Research Brief on Use of Radio in Biotech Communication

I heard it on the radio: Challenges and opportunities in engaging farmers on agricultural biotechnology through the media is the first issue of Research Brief published by the International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications (ISAAA) AfriCenter.

The publication is based on a study entitled Assessing utility of radio in communicating agricultural biotechnology in Africa: Case studies of Burkina Faso and Kenya conducted by Africenter and partners from 2008 to 2011. The two countries have recorded increased activity and growth in research, development and policy formulation in agricultural biotechnology over the last 5 years.

The findings emphasize the need to address the issue of language and terminologies for effective use of vernacular radio stations, the most popular media with rural communities. This would enhance the confidence of the radio journalists and experts, thus improve the quality of agri-biotechnology communication programs. Availability and access to other ICTs such as mobile phones, internet and support services like batteries and/or electricity highly reinforces farmer interactions with experts and radio presenters for informed choices on the technology.

For more information contact AfriCenter at africenter@isaaa.org. You can download the Research Brief at http://www.isaaa.org/resources/publications/researchbrief/what_role_for_radio/download/default.asp