Determinants of Information and Communication Technology Usage Among Cassava Value Chain Actors in Southwest, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated the determinants of information and communication technology usage among cassava value chain actors in Southwest Nigeria. The research focuses on identifying the factors influencing the use of ICT tools among cassava producers, marketers, and processors. Data were collected from 355 respondents using random and cluster sampling techniques and analysed through mean scores, frequency counts, percentages, and multiple regression. The most commonly used ICT tools among the actors are radio ( = = 2.92), mobile phones ( = = 2.80), and social media ( = 2.55), while global positioning systems (GPS) ( = = 0.34), and aerial drones = = 0.06) are among the least utilized. The finding revealed that the level of ICT usage among CVCAs in the region is relatively low. The result of multiple regression analysis indicates that sex, education level, household size, years of CVC experience, extension contacts, and membership in social organizations significantly influenced ICT usage among CVCAs. The study recommends that the extension institutions and relevant stakeholders should design and implement training programmes focused on enhancing the skills and capacity of cassava value chain actors (CVCAs) in utilizing modern ICT tools and harnessing their power for an efficient, and sustainable cassava value chain in Nigeria.