The role of communication networks in promoting potato production and marketing in Semonkong, Maseru District

Abstract

Semonkong smallholder farmers' communication networks (telephone, television, radio, road, and internet) connect farmers to agricultural production and marketing in rural Lesotho. This study aimed to assess the role of communication networks in the production and marketing of potatoes among smallholder farmers in Semonkong, Lesotho. A mixed-method research design that combines quantitative and qualitative research methods is used. The study's research questions concentrated on the "how" and "what" of communication networks' effects on agricultural output. The research objectives include an examination of the role of communication networks in promoting agricultural production and marketing of farm produce, examination of how smallholder farmers access and use marketing technology in promoting farm produce in rural Lesotho, and to assessment of challenges that farmers face when attempting to access agriculture information in rural LesothoThe study's findings indicated that farmers with more expertise are far more likely to adopt agricultural practices that will boost their yield and enable them to participate in marketplaces. The research, therefore, suggests that the government of Lesotho increase its investment in the construction of Information Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure. According to the literature, most farmers are hampered in accessing and disseminating agricultural information due to poor infrastructure, resulting in decreased potato yield and productivity. The results also show that extension staff provide the vast bulk of information delivery to farmers, accumulating educational skills, extension tools, and communication tools, farmers gain from communication networks. However, there are not enough extension agents working in the current environment to provide farmers with new technology. Information is been shared with many stakeholders involved in agricultural activities using information and communication technology (ICT) techniques. It can be concluded that access to relevant information and knowledge is very important to improve agricultural performances and livelihoods in rural areas, especially in African countries. Agriculture-related innovations will change the way smallholder farmers practice, do business, and access advisory agricultural information. According to the reviewed literature, efforts to develop enabling policies that guide and support the use of ICT-related technologies must be strengthened