Use of Information Systems (Mobile Phone App) for Enhancing Smallholder Farmers’ Productivity in Eastern Cape Province, South Africa: Implications on Food Security

Abstract

The rapid growth of information systems in the form of mobile phone applications in developing countries resulted in several benefits compared to other choices in relation to costs, environmental exposure, and simplicity of usage. However, smallholder farmers fail to meet the soaring demand for food and other agro commodities in time, and dodging market overflows is an extreme encounter among communal farmers due to a deficiency of information and unacquainted administration. Therefore, the study analyzes the factors influencing the use of information systems for enhancing smallholder production in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study applied a descriptive survey research design. A multi-stage simple random technique was used to collect data from 220 emerging growers using a semi-structured survey. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics and a logistic regression model. The study indicated that most smallholder growers in the mentioned study area use information systems (IS) for their agricultural activities and agribusinesses and have further changed the farming landscape. Interestingly, agricultural productivity has been enhanced, as well as improved the food security status among rural households. Smallholder farmers have experienced problems in using information systems on their farms. Empirical results reveal that socio-economic factors influence the use of mass media for agricultural purposes by smallholder farmers. Therefore, the study recommends the government should embark on educational awareness and training of farmers in using information systems to enhance productivity.