Digital transformation is widely advocated for by international organizations and global private entities as a solution to global agricultural challenges. Although digital transformation is seen as a solution for advancing global agriculture, the effects are complex and require in-depth analysis (Lioutas et al. 2021). The vulnerability of global agriculture and the rapid rate of digital transformation necessitates research on the interplay between digital transformation and agriculture.
Previous work on digital transformation in agriculture focuses primarily on countries in the Global North with limited research on the Global South. Research conducted in the Caribbean is limited to one type of crop or digital technology. This proposal aims to address this knowledge gap by conducting a case study in Jamaica assessing the relationship between digital transformation and agriculture.
The main objectives are as follows:
- Investigate factors that drive digital technology adoption and adaptation by Jamaican farmers;
- Explore the Jamaican farmer’s perspectives on the reported effects of digital technology adoption;
- Identify innovators driving digital technology innovation in Jamaican agriculture, and explore trends and challenges influencing innovation efforts;
- Understand stakeholder’s perspectives on the digital transformation of Jamaica’s agricultural sector.
The proposal utilises a mixed-method case study to provide a deeper understanding of the interaction between agriculture and digital technologies in Jamaica. It is hypothesised that wealthy farmers will have easier access to, and benefit more from, digital technologies, whereas small and medium-sized farmers face barriers to entry that prevent the adoption of digital technologies. Additionally, it is anticipated that adaptation happens among all farmers. Digital technology innovations in the agricultural sector are being developed, but there are severe financial constraints on innovators.
