Interactive Radio Programming and Gender Perspectives in Agricultural Knowledge Sharing: A Study of Women Crop Farmers in Dodoma City, Tanzania

Stella Libent; Rasel M. Madaha; Innocent M. Busindeli

doi:10.37284/eajab.7.1.1777

Stella Libent Sokoine University of Agriculture
Rasel M. Madaha Sokoine University of Agriculture
Innocent M. Busindeli Sokoine University of Agriculture

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37284/eajab.7.1.1777

Keywords: Interactive Radio Programming, Gender Perspectives, Agricultural Knowledge Sharing, Women Crop Farmers

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Abstract

This study examines the accessibility of interactive radio-based agricultural information for women crop farmers in Dodoma City, Tanzania. With a focus on face-to-face interviews, supplemented by Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and key informant interviews, the research involved 32 purposively selected individual participants. The study uses content analysis to unveil a limited interaction between radio programmers and women crop farmers in Dodoma City. Identified barriers include a scarcity of radios and mobile phones, absence of electricity for device charging, domestic responsibilities, fear of spousal disapproval, non-contact by programmers, voucher purchase costs, and language obstacles. The findings underscore the need for intervention to enhance women's engagement with radio programs. The study recommends that the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) addresses financial constraints hindering women's interaction. This aligns with the TCRA's commitment to prioritizing information consumer interests. Additionally, the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology is urged to empower schoolgirls by providing agricultural education through secondary levels. Such initiatives can foster improved access to vital agricultural information for women crop farmers in Dodoma City, contributing to their socio-economic development

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