Transforming Rural Agricultural Systems in Sub-Saharan Africa:  What Role do Social Networks Play?

Mary Thuo; Alexandra Bell; Boris Bravo-Ureta

article

Transforming Rural Agricultural Systems in Sub-Saharan Africa: What Role do Social Networks Play?

Authors

- Mary Thuo
- University of Connecticut
- Alexandra Bell
- University of Connecticut
- Boris Bravo-Ureta
- University of Connecticut

Abstract

A quantitative approach is used to examine the relationship between social network ties and farmers’ decisions regarding adoption of improved groundnut varieties. The main findings are that farmers: (a) used external sources (i.e., weak ties) to learn about new improved groundnut varieties; (b) engaged in individual farm trials to gain experience (learning by doing); and (c) use both external sources and close associates (i.e., strong-ties) within their social network to acquire technical information about improved varieties.

Keywords: social networks, technology adoption, groundnuts

How to Cite: Thuo, M. , Bell, A. & Bravo-Ureta, B. (2011) “Transforming Rural Agricultural Systems in Sub-Saharan Africa: What Role do Social Networks Play?”, Adult Education Research Conference. 1(2011).