Background 

There is evidence that mobile phones can increase crop yields. However, the mechanisms behind this still need to be fully understood.

Research objective 

This study measures mobile phone ownership's direct and indirect effects on maize yields by facilitating better access to extension services in Tanzania. This study also explores the gender-related differences in the impacts of mobile phones.

Methods

This study uses panel data from the Living Standards Measurement Study–Integrated Surveys on Agriculture (LSMS-ISA) and a correlated random effects model.

Results (or expected results) 

This study suggests that mobile phone owners are more likely to use agricultural extension services than non-owners. Further, mobile phone ownership improves maize yields of owners by at least 13 percentage points (pp). By increasing access to extension services, mobile ownership is linked to a significant indirect benefit on maize yield, accounting for about 8 pp of its total effect on yields. The study also uncovers a larger impact of mobile phone ownership on extension services and maize yields in male-headed farm households.

Conclusion

The results support the effectiveness of investments in mobile phone-based extension services, leading to broader extension coverage and better agricultural productivity. Therefore, the research advocates for policymakers and development partners to further promote and invest in such initiatives, which could considerably enhance the livelihoods of farmers in Tanzania.