African GIS Applications (Technology/Methodology) | 08 December 2011
Mobile Catalysts in Agricultural Information Transmission: A Senegalese Case Study
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Abstract
Agricultural productivity in Senegal is influenced by farmers' access to timely information on weather patterns, market prices, and crop management practices. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including quantitative surveys to assess user engagement and qualitative interviews to explore perceptions and usage patterns. Data were collected using smartphones with pre-loaded applications designed for data collection and dissemination. Mobile users reported an average increase in information access of 45% compared to their baseline, with significant variation across regions, particularly in the northern part of Senegal where connectivity was more stable. The integration of mobile technology has significantly enhanced farmers' access to agricultural information, contributing to improved decision-making and productivity. Further research should explore the long-term effects of mobile interventions on yield outcomes and broader socio-economic impacts. Agricultural Information Dissemination, Mobile Technology, Senegal, Senegalese Farmers Model estimation used $\hat{\theta}=argmin<em>{\theta}\sum</em>i\ell(y<em>i,f</em>\theta(x<em>i))+\lambda\lVert\theta\rVert</em>2^2$, with performance evaluated using out-of-sample error.