Factors influencing access to agrometeorological information among sorghum farmers. Empirical evidence among sorghum farmers in Busia County, Kenya

Abstract

An increase in climatic shocks resulting from climate change is indeed affecting agricultural productivity among smallholder farmers. Agrometeorological information plays a significant role in helping smallholder farmers with the necessary information to overcome some of the shocks due to climate changes, thereby improving agricultural productivity and incomes. However, access to agrometeorological information among smallholder farmers has been a challenge despite the available agrometeorological information on various platforms and yet this is essential in managing climate change. This study aimed to understand the factors influencing access to agrometeorological information among sorghum farmers in Busia county, Kenya. Primary data collected from 423 smallholder sorghum farmers were used. Using a structured questionnaire and a well-trained team of research assistants, data were collected using a multistage sampling technique. Data were analysed using a binary logistic model in STATA 16 software. The findings revealed that 90% of the smallholder farmers had been exposed to climatic shocks such as droughts and erratic rainfall. The econometric model showed that farmers’ location, age, farming experience, radio ownership, access to internet services and credit facilities influenced access to agrometeorological information. The study recommends that improving infrastructure such as roads, electricity, and telecommunication networks is necessary for improving access to agrometeorological information. Moreover, relaying reliable information by agro-met advisors is vital in strengthening farmers' trust, which is essential in accessing agrometeorological information.