Information and Communication Technology (Ict) and Value Chains in Agribusiness in Kiambu County, Kenya.

Abstract

Agriculture has always been seen traditional and detached from modern technology since most farmers continue to use traditional processes that depend heavily on traditional norms such use of tools like hoes that have not evolved for centuries. Now the barrier of entry into farming technology is dropping as cloud computing, connectivity, open-source software, mobile applications and other digital tools have become accessible and affordable. This study therefore sought to critically examine and establish the relationship between the adoption of ICT and agricultural productivity in Kiambu County and also how ICT in agribusiness has enhanced Value chains and agriculture in general. Also to establish factors that affects adoption of ICT by agribusiness and identifies the key innovations in agribusiness in the County.The study employed cross sectional survey design, targeting 30 ICT and Production managers from each of the 30 sampled agribusinesses. Primary data was collected using questionnaires, analyzed using frequencies, mean, standard deviation, percentages and regression analysis. The results were presented using figures and tables. The findings show a fair level of ICT adoption and usage in agribusinesses in Kiambu County and a positive relationship in agricultural productivity in most agribusinesses that have adopted ICT. Lastly the study established that the use of ICTs have greatly enhanced value chains and agriculture in the County and also the study have been able to identify some of the key ICT innovations that farmers are employing to enhance efficiency and effectiveness of their day to day activities. Further study should however be done on ICT adoption and value chain enhancement by narrowing down to a single category of agribusiness.