Information communication methods used for management of transboundary animal diseases (TADS) amongst livestock keepers: The case of selected counties in Kenya

Abstract: 
This study investigated utilization of Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) for management of Transboundary Animal Diseases (TADs). The study was informed by Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and Diffusion of Innovation theory as guiding towards establishing the factors for acceptance and use of ICTs for management of TADs. One of the study objectives investigated the role and type of information, communication methods used for management of TADs amongst livestock keepers. A mixed-methods approach involving documentary analysis, semi-structured and structured questionnaires was used to obtain data. Livestock keepers and community-based stakeholders (n=356) were interviewed in Uasin Gishu, Kajiado, Nandi and Trans Nzoia counties of Kenya. The Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) was used in analyzing data. The study applied descriptive statistics, correlations, tests of significance and regression statistical methods in establishing set objectives. The study established a positive correlation between ICT utilization (dependable variable) and access to information and technologies, contact with change agents, and training. The correlation between cost of ICT services and ICT utilization was negative. Findings from multiple regression established training as the highly rated factor contributing towards utilization of ICTs in management of TADs. The radio was the ICT most used and preferred in management of TADs. The respondents rated government officials, private companies and NGOs as the change agents with high influence towards management of TADs. However, religious groups and extension workers were reported as having minimal influence with regard to management of TADs. The use of radio, mobile telephone, CD Rom and television were the ICTs highly recommended as ideal to livestock keepers in management of TADs. The study calls for finalization of Kenya ICT policy of 2006, and also recommends for further research in establishing additional factors which would contribute towards utilization of ICTs for management of TADs by livestock keepers.
Date of publication: 
2018
Country: 
Region Focus: 
East Africa
Volume: 
17
Number: 
2
Pagination: 
131-138
Collection: 
RUFORUM Working document series
Licence conditions: 
Open Access
Access restriction: 
Form: 
Web resource
ISSN: 
1607-9345
Extent: 
8