Information Dissemination by National Farmers Information Service to Cereal Farmers of Maeni Ward, Kimilili Sub-County, Bungoma County, kenya

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to find out the impact of information dissemination on cereal farmers activities in Maeni Ward, Kimilili Sub-County Bungoma County in Kenya. The objectives were to find out if cereal farmers were aware of National Farmers Information Service and if they were benefitting from the same. Societies have adopted information as a key factor to achievement of development goals. Information is adding value to productivity. The integration of new technology has made it possible for societies to access any required information cheaply and within a short period of time. Developing countries have not been left out in this era of information society. Such countries are making efforts to ensure there is ease of access to information by providing cheap internet connectivity and electrification in most regions. Agriculture is the main stimulus of Kenya's economy. However, the growth of agriculture has been on the decline causing food insecurity in the country. Through research conducted by Kenya government, National Farmers Information Service was initiated. The main purpose was to serve farmers' needs throughout the country including the rural areas, where internet access was linked to enable farmers get critical extension information. A mathematical theory of information communication by Claude proves there are challenges in communicating of information from the source to the intended recipient. The current study used descriptive research design. The sample size consisted of 284 cereal farmers and two NAFIS field officers. Questionnaires, interviews and documentary sources were used to collect datil. Reliability and validity of the instruments were tested through a pilot study that was conducted in Navakholo Sub-County that is not factored in the main study report. Data was analyzed and generated via SPSS and presented in form of table