APPLICATION OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES IN AGRICULTURE: A REVIEW OF THE PRACTICE AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR SMALLHOLDER FARMERS

Abstract

The recent emergence of digital technologies is rapidly transforming the efficiency, effectiveness, and transparency of agricultural production. Smallholder farmers (SHFs) often have limited access to credit facilities, are poorly trained, use old farming tools and practices, and face difficulties managing post-harvest losses and accessing suitable markets for their produce. Changes in climatic conditions and the unpredictability of weather patterns have expounded the current challenges. Digital technology offers scalable opportunities to bridge the gaps and increase the resilience of SHFs in sustaining food production. This study focused on the application of four independent variables of digital technologies by smallholder farmers; use of digital lending technology to access capital and credit facilities; the availability of digital agricultural extension services; the use of digital technology for market linkages and the use of digitally improved tools and farming techniques. The results showed that smallholder farmers who have been trained in digital technologies and use digitally improved tools & modern farming techniques have derived the most benefit and increased output. Precision agriculture, data-driven decision-making at the farm levels, and integration of other Agri-service platforms have helped in improving efficiency, productivity, and sustainability across the whole agricultural value chain. There is still greater opportunity to enhance digital lending platforms and digital marketing for agricultural produce.