International Journal of Applied Food Science and Nutrition
ICT and Artificial Intelligence Adoption in Agriculture: Implications for Household Food Security and Sustainable Development in a Developing Economy-Evidence from Nigeria
Abstract
Boniface Umoh E and Joel Emeka Aroh
Food security and environmentally friendly farming techniques are in dire need of creative solutions as the world’s agricultural landscape faces previously unheard-of difficulties brought on by population increase, climate change, and changing consumer demands. This study looks at how ICT and AI in agriculture support sustainable development and food security in Nigeria. It examines how household food security and ICT/AI use are mediated by young employment, agricultural AI adoption, and farmers’ ICT use. The study employed a survey research methodology. 300 urban farmers in the main Ebonyi State cities of Abakaliki, Afikpo, Onueke, Uburu, and Effium participated in a census approach to collect data. SWOT and PESTEL analyses were then utilized to give strategic insights. An 83.3 percent return rate was obtained from the 250 copies that were completed. The results show that while youth empowerment has a substantial impact on the association between food safety and ICT and IA, employing ICT and AI to provide access to markets, information, and support services considerably boosts household food security. It recommends the dissemination agents receive training in the usage of ICT platforms and AI technologies so they can provide farmers with accurate and timely advice.