Evaluating the impact of video-based agricultural extension on women’s empowerment in northern Uganda: A mixed-methods study

In Uganda, the agricultural industry is essential to the economy and livelihood of many individuals. However, women farmers in Uganda face barriers to profitable agricultural production including access to quality inputs, appropriate infrastructure, land ownership, markets, extension services, and anti-women biases in the public and private sector. While agricultural extension has been present in Uganda since the late 1800s, it lacks effectiveness and has gender disparities, requiring innovative approaches. Information communication technologies have shown promise to supporting agricultural extension services. This study evaluates a program designed for women small-holder farmers in Uganda to receive agricultural extension services via video-based agricultural extension. Through a convergent mixed-methods approach, it examines how information communication technologies, specifically smartphones and video-based extension services, can support women empowerment in Northern Uganda. Key findings suggest video-based agricultural extension increased self-efficacy within the sample. Additionally, participants felt empowered and respected because of their increase in agricultural knowledge and access to technology. Recommendations for future programs include training and check-in components, incorporate a variety of video topics, increase the amount of time participants have access to video-based extension, and explore community-based approaches.