Effect of Information and Communication Technology Adoption on the Livelihoods of Rural Citizens of Kisii County, Kenya

Abstract

Information and Communication Technologies (lCTs) are considered as important tools in , empowering rural citizens with the ability to communicate instantaneously thereby facilitating rural development process and information needs. leTs are now recognized as one of the key sources of growth and competitiveness in the global economy. Despite all this, the livelihoods of many ICT users are still below the poverty line. To add, in developing countries, the potential of lCT adoption is still not understood. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of lCTs on the livelihood of rural citizens in Kisii County, Kenya. Specifically, the study sought to determine the level of access to ICT by rural citizens; establish the major problems faced by rural citizens in Kisii County in accessing ICT facilities and determine the influence of access to ICTs on the livelihoods of rural citizens. The study was guided by a conceptual framework where ICT adoption was the independent variable and Livelihoods was the dependent variable. Both correlation and case study designs were used. The population of the study was 455 rural residents ofKisii County who have adopted ICT in the businesses. Purposive sampling of 137 respondents based on their leT skills was applied. The main instrument for data collection was the questionnaire. Analysis revealed that the correlation between leTs and livelihood assets; financial capital, human capital and social capital were found' to be 0.719, 0.681 and 0.610 respectively with a significance of 0.000 (depicting a significant positive relationship). The coefficient of determination was found to be 0.517, 0.464 and 0.373 meaning that ICTs which is an independent variable influenced up to 5l.7%, 46.4% and 37.3% of livelihood assets; financial, human and social capital respectively. It was concluded that increasing access to K'Ts opens gates to information which further accelerates access of resources and opportunities that generate more resources hence improving livelihoods. The study recommends that Government should increase K'T awareness campaigns and participate in meeting up part of leT costs to foster ICT growth in rural areas. The study may assist in policy formulation on issues related to ICTs and their effect on livelihoods of rural citizens. Further, the research may provide additional knowledge in the area of ICTs and its effect on the livelihoods of people.