Abstract

This study assessed Information needed while using ICTs among maize farmers in Dangbo and Adjohoun in southern Benin Republic. Data were collected from a random sample of 150 maize farmers. The data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics used were Chi-square, Pearson?s Product Moment Correlation and t-test at p=0.05. The results showed that farmers? mean age was 43?1 years and were mostly male (88.0 %), married (88.0 %), Christians (67.3%) and 48.7% had no formal education. Prominent constraints to ICTs use were power supply (?X =1.80) and high cost of maintenance of ICTs gadget (?X =1.58). The most needed information by farmers using ICTs was on availability and cost of fertilisers insecticides and herbicides (?X =1.20) and availability and cost of labour (?X =1.16). Farmers? constraints (t=2.832; p=0.005) significantly differed between Dangbo and Adjohoun communes. The information need of farmers in Dangbo and Adjohoun communes (t=0.753; p=0.453) do not significantly differ. The study concluded that the major barriers facing ICTs usage were power supply and high cost of maintenance of ICTs gadget; and there is the need for information on agricultural inputs. The study therefore recommended that government agencies in charge of power supply should make effort to ensure steady power supply.

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