Development Calling : The Use of Mobile Phones in Agriculture Development in Uganda

This study examined the diffusion and perceived impact of agricultural-based mobile phone use among smallto medium-size limited-resource farm holders in Kamuli District, Uganda, where 42% of farm households now have a mobile phone. Interviews were conducted with 110 smallto medium-size farm holders – 56 men and 54 women. Respondents were chosen according to farm group (n=91) or non-farm group (n=19) membership status. Results showed more than half of the farmers were using their mobile phones for coordination for access to agricultural inputs, getting market information, monitoring financial transactions and agriculture emergency situations. Slightly less than half were consulting with experts via mobile phones. Men tended to adopt mobile phones earlier than women and those with more education were more likely to use SMS (short message service) text features. Women were less likely to use the calculator function, perhaps due to a lack of numerical literacy training. Those who were members of agricultural groups were more likely to use their mobile phones for a variety of purposes. The study identified a number of unique uses being made of mobile phones, including taking photos of agricultural demonstrations, using the loudspeaker function to permit a group of farmers to consult with an expert, recording group members pledging when they will repay loans, and storing data such as the date hens should start laying eggs. Diffusion of mobile phones is now in a “take-off” stage with rapid adoption. However, universal adoption would depend on both need and benefits. keywords: [agriculture, diffusion, ICTs, ICTD, mobile telephony, rural development, Uganda]