Information and Communication Technologies Use in Dairy Farms in Zimbabwe: A Case Study of Dairy Farms in Mutasa District in Manicaland Province

Abstract

This study investigated the adoption, benefits, and challenges of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in dairy farms in the Mutasa District of Manicaland Province, Zimbabwe, utilizing a purposive sample of thirty small-scale and medium- to large-scale farmers. The overall ICT utilization was found to be low, with farmers primarily relying on the mobile phone as the most pervasive tool across all scales. The principal benefit cited was improved financial services, for instance mobile money transfers for milk payments. Despite the potential for improved productivity, the adoption of advanced dairy ICTs and computers was negligible. Statistical analysis revealed no significant difference in overall ICT usage between the two farming scales. The main constraints to adoption were identified as the high costs of ICTs and a pervasive lack of skills, compounded by infrastructural deficits such as the unavailability of electricity. The study recommends a dedicated focus on providing adequate financing and implementing targeted skills development through community information centers and extension services to promote the uptake of advanced agricultural ICTs.