Resumen

SHEMFE, O.  y  MODIRWA, S.. Perceptions of Small-scale Farmers on the Adoption of ICTs for Accessing Agricultural Information in Mahikeng, Northwest Province, South Africa. S Afr. Jnl. Agric. Ext. [online]. 2026, vol.54, n.1, pp.128-154. ISSN 2413-3221.  https://doi.org/10.17159/2413-3221/2026/v54n1a20194.

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools such as mobile phones, the internet, and radio can significantly improve small-scale farmers ' access to agricultural information, enhancing decision-making and productivity. However, in rural regions like Mahikeng (Northwest Province, South Africa), the extent of ICT adoption and farmers' perceptions of these technologies remain underexplored. This study aimed to assess small-scale farmers' perceptions of ICT adoption for accessing agricultural information and to identify the key factors influencing these perceptions. A quantitative, descriptive survey was conducted with 121 randomly selected small-scale farmers. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analysed using chi-square tests and binary logistic regression. Respondents were predominantly male with limitedformal education, and the majority (86%) used ICT tools especially television, radio, and mobile phones to obtain agricultural information. Overall, perceptions of ICT use were positive: approximately two-thirds agreed on its value for driving agricultural change, improving productivity, profitability, and enhancing market access. Chi-square analysis revealed significant associations between perception of ICT use and level of education (p = 0.046), awareness of ICTs (p = 0.000), and Direct use of ICT ((p = 0.004). Logistic regression showed that level of education (P < 0.01), ICT awareness (P < 0.05), and ease of use (P < 0.05) positively influenced perceptions, while gender (P < 0.10) and reliance on traditional information sources (P < 0.10) had negative associations. The study recommends expanding farmer education, ICT awareness, and access to user-friendly tools to strengthen adoption and support sustainable agricultural growth in rural communities.

Palabras clave : Small-Scale Farmers; ICT Adoption; Agricultural Information; Perception.

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