Browsing by Author "Mukusa, Martin Makau"

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    An Exploration of Factors Hindering the Uptake of Internet Technology: A Study of Athi Ngelani Village, Machakos County
    (School of Communication, Daystar University, 2023-10) Mukusa, Martin Makau
    This study sought to explore the factors that hinder the uptake of internet technology in Athi-Ngelani village in Machakos county. While internet connectivity is available in almost all parts of Kenya, some communities have low adaptation as a result of absent prerequisites, such as infrastructure, hardware, and digital skills. Diffusion of innovation and modernization theories formed the theoretical framework for this study. The study’s objectives were to investigate Athi-Ngelani village residents’ usage of internet in communication, investigate the presence of requisite conditions, such as electricity, internet enabled mobile devices, and examine the challenges of internet access and their repercussions on Athi-Ngelani residents. To obtain the study’s sample from the target population, the study applied convenience sampling for the administration of the questionnaires and purposive sampling for the in-depth interviews. Data from survey was analysed using descriptive statistics and analysis of the interviews involved identifying key emergent themes. The major finding of the study was that there is hindrance to the uptake of internet technology in Athi-Ngelani due to challenges revolving around limited network coverage, outdated phone technology, inadequate digital infrastructure, a scarcity of mobile phones, lack of resources and affordability, and low computer literacy. The village faces difficulty accessing reliable network connections, hindering online connectivity and communication. The study recommends growth of digital education by the government and other policy makers to consider having proper internet infrastructure and connectivity rate extended to the rural areas. Furthermore, governments and policymakers should design flexible ways or incentives of communities accessing cheap internet and internet enabled phones.