Access to and trust of information sources on Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) among extension workers in selected regions of Tanzania

Rebeca Kachembeho; Philbert S. Nyinondi; Ester E. Mnzava

doi:10.51867/AQSSR.3.1.38

Authors

Rebeca Kachembeho Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA), Tanzania Author https://orcid.org/0009-0002-4043-0446
Philbert S. Nyinondi Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA), Tanzania Author https://orcid.org/0009-0008-6526-533X
Ester E. Mnzava Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA), Tanzania Author https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3312-3635

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51867/AQSSR.3.1.38

Keywords:

Agricultural, Biotechnology, Extension, GMO, Information Sources, Tanzania

Abstract

Modern agricultural biotechnology, particularly genetically modified organisms (GMOs), presents both opportunities and ongoing debates within agricultural development, placing extension workers at the centre of information exchange. The Source Credibility Theory is primarily a theoretical framework to guide this study. This study examined how agricultural extension workers in Tanzania access and trust sources of information on genetically modified organisms, drawing on data from a cross-sectional survey conducted in Dodoma, Geita, and Mtwara regions. The study population comprised agricultural extension workers from the selected regions. Non-probability sampling was employed to purposively select three regions, which are Dodoma, Mtwara and Geita, based on their agricultural characteristics and potential relevance to GMO-related information needs. The list of all extension workers and their contacts was obtained from the regional extension officer from every region. Within the regions, simple random sampling was applied to select extension workers, ensuring representation across districts and extension service structures. A total of 172 agricultural extension workers participated in the study. Data were collected using questionnaire surveys. The data was coded and analysed using the IBM SPSS Version 25.0. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, were used to summarise respondents’ characteristics and patterns of information source use. Inferential analyses, including chi-square tests and Cramer’s V, were conducted to examine relationships between socio-demographic variables, particularly age, education level and region and trust in information sources. The results show that extension workers rely on diverse sources of information, but their confidence is placed in sources perceived as scientifically credible, especially universities and research institutions. The most favoured methods of information dissemination are training programmes and seminars, reflecting the value of interactive and explanatory formats for complex technologies. Traditional media such as radio and television remain relevant but secondary. Socio-demographic influences are limited, with education level and regional context shaping some trust and preference patterns. The study critically suggests that reliance on credible institutions alone is insufficient unless structured training opportunities are made routine and regionally responsive, underscoring the need for sustained institutional collaboration to support informed agricultural biotechnology communication within extension systems.

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