Examining factors influencing access to market information among smallholder maize farmers :

Abstract

Information is crucial for enhancing agricultural productivity in any country, as it enables farmers to make well-informed choices regarding new alternatives, innovative technologies, and strategies to boost production and explore market opportunities. However, in developing nations, access to current and comprehensive market information remains limited and insufficient. The aim of this study was to assess the socio-economic factors influencing choice of market information channels used by smallholder farmers and to identify the market information channels used by smallholder farmers in Balawoli sub-county. A cross –sectional research design and mixed methods research approach were used. Three parishes including Balawoli, Namayira and Kawaaga were selected and a total of 117 respondents were selected using simple random sampling. Primary data was collected from farmers by using close ended questionnaires and interviews, cleaned, coded and analyzed using SPSS and STATA. Fellow farmers and radios information channels were widely used compared to other channels. The findings indicated that gender, age, education level, farming experience, household size, farmer group membership, labor use, land ownership and average monthly household income influenced the choice of market information channels used by respondents. These insights can inform targeted interventions or policies to support underrepresented groups in agriculture and strengthen access to market information among smallholder farmers. Some of the recommendations were; to develop and promote training programs specifically designed for women farmers to enhance their skills and knowledge regarding market information, Provide incentives for farmers to join existing groups or form new ones, Create mentorship opportunities where experienced farmers can guide less experience farmers and Collaborating with local radio stations to create targeted programming that addresses the specific market information needs of smallholder farmers in languages they understand.