Leveraging Mobile Telecommunication Technologies for Agricultural Information Access and Exchange among Small-Scale Cinnamon Growers in Galle District, Sri Lanka

Agriculture remains a crucial part of Sri Lanka's economy, with cinnamon being a significant export. This research examined how mobile telecommunication technologies were used by small-scale cinnamon growers in the Galle District, Sri Lanka because they face several challenges, including limited access to vital agricultural information. A structured questionnaire was used to conduct a quantitative survey involving 240 farmers and 10 agriculture extension officers from six divisional secretariats. The findings revealed that although mobile phone ownership was widespread, up to 97%, there was a significant digital disparity, indicating that only 36% of farmers own smartphones.
Although many people have mobile phones, their use in agriculture is still limited. The main barriers to effective utilization of mobile technologies included high costs, poor connectivity, operational difficulties, and language barriers. The research emphasized the importance of making mobile telecommunication technologies more affordable and accessible through infrastructure development, localized content, integrated services, peer-to-peer learning, and training programs to enhance their adoption and effectiveness. Additionally, there is a need for improved digital literacy programs and the expansion of mobile-based agricultural services to support the resilience and productivity of small-scale cinnamon farmers. This study indicated that addressing these challenges could significantly improve agricultural productivity, decision-making processes, and the socio-economic development of small-scale cinnamon growers in Sri Lanka.