Assessing the Impact of Mobile Extension Services on Smallholder Dairy Productivity

Thesis Abstract

Smallholder dairy farmers in developing regions face significant challenges in accessing timely and relevant extension services, which constrains productivity and limits livelihood improvements. Traditional extension systems often fall short due to logistical constraints, high costs, and limited reach, necessitating innovative solutions to enhance information dissemination and advisory services. This study aims to assess the impact of mobile extension services on smallholder dairy productivity, with specific objectives to evaluate the adoption rate of mobile-based extension tools, quantify changes in milk yield and herd health parameters, and identify factors influencing farmers’ engagement with mobile extension platforms. The research adopts a mixed-methods, cross-sectional design, integrating quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews to generate comprehensive insights. The study population comprises smallholder dairy farmers within the Central Highlands region, with a total registered population of approximately 3,200 farmers. A stratified random sampling technique is employed to select a representative sample of 400 farmers, ensuring proportional inclusion of mobile extension service users and non-users. Data collection involves structured questionnaires assessing demographic variables, technology usage patterns, and productivity metrics, complemented by focus group discussions and key informant interviews to contextualize quantitative findings. Instrument validity and reliability are established through pre-testing, Cronbach’s alpha analysis, and expert validation. Quantitative data are analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multiple regression analysis to determine the relationship between mobile extension service adoption and productivity outcomes, controlling for confounding variables such as farm size, education, and access to credit. Qualitative data undergo thematic content analysis to elucidate user perceptions, barriers to adoption, and perceived benefits. It is anticipated that the findings will demonstrate a positive correlation between mobile extension service utilization and indicators of dairy productivity, including increased average milk yield per cow, improved herd health management, and enhanced access to market information. The study is expected to reveal that factors such as farmers’ education level, mobile phone literacy, and perceived ease of use significantly influence adoption rates, aligning with the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Diffusion of Innovations theory. This research contributes to agricultural extension literature by providing empirical evidence on the effectiveness of ICT-driven interventions in smallholder dairy systems, highlighting the potential for scaling mobile platforms to enhance productivity and livelihoods in similar contexts. It also offers policy recommendations for integrating mobile extension services into national agricultural extension frameworks, emphasizing capacity building and infrastructure development. Conclusively, the study underscores the importance of leveraging mobile technology as a cost-effective, scalable tool for agricultural development. Recommendations include expanding mobile extension service programs, fostering partnerships with telecom providers, and increasing farmer training on digital tools. Future research should explore longitudinal assessments of mobile service impacts and comparative analyses across different agro-ecological zones to generalize findings and improve intervention strategies. The insights provided herein aim to inform policymakers, development agencies, and extension service providers committed to transforming smallholder dairy productivity through innovative ICT solutions.