Perceived constraints in the use of ICT Tools by small holder rice farmers in Southeast, Nigeria

The study examined Perceived constraints in the use of ICT Tools by small holder rice farmers in Southeast, Nigeria. Specifically, it described level of use of ICT, constraints to the use of ICT tools, influence of farmers’ perceived challenges on the level of use of ICT and differences in the use of ICT across States. The finding on the level of use of ICT revealed that a greater proportion (49.79%) of the farmers are making a very low use of ICT tool. The findings on the constraints to the use of ICT tools by rice farmers revealed, factor one (connection factor) explained 30.20% variance of the factors challenging the use of ICT tools/format, factor two (economic factor) explained 10.95% variance of the factors challenging the use of ICT tools/format, factor three (attitude factor) explained 10.59% variance of the factors challenging the use of ICT tools/format, and factor four (location factor) explained 6.46% variance of the factors challenging the use of ICT tools/format in the study area. Furthermore, the 4 factors explained 58.21% of the total factors challenging the use of ICT tools/format in Southeast, Nigeria. The finding on the influence of farmer’s perceived challenges on the level of use of ICT tolls/format had a sum square between group and within group of 20.757 and 265.882 respectively. This implies that the challenges do not influence the level of ICT use in the area. The study on significant difference in the level of use of ICT across States revealed that there was a significant difference in the level of use of ICT tool/format between Anambra and Enugu State (3.18)*** and Ebonyi and Enugu (2.39)**, but none exist between Anambra and Ebonyi. Government and other relevant bodies should ensure that ICT facilities are installed in rural communities and Information meant for rice farmers should be tailored to their specific need were recommended.