Appropriation of mobile phones in the rural African societies: Case study of the Fulani pastoralists in Northern Benin

Abstract

The study aims to analyze the appropriation of mobile phones among the Fulani Pastoralists in the Northern Benin. A multidimensional approach of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) was adopted. In total, 380 Fulani pastoralists were surveyed. Data was collected through a questionnaire on the total number of weekly calls, the socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents, and the perceived usefulness and the perceived ease of use. A 5-point Likert scale was used to measure the perceived usefulness and the perceived ease of use considering the multiple dimensions identified. The linear regression model is used for the analysis of determinants of the total number of weekly calls. Results show a dual appropriation of mobile phone with regard to its usage for communicative function and/or distractive function. These results suggest that the mobile phone-based livestock advisory services using pre-recorded audio and video materials are promising within these herders’ communities.