Mobile Platform Capabilities and Agricultural Success: Empirical Evidence from Sunflower Farmers in Tanzania

Abstract

This study examines the impact of mobile platform capabilities on agricultural success among sunflower farmers, drawing on Human Capital Theory and Diffusion of Innovation Theory. It highlights the roles of farmers' innovativeness, technical skills, and personal relationships in driving their agricultural success. Survey data collected from sunflower farmers were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings indicate that the three aspects of mobile platform capabilities (innovativeness, technical skills, and personal relationships) positively and significantly influence the success of sunflower farming. These results suggest that mobile technologies enhance farmers' abilities to innovate, improve their skills, and foster stronger networks, all of which contribute to greater agricultural success. The study recommends that farmers be given further support and training to leverage mobile platforms effectively. For policymakers and practitioners, the findings highlight the importance of incorporating mobile technologies into agricultural policies and development initiatives to boost productivity. This study inspires future researchers to examine other economic sectors, methodological approaches, and contextual settings. To deepen their understanding of the broader impact of mobile platforms.