Research & Innovation: Unlocking Digital Agriculture for Rural Farmers

In 2023, the Centre for Community Health and Environmental Change (CCHEC) partnered with the Haller Foundation UK to conduct a pivotal research study titled: “Uncovering Mobile Technology Usage Among African Smallholder Farmers.”

This timely collaboration was driven by a growing realization: while mobile phones are widespread across Kenya, their potential as tools for agricultural transformation remains vastly underutilized in rural communities. The study sought to bridge the knowledge gap by exploring the realities on the ground—what tools farmers use, how they use them, and what barriers they face.

The research was conducted across four farming communities in Magarini Sub-county, Kilifi County—Burangi, Milimani, Pokea Mwana, and Kipanga Jeni. These are predominantly arid and semi-arid areas where farming is not only a livelihood but a lifeline. Over 1,000 smallholder farmers were reached in face-to-face interviews, providing firsthand insights into the intersection of agriculture, mobile technology, and rural development.

Why This Study Matters

Smallholder farmers are at the front line of food production in Kenya, yet many face limited access to reliable weather forecasts, markets, credit, or up-to-date agronomic practices. This study aimed to understand:

• How mobile phones are currently being used by rural farmers
• What digital farming solutions (like the Haller Farmers App) are accessible and practical for smallholders
• The social, economic, and infrastructural barriers preventing wider technology uptake
• The role digital tools can play in boosting productivity, resilience, and income

Key Findings

• While mobile phone ownership was high, smartphone usage remained limited due to cost and low digital literacy.
• Farmers expressed strong interest in accessing agricultural content—but most relied on peers, local agro-vets, or radio for advice.
• Awareness of digital apps for agriculture was very low, but when introduced to the Haller Farmers App, many farmers showed enthusiasm and willingness to learn.
• Network connectivity and electricity access were cited as major obstacles, alongside lack of training on how to use digital tools effectively.

Impact and the Way Forward

Armed with these insights, CCHEC and Haller Foundation are now working to scale digital inclusion initiatives, including:

• Training sessions on mobile app usage for farming
• Simplified user guides in local languages
• Community demonstration plots integrating smart farming techniques
• Advocacy for increased investment in rural internet and energy infrastructure

Our Commitment

At CCHEC, we believe that research should serve the people. This project is just one example of how we blend local knowledge with international partnerships to create sustainable change. The goal is clear: equip farmers with the tools, information, and support they need to thrive in a changing world.