agricultural information
officers is a satisfied vegetable farmer. When farmers receive timely and accurate
information about their daily farming activities will result in high yields and hence
economic stability and prosperity.
115
5.5 Suggestions for Further Research
This study examined the provision of information to small-scale vegetable farmers in
Wareng district, Kenya and proposes a model for improved access to information by
vegetable farmers.
This study concentrated on provision of information to vegetable farmers in Wareng
district. A study should be carried on provision of information to fruit farmers in
Wareng district.
There is also the need for a study to investigate the information needs of fruit farmers
and opportunities for export since fruits do well in Wareng district.
116
REFERENCES
Arusei, E.J. (2000) The awareness of farmers on the dangers associated with the use
and application of farm chemicals on wheat and maize, M.Phil Thesis
unpublished.
Benor, D. & Baxter, M.A. Agricultural Extension: The Training and visit system.
Bailey, K.D. (1994) Methods of Social Research, 4 th
ed. LA, Free Press
Bosire, E. M. (2002) Information needs of the floriculture farming community in
Kenya: a case study of Uasin-Gishu District, Thesis Unpublished.
CTA (1998) Promoting the exchange of information, Wagenigen, Technical Centre
forAgricultural and rural cooperation
Debons et al (1981), The information professional: Survey of an emerging field,
Marcel Dekker, new York.
Harris, K.M. and Scott, P.R. (1989). Crop protection information: An International
Perspective.
Hart, C. (2006) Doing a literature review: releasing the social science research
imagination, Sage, London
ICT update No. 133 (2008), Web. 2.0 ICT tools in action.
ICT update No. 133 June (2007), Podcasting
ICT update No. 36 April (2007), Mobile Financial Services
ICT update No. 36 April (2007), Mobile wallets and virtual currencies
ICT update No. 39 October (2007), Sharing Information
ICT update No. 40 December (2007), Language Technology – Accessing information by voice
ICT update No. 41 February (2008), Wireless internet: Spreading from the centre
ICT update No. 46 December (2008), Rural Energy Supply
ICT update No. 47 February (2009), Market and Export Information
ICT update No. 49 June (2009), Radio – talking back to radio the centre of information
ICT update No. 50 August (2009), Mobile and ICT services
ICT update No. 53 February (2010), Farmers services (Direct Data on Demand)
117
ICT update No. 51 October (2009), Mobile Telephone Services
Kenya Agricultural Research Institute (KARI), 2000 www.kari.org,
www.erails.net?KE
Kothari, C.R. (1990) Research methodology: methods and techniques, Delhi, Wiley
Eastern.
Kullthau, C.C. (1991), Inside the search process: Information seeking from user‟s perspective journal of American Society of Information Science, Vol. 42
Lewins, A. (2005) Qualitative data analysis, London, Sage.
Macevicuite Elena A parallel between the models of communication and the models
in information behaviour research. Online http://emeraldinsight.com A
parallel between the models of communication and the models in information
behavior research
McQuail, D. & Windah. S. (1993) Communication models for the study of mass
communication, London, Longman.
Mengech, a. and Saxena, K. (1995) Integrated pest management in the tropics:
Current status and future prospects. New York, Wiley & Sons.
Midmore, D.J., Parker, J. & Clark, J. (2005) Crop protection: An issue of the Asian
vegetables and herbs and spices industry
Ministry of Finance and Planning Uasin Gishu District Development Plan 2002-2008,
Government Press.
Ministry of Planning and National Development, National Development Plan 2002-
2008, Government Press.
Ministry of Planning and National Development, Sessional Paper No.1 (1986)
Economic management for renewed growth, Government Press, Nairobi.
Ministry of Planning and National Development, Sessional Paper No.2 (1992)
Development and Employment in Kenya, Government Press, Nairobi
Mugenda, O.M and Mugenda, A.G. (2003) Research methodology: quantitative and
qualitative approaches, Nairobi, ACTS Press.
Munyua, (2000), ICT for rural development and food security: Lessons from field
experiences in developed countries Online http:// knowledge information and
communication.
Munyua, H. (2009) A study of the agricultural knowledge and information in systems
of small-scale farmers in Kirinyaga, district, Kenya, http://emeraldinsight.com.
118
National Development Plan 2002 – 2008 (2002), Effective management for sustainable economic growth and poverty reduction, GOK
Ngetich, F.K. (2005) Provision of agricultural information to small scale tea growers
in Kenya: A case study of Bureti District, Thesis unpublished.
Niedzwiedzka, Barbara (2003), http://www.informatik.uni.trier.de.
Odero, D.O. (2001) Strengthening community organizations information systems for
improved environmental management; the case of Uasin Gishu District,
Unpublished M.Phil Thesis.
Odini C. (1993) Trends in information needs and use Research, Library Review 42(7).
Ojiambo, J.B. (1993), Odini, C. (1993) & Crawford (1978) Issues in Library user
studies: Trends in information needs and use research library review 42 (7)
Ojiambo, J.B. and D.N. Ocholla (1993) Information user studies: Issues in Library
and information studies, Nairobi, JKF
Sustainable network of agricultural information sharing and dissemination through
ICT for improving sustainable livelihoods, Online
http://www.stockholmchallenge: (Accessed 2009)
Otieno, David et al (2009), Market participation by vegetable farmers in Kenya: a
comparison of rural and peri-urban areas African Journal of Agricultural
Research Vol. 4 No. 5 2009
Ozowa, (1995), Information needs of small scale farmers in Africa: the Nigerian
example, IAALD / CABI Vol. 4 No. 1 1995
Rege, R. A. (2006) Agricultural information resources in Kenya: generation, access
and management frameworks, KARI research paper, Nairobi
Rogers, E.M. (1995) Diffusion of Innovations. New York, Free Press.
Song Y. (2009) Designing library services based on user needs: new opportunities to
reposition the library, World Library and Information Congress: 75 th
IFLA
Conference and Council, Milan, Italy.
Spore No. 103 February (2003), Knowledge Banks
Spore No. 115 February (2005), Weather risks in farming: Weathering times of boom
and burst
Spore No. 134 April (2008), SMS alerts
Spore No. 136 August (2008), Agricultural training: An imperative need
Spore No. 137 October (2008), Irrigation- Water powered pump
119
Spore No. 139 February (2009), Soil fertility: Feed the land
Sturges, P. and Feather (2003) International Encyclopaedia of information and library
science, London Routledge.
Thapisa APN (1997), A quest for an agricultural information programme for
Southern Africa, Library Management Vol. 18 No. 4 online
emeraldinsight.com. Accessed (2008).
Wambugu, M. (2008), Eight million adults are illiterate, survey shows, the Standard
Monday September 8 th
2008
Wellings, H. (2007) The hidden chemicals in fruit and vegetables
Willlis, Yuko Oso and David Owen (2008) A general guide to writing research
proposal report: a handbook for beginning researchers, 2 nd
ed. Makerere
University, Kampala
Wilson, T.D. (1999), Models on information seeking behaviour research Journal of
information documentation Vol. 55 No. 3
120
APPENDICES
APPENDIX 1
INTERVIEW SCHEDULE FOR VEGETABLE FARMERS
1. General Information
a) Occupation
______________________________
b) Village
______________________________
c) Location
______________________________
d) District
______________________________
2. What is the level of education that you have attained?
____________________________________________________________
3. What form of farming do you carry out?
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
4. Do you carry out irrigation?
____________________________________________________________
If yes, what source of water do you use to irrigate?
____________________________________________________________
5. What forms of irrigation systems do you use?
____________________________________________________________
6. Do you use fertilizers on your farms?
___________________________________________________________
121
7. What type of chemicals/ fertilizers do you apply in your farm?
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
8. Where do you sell your vegetables?
___________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
9. How do you communicate with agricultural officers?
____________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
10. What are your sources of funds?
_______________________________________________________________
11. Through what channels do you receive the information that you need?
Which of these channels do you prefer?
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
12. What problems do you face in searching and accessing agricultural
information?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
(a) How do these problems affect your work?
______________________________________________________________
(b) Suggest ways to overcome these problems.
______________________________________________________________
122
APPENDIX II
INTERVIEW SCHEDULE FOR AGRICULTURAL OFFICERS
RESPONDENT’S DATA
a) Position
_______________________________________________________________
b) Educational/Professional Level
_______________________________________________________________
c) Technical Level
_______________________________________________________________
d) Duties and Responsibilities
_______________________________________________________________
Profile of organization
1. Name of Organization
_______________________________________________________________
2 Tel. No./ Address
_______________________________________________________________
Fax
_______________________________________________________________
3. Role of Organization
_______________________________________________________________
4. What are the services you provide to the farming community?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
123
5. Who are your clients?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
6. Any information Resources and Services e.g. Library?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
7. Do you provide agricultural information to small-scale vegetable farmers of
Wareng district?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
If Yes, what type of agricultural information do you provide to them?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
If no. explain further
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
8. Do your clients come to you for information?
____________________________________________________________
If yes, how often do they contact your office? -
____________________________________________________________
If no, explain further.
___________________________________________________________
124
9. Where do you obtain agricultural information that you give to vegetable
farmers?
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
10. How do you disseminate the information to vegetable farmers?
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
11. What are educational levels of your clients?
12. What formats do you present information?
13. How do you communicate this information to the farming community?
14. What language do you use to disseminate the information to farmers?
15. What problems do you encounter in disseminating the information to the
farmers?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
16. Suggest ways of solving these problems
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________