Access and Use of Information for Enhanced Adoption of Climate Smart Agricultural Practices among Smallholder Farmers in Lake Victoria Basin, Kenya

Abstract

The value of information in agricultural production cannot be overemphasized given the challenges caused by the impact of climate change. This study evaluated the importance of accessing and using information for enhanced adoption of climate-smart agriculture (CSA) practices in sorghum production among smallholder farmers in Lake Victoria Basin, Kenya. The study used a quantitative research method with a correlation design, collecting data from 382 farmers through a questionnaire. A pilot study was conducted with a 10% sample size to assess reliability and validity achieving a CVI value of 0.877445696 and Cronbach’s alpha (α) value of 0.809. Descriptive statistics were used to determine information access and use, while correlation analysis examined associations between age and education and information access and use. The findings showed that farmers obtained information primarily from television, radio, extension workers, and neighbors and friends. The accessibility and use of this information were influenced by age and level of education. The findings are significant since they can help agricultural stakeholders identify and use appropriate channel and context-specific information to disseminate information that would enhance the adoption of CSA practices for improved sorghum yield. This may increase farmers' resilience to climate variability and improve their farming knowledge and skills, potentially leading to better livelihoods for the farming communities in the region. By advocating the provision of easily accessible and relevant information in the appropriate format and media, the findings may aid in policy formulation by providing policymakers with insights when formulating agricultural policies and legislation.