Geoinformatics for Improved Agro-Logistics Information Management, Value Chain, Marketing and Distribution of Farm Production in Urban Area of Imo State, Nigeria

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This study examines the role of geoinformatics in optimizing agro-logistics, strengthening the value Chain, marketing and distribution of farm production in urban areas of Imo State,Nigeria. Stratified sampling techniques were used in selecting responds for the study. A sample size of 150 respondents, made up of marketers, transporters, farmers, and extension agents,were randomly selected for the study. A questionnaire was administered to the respondents and complemented with oral interviews. Percentages and means presented in tabular forms were used.Results showed that geoinformatics tools available in the study area include;ArcGIS (53.3%), Google Earth Engine (92.0%), Google Maps (96.6%), MapInfo Professional (42.6%), global Mapper (88.6%), Open Data Kit (89.3%), GPS (Global Positioning System) (94.0%), remote Sensing (90.6%), GIS (Geographic Information System) (95.3%) and many others. Geoinformatics contributes to enhanced agro-logistics information by mapping out farm locations (M = 3.01), identifying specific routes for distribution (M = 2.90), use in planning and distribution networks (M = 3.04), providing real-time tracking of vehicles (M = 2.87), ensuring timely delivery of goods (M = 2.92), monitoring crop conditions (M = 2.88), Ease in tracking of goods and services (M = 3.14), Used in predicting harvest times of crops (M = 2.97), estimating crop yields (M = 2.74), supporting general logistics decisions (M = 3.17), demand forecasting (M = 2.98), Provides alternatives during difficult times (M = 2.85 reduction of harvest losses (M = 3.20), and predicting high-demand market times (M = 3.10), improves market accessibilities (M=2.67) among others.The challenges implementing geoinformatics include; high cost of technology (M = 2.05), limited technical skills (M = 2.80), poor internet commodity (M = 2.74), High maintenance cost and resistance to technology (M = 2.64), to solve the problems subsidies and financial support (M = 2.74), Capacity training (M = 2.84), data privacy and security measures among others.

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