Why is record keeping beneficial for small-scale farmers?
It empowers small-scale farmers. They improve their numeracy and develop monitoring skills. It gives them a handle on what they put into their farm and what they get out.
Why are small scale farmers reluctant to share their data with researchers?
They don’t trust the research process. It is very important that researchers build trust with the farmers. This is so that they understand that there is no risk to them.
How does the DIVAGRI project protect the small-scale farmers’ data?
The names of the farmers participating are encoded and not accessible beyond the research team. DIVAGRI will not identify them individually but will refer to their data collectively. All researchers sign a non-disclosure agreement. The farmers can at any time withdraw their consent to participate and then their data will be removed from the project database.
What are the barriers to record keeping for small-scale farmers?
It can be time-consuming and requires some work and effort. But it is not too difficult. One just needs to develop a habit of collecting it. It should not take more than 15 minutes to fill in the input and output costs and it is not done everyday.
Tips on how to keep records for small-scale farmers?
We have provided a booklet to assist the farmers with capturing their inputs and outputs. They need to ask questions if they don’t understand anything. They should engage the DIVAGRI researchers to assist them and also the youth. There are also Master Trainers on the DIVAGRI project that are being trained.
Why is the data important to the DIVAGRI project?
The DIVAGRI project needs the data to understand the circumstances of small-scale farmers and the effectiveness of the bio-based technologies. It will tell us if our technologies are helping them improve their productivity.
How will the small farmers benefit from the record keeping on the DIVAGRI project?
The DIVAGRI researchers will give feedback on the data, showing the farmers how they can improve their productivity with the bio-based technologies and where they can save on costs. It will also assist them with developing bankable business plans to use in applying for assistance from government or other agricultural funding agencies.
