Drivers and barriers in embracing digital farming: Insights from the smallholder farmers in the NENA region

This paper explores the possibilities for boosting the role of agricultural economics, in particular, the role of family-based farming, through the use of digital technologies. Overcoming the barriers to digital technology adoption is essential for driving meaningful transformation within agriculture. In our study, we conducted a regional pilot survey on attitudes of farmers towards digital agriculture in three countries within the NENA region. The methodology is based on existing documentation and strives to gather fresh insights by means of a survey questionnaire to identify and assess needs, gaps and challenges of adopting digital agriculture. Farmers survey revealed that the adoption of digital technologies has led to improved productivity, increased efficiency and reduced costs. The use of drones and satellite imagery optimized the use of fertilizers, water and other inputs. Similarly, the use of mobile apps and online marketplaces facilitated access to information, connection with buyers and access to financial services. Nonetheless, farmers highlighted difficulties of inadequate availability of digital infrastructure and services, insufficient digital skills, and apprehensions regarding data protection and confidentiality. This study addresses a gap in the literature by providing insights to design tailored programs and ensuring that digital agriculture is more accessible and beneficial. This study reports how farmers perceive digital tools, particularly, how does digital agriculture diffuse amongst farmers, and its impact on the resilience of farming communities. This research presents diverse pathways through which digital agriculture can tackle key issues within farming systems and contribute to shifts in social norms and behaviours that remains underrepresented in existing literature, particularly within the current digital agriculture landscape of the NENA region.