Title:
How ICT can make a difference in agricultural livelihoods
Authors:
Stienen, J.
,
Bruinsma, W.
,
Neuman, F.
Year:
2007
Journal:
The Commonwealth Ministers Reference Book
PAGE:
3
Language:
eng
Subject:
Information, Knowledge and Communication
Keywords:
information and communication technologies
,
agriculture
,
policy
Abstract:
This article explores the potential contribution of ICT to the livelihoods of small-scale farmers and the efficiency of the agricultural sector in developing countries. ICTs can help in: (1) enhancing agricultural production; (2) improving market access; and (3) capacity-building and empowerment. There is ample potential for effective use of ICT in agriculture and initiatives are promising. However, much still remains to be done. Several future trends of great importance are: the convergence of media and tools for communication; increased web-based storage of agricultural information; cheaper and improved connectivity for rural communities; increased recognition by governments of the importance of the use of ICT in rural development; and increased tailor-made, quality agricultural information services.
Organization:
IICD - International Institute for Communication and Development
Region:
Africa South of Sahara
Category:
Policy
Right:
© 2007 IICD
Document type:
E-article
File:
118796.pdf