Communication Networks as Resource for Development
Florian Soyka · 2003
From the network point of view an informal advice network of urban farmers in Kampala / Uganda has been analysed by network analysis on individual, group and entire network level. This case study took place during February and December 2002 in a periurban parish in Kampala*. Within this inter - personal communication network farmers shared information about problems with pests in crop production and gave advice about pest management strategies or methods of treatments. Results show that the advice network of farmers is weakly connected and divided into three components. On individual level five opinion leaders with special knowledge in pest management and influence could be identified. But the share of information is limited to two different neighbourhoods and within those to small groups of farmers with similar interests in crop production. Multiplex co-operative relations between farmers with high and intensive exchange of information in pest management took place seldom. Therefore information flow is sub-optimal, the usage of network linkages as individual resources is limited and could be a sign for existing competitive social contexts or obstacles. For extension work internal resources should be activated in the network, rules for individual contributions should be discussed, communication processes moderated so that an atmosphere of trust could generate in this network as a prerequisite for intensive information exchange. Selective and attractive informational incentives should be provided to increase individual contributions and information flow within the network. Networking processes on every level should be encouraged, common and co-operative strategies in pest management should be discussed as well as sustainable pest management strategies and strategies which include the poorest farmers.