November 2018 Vol. 6 No.11

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Motsoene MP
Mojaki R

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Original Research Article

Assessment of the Potential for Introduction of Mobile Phone-Based Agricultural Extension Service in Roma Valley, Lesotho

¹Motsoene M. P., ¹Rantlo A. M., ²Nchee S.D. and ¹Mojaki R.

¹Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, National University of Lesotho, P.O. 180 Roma
²Department of Communication, University of Fort Hare, X 1314, Alice. South Africa

*Corresponding Author’s E-mail: am.rantlo@nul.ls
Cell: +2665913491
 
Accepted November 18, 2018

Abstract

The study examined the potential for introduction of mobile phone-based extension services delivery in Roma Valley. The specific objectives were to: assess farmers’ access to and use of mobile phones for extension service delivery, assess the willingness of farmers to use mobile phones for extension service delivery and identify the factors which may constrain the use of mobile phones for extension service delivery in Roma valley. The study used quantitative research design and the target population was households in Liphehleng, Hata-Butle, Mafikeng, Pae-La-Itlhatsoa, Mangopeng and Ha- Mafefooane in Roma valley. Systematic random sampling technique was used to select 60 respondents. Data were analysed descriptively using frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviations as statistical indicators using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The study revealed that majority of respondents had no access to ICT tools, particularly mobile phones, although they were aware of the contribution of mobile phones as sources of agricultural information and, hence, generally willing to use them for extension service delivery. Also, respondents were aware of the factors known to be promoting or constraining the use of mobile phones in extension service delivery.

Keywords: ICT, mobile phones