The role of information and communication technologies-based extension in agriculture: application, opportunities and challenges

Abstract

Limited access to information about new technologies is a major barrier to agricultural productivity. To bridge this information gap, agricultural extension services increasingly use Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) to provide timely and actionable information to farmers. This systematic review analyses evidence from 49 studies examining the impact of ICT interventions including mobile apps, SMS messaging, educational videos, and voice calling services on awareness, agricultural practices adoption, yields, and income. The review reveals that 76% of studies reported increased adoption of good agricultural practices, 60% demonstrated improved awareness, 74% indicated higher yields, and 68% observed enhanced incomes. Cereals, particularly maize, were the most studied crops, featuring in 52% of the studies. The success of the ICT interventions depends on well-designed messaging, adequate user training, and integration with complementary interventions. While ICTs demonstrate substantial potential to advance agricultural development outcomes, their success requires customization to local contexts, capacities, and cropping systems.