Determinants of Information and Communication Technologies Usage among Maize Value Chain Actors in ADP Zone 1 of Taraba State, Nigeria
Abstract
This study assessed the determinants of information and communication technologies usage among maize value chain actors in ADP zone one, Taraba State, Nigeria. The specific objectives of the study were to describe the socio-economic characteristics of the actors, identified the ICT’s tools use, determine factors influencing ICT usage, and identified constraints militating against usage of ICT devices. Primary data were collected from 180 respondents using multistage and purposive sampling techniques and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results revealed that producers (46.7%), processors (50.0%), marketers (55.0%) are between 41-45years with a mean of 42, 43, 42years. Producers (51.7%), processors (63.3%) were male while marketers (63.3%) were females and (55.0%), (60.0%), (66.6%) of the producers, processors and marketers were married with household size of 6-10 members. Similarly, 40.0%, 38.3%, 56.6% of the actors acquired secondary education while producers 40% had 16 – 20 years of experience, processors 21.6% had 16 – 20 years of experience, marketers 63.3% had 16 – 20 years of experience. The actors source information through telephone, radio and internet. The ICT’s tools used by the actors were radio, mobile phone, television and internet. Factors influencing usage of ICT tools were educational level, age, and access to credit. Major constraints to usage are unstable power supply, inadequate fund and high cost of ICT’s facilities. The study recommends that government should prioritize initiatives to raise awareness, provide training, and improve access to ICTs. Government and non-governmental organizations should provide basic infrastructures in rural areas, such as electricity, telephone and internet connectivity.
Keywords
DeterminantsInformation and Communication Technology (ICT)UtilizationValue
References
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