The Effect of ICT on Households’ Food Security in Uganda. Evidence from Acholi Sub Region in Northern Uganda

Abstract

According to the Global Food Security Report (2017), about 108 million people are food insecure all over the world, and the situation is likely to worsen. It is estimated that by 2050, 9.1 billion people worldwide will be food insecure (FAO-UN, 2010). ICT is known for promoting food security in rural areas through access to information (Olaniyi, 2016). An investigation of ICT usage on households’ food security is therefore paramount. The study aimed at investigating the effect of ICT utilization on households’ food security in Uganda, with evidence from Acholi Sub region. The study employed a cross- sectional and descriptive research design through quantitative and qualitative research approach. Data was obtained with the help of 380 questionnaires, Focused discussion guide, documentary review and observation checklist. Results shows that on average 18.2% of the households in Acholi sub-region use ICT tools to access food security information while 31.9% do not use ICT tools for food security information. It was also found that the majority of the households’ access information through the available Local FM radios followed by mobile phones. Findings also indicate that utilization of ICT tools in accessing food security information improves households’ food security status by 38%. The study recommends more development of ICT infrastructure in the region to increase access to information for households’ food security.