Information and communication technology as a strategic approach in information dissemination at the Kenya forest research institute

Abstract

Kenya has been grappling with many issues related to food security. This has seen some parts of the country experiencing periodic droughts year in year out. The world is also experiencing changing weather conditions due to factors such as global warming and climate change. This has mainly been blamed on declining levels of forest cover, as trees have been cut down to make room for growing populations. Kenya’s forest cover stands at below 10%. Trees are viewed as a major solution to environmental challenges. It is for such reasons that the Kenya Forestry Research Institute carries out research in forestry and allied natural resources. Beyond carrying out research, there is a need for the research findings to be disseminated to the public, for it to be beneficial to the populace and to meet the purpose of the research. There are various methods used to disseminate forest research information. Information and communication technology provides a mechanism through which research information can be disseminated in a speedy, efficient, effective and reliable manner. This study sought to establish the nature of Information and Communication Technology as a tool for information dissemination, and to determine the extent to which Information and Communication Technology has been applied by the Kenya Forestry Research Institute for information dissemination purposes. The study collected primary data using an interview of individuals in policy making positions at the Kenya Forestry Research Institute. The study found that, there is application of information and communication technology at the Kenya Forestry Research Institute, and individuals at the policy making level have adequate training to use and implement information and communication technology for information dissemination. The study concluded that, while information and communication technology has been employed at the Kenya Forestry Research Institute, the avenues it presents for disseminating research information have not been exploited optimally. The study recommended an increase in the use of information and communication technology for disseminating research information.